Apple AirPods 4 Release
Apple AirPods, including both the pro and non-pro variants, have secured their place as some of the most sought-after earbuds in the market since their inaugural launch in 2016. The anticipation surrounding the upcoming Apple AirPods 4 has fans buzzing with excitement.
Apple AirPods 4 Launch Projections and Rumors
The 3rd generation AirPods made their debut in October 2021. Speculations regarding the 4th generation model are primarily based on Apple’s historical two-year product cycle, considering the timeline from the 2nd to the 3rd generation upgrades.
Despite the eagerness among enthusiasts, Apple has remained tight-lipped about the specifics, leaving us to rely on a blend of industry analyst insights and our own imaginations.
Apple AirPods 4
Recent rumors suggest that Apple is gearing up to unveil two distinct AirPods 4 models – a standard version and a more budget-friendly alternative. Noteworthy industry analysts such as Jeff Pu, Ming-Chi Kuo, and Mark Gurman have lent credibility to this speculation.
While details on the differentiation between the two versions remain scarce, Bloomberg analyst Gurman has hinted at the likelihood of the standard AirPods 4 featuring noise cancellation and a case with Find My alert functionality, features presumably absent in the cheaper alternative.
Design Expectations for Apple AirPods 4
In the absence of official confirmation from Apple, the possibility of significant design overhauls in the AirPods 4 remains uncertain. Gurman’s forecast suggests that the 4th generation earbuds will amalgamate design elements from both the AirPods 3 and the AirPods Pro 2.
Gurman further predicts that the new design will offer an enhanced and more comfortable fit compared to previous iterations. However, the inclusion of interchangeable ear tips, a prerequisite for active noise cancellation, seems improbable.
Similarly, the iconic white finish synonymous with Apple’s AirPods is unlikely to undergo any alterations. Additional color variants, a feature seen in the AirPods Max 2, are not anticipated with the AirPods 4.
Might Expect
As of now, there are no substantial leaks or credible rumors regarding the features of the AirPods 4. While enthusiasts have expressed desires for volume control integration akin to the AirPods Pro 2, concrete evidence supporting such additions is lacking.
However, the transition to a USB-C charging case seems inevitable, given the EU’s regulatory stance on standardized ports. Additionally, Gurman’s hints regarding the potential incorporation of temperature sensors point towards future advancements in AirPods technology.
Software Enhancements
Optimism surrounds the prospect of improved battery life in the AirPods 4, attributed to the anticipated integration of Apple’s H2 chip. The H2 chip, already present in the AirPods Pro 2, supports Bluetooth 5.3, offering enhanced stability and efficiency compared to Bluetooth 5.0.
Release Date
Conflicting reports regarding the release timeline of the AirPods 4 abound. Ming-Chi Kuo suggests a shipping commencement in the latter half of 2024, while Gurman hints at production gearing up in May.
A September launch, possibly alongside the iPhone 16, seems plausible, considering Gurman’s assertion that the AirPods 4 release will be a monumental event for Apple. Alternatively, Jeff Pu hints at a Q4 2024 release, potentially coinciding with the introduction of the new AirPods Max.
Price
With the prospect of a second AirPods 4 variant on the horizon, predicting pricing becomes challenging.
While the AirPods 3 retailed at $179, potential pricing for the forthcoming models remains uncertain.