Apple Reportedly Gearing Up to Refresh AirPods Lineup in 2024

• Next-generation AirPods Max to feature USB-C charging and new color options.
• Fourth-generation entry-level and mid-tier AirPods to come with a new design and possibly noise-cancelling features.
• Minor updates were introduced to AirPods Pro last year, with another update expected in 2025.

Apple’s AirPods have become a cultural mainstay since their debut in 2016, a common sight at least in the US and now recently in other countries as well.

The wireless earbuds have not just been a trendsetter but also a significant revenue generator for Apple, requiring continual innovations to sustain consumer interest.

According to a recent report by Bloomberg, the tech giant is planning to revamp several versions of its AirPods models next year.

This move is part of Apple’s strategy to keep its products updated and cater to an evolving consumer base.

The high-end AirPods Max, priced at $549, are expected to receive a refresh that includes a USB-C charging port and a range of new color options.

The entry-level and mid-tier models, currently priced at $129 and $169 respectively, are slated to be succeeded by fourth-generation iterations featuring a redesigned structure, truncated stems, and possibly noise-canceling capabilities for select versions.

Last year, Apple’s AirPods Pro, costing $249, received minor updates and introduced a model featuring a USB-C port this fall. Another update for the AirPods Pro line is expected to roll out by 2025.

This past autumn, a software feature was added to the AirPods Pro using artificial intelligence.

This feature automatically lowers the noise cancelation function when the user speaks, making it more convenient to keep the earbuds in all day.

Revenue from AirPods is reported under Apple’s Wearables, Home, and Accessories division, which disclosed $41 billion in revenue during the 2022 fiscal year.

This figure also accounts for sales of the Apple Watch.

With the impending launch of Apple’s Vision Pro VR/AR headsets in 2024 and beyond, it remains to be seen how the updated AirPods will integrate into this new ecosystem.

Currently, only the second-generation AirPods Pro have been cited in conjunction with the Vision Pro, both devices being equipped with the H2 chip.

FAQs

What changes can we expect in the new AirPods Max?

The new AirPods Max are expected to come with a USB-C charging port and a range of fresh color options.

What about the entry-level and mid-tier AirPods?

Both the entry-level and mid-tier models are set to be replaced by fourth-generation versions. These new models will feature a redesigned form, shorter stems, and may include noise-canceling capabilities in certain versions.

When are updates expected for the AirPods Pro?

The AirPods Pro received minor changes last year and are anticipated to have another update around 2025.

How do AirPods sales affect Apple’s overall revenue?

Sales from AirPods are included in Apple’s Wearables, Home, and Accessories division, which accounted for $41 billion in revenue for the fiscal year 2022.