Apple Likely to Keep AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) Available Alongside New 4th Gen Models.
Apple is reportedly gearing up to release its fourth-generation AirPods later this year, as per information from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The upcoming AirPods (4th Generation) will reportedly arrive in two variants, potentially phasing out the older AirPods (2nd Generation) from the market. This move could also lead to a price reduction for the AirPods (3rd Generation), which are currently priced at Rs. 20,900 in India. The new models are expected to cater to different user preferences, providing a broader range of options in Apple’s wireless audio lineup.
According to Gurman’s latest Power On newsletter, which is shared in collaboration with 9to5Mac, Apple is set to introduce two distinct models under the AirPods (4th Generation) banner. The first model will be an entry-level option designed to replace the current AirPods (2nd Generation), which have remained popular among users looking for a basic but reliable wireless audio solution. The second model will serve as an upgrade to the AirPods (3rd Generation), which debuted in 2021 with an open-ear design and improved audio features compared to its predecessor.
Gurman suggests that Apple will retain the AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) within its product lineup, ensuring that it continues to cater to customers who prioritize premium audio quality and advanced features. This model, which was introduced in September 2022, remains the flagship offering with Apple’s H2 chip, enabling features like Adaptive Audio, advanced active noise cancellation (ANC), and an enhanced Transparency mode. Retaining the AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) allows Apple to maintain a comprehensive range of products for various price points and use cases.
Gurman also points out that both of the new TWS models will sport the same design. The only difference between them will be ANC, where the entry-level model will lack the feature while the mid-tier model will be equipped with the feature. It is currently unclear whether Apple will continue to use the open back design for its upcoming devices, if the more expensive version is to offer support for ANC.
The third-generation AirPods Pro which will replace the currently available AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) is likely to get an update at a later date. While no details about this update have been mentioned, we can speculate that some Apple Intelligence features might show up on Apple’s top-tier ANC earphones, which could allow it to compete with Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 TWS headset that is equipped with Google’s Tensor A1 chip.
Another update to the new buds would involve Apple’s transition to a USB Type-C port. While the AirPods (2nd Generation) and AirPods (3rd Generation) models still use Apple’s proprietary Lightning ports, Apple’s AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) was updated with a modern USB Type-C port, which is also expected to arrive on the new AirPods 4 models, in compliance with regulations in various regions, including the EU. It is currently unclear whether the 4th generation AirPods models will support MagSafe charging .