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| Apple may release new versions of AirPods and AirPods Pro |
Apple plans to update its AirPods over the next year to capitalize on the success of products that have become a major source of growth, according to a Bloomberg report Monday.
The agency quoted people familiar with the matter who said that the tech giant is developing two new models, the third generation of low-spec AirPods and the second version of the advanced AirPods Pro.
These models are used with other new audio devices from Apple, such as HomePod mini and upcoming wired headphones. The agency said that Apple is considering launching another smart amplifier that acts as an intermediary between (HomePod) and (HomePod mini).
Bloomberg reports that the updated low-spec AirPods are similar in design to the current AirPods Pro, but with a shorter barrel and interchangeable earphones. Apple also hopes to extend battery life. The agency also cited sources saying that the model will not offer AirPods Pro features such as noise reduction.
With the new AirPods Pro, Apple's goal is to remove the short legs that are currently protruding from the ground and make them more compact. The design is currently being tested and it has a round shape that can better cover the user's ears, similar to the latest designs from Samsung and Google.
According to Bloomberg sources, it has proven difficult to eliminate noise and integrate wireless antennas and microphones into the smaller AirPods Pro case during development, which could lead to undeveloped designs. Optimization as soon as the product is ready.
Apple has been talking internally about the new, cheaper AirPods that were launched in the first half of next year. The company is also planning to ship new wireless chipsets for these two models. Luxshare Precision Industry and Goertek are expected to handle most of the new headphones production.
AirPods, originally mocked for their design, have become one of Apple's biggest successes of the past few years. The apparel, home, and accessories division (including AirPods) recorded sales in the last quarter of $ 6.5 billion, up more than 70% from the previous two years. Earplugs could see further growth in sales soon. Because Apple has stopped adding headphones to the new iPhone.
Apple is currently selling low-end AirPods for $ 159 and AirPods Pro for $ 249. The first version of AirPods was launched in 2016 and received the latest update in March 2019. The company released AirPods Pro in October last year.