Apple Developing Revamped Third-Gen AirPods and Second-Gen AirPods Pro for as Early as 2021

Apple is developing an updated AirPod for the third-generation of its wireless earbuds. Additionally, the second-generation AirPods Pro will likely follow in as early as 2021 as the company has been seeing growing success from its wireless earbud offerings.

Apple is working to develop the two new models for next year, according to Bloomberg who spoke to people familiar with the matter. The third-generation AirPods are described to be keeping the same aesthetic seen in the current AirPods Pro. This means the new model will feature shorter stems and replaceable eartips. Apple is reportedly looking to improve battery life. However, based on sources, the new AirPods will not have Pro-specific features such as noise cancellations.

As for the second-generation AirPods Pro, sources have said Apple is looking to eliminate the stem completely. The new design will then have a more rounded design, comparable to wireless earbuds from the likes of Samsung, and Google. However, challenges revolving around noise cancellation and antenna integration may see to it that the design isn’t as ambitious as envisioned.

On top of the revamped designs of the AirPods and AirPods Pro, Bloomberg has reported that Apple may be developing an entry-level set of earbuds. The new model is expected to release in the first half of 2021. Both Luxshare Precision Industry Co. and Goertek Inc. are reportedly tasked with production.

However, with news of the new earbuds in the works, Bloomberg notes that the over-ear headphones rumoured to be dubbed AirPods Studio are facing a delay. The device was expected to hit production weeks ago, however, a complication regarding the device’s headband being too tight has set Apple back.

Initially, the AirPods Studio was to have large touchpads on each side of the headphones. However, those are said to have been scaled back. Apple also envisioned the device to have interchangeable headbands. Though, that may end up on the cutting room floor due to complications.

Finally, the report indicates that Apple could develop a new HomePod that is sized and priced between the HomePod and the HomePod Mini. The report states that it’s still uncertain if this product will see the light of day or if Apple will reduce the price of the original HomePod.