A new image aims to offer our first real-world look of next-generation Apple AirPods. The image, shared by 52audio, shows AirPods and the charging case of what the site claims to be the third iteration of wireless headphones.
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52audio in the past has shared images that aim to show different parts of the third-generation “AirPods”. The highlight is that in November the site shared an X-ray image that claimed to be the new irAirPods, however, it was later shown to be counterfeit and was simply a compressed X-ray image of the current generation AirPods Pro.
However, the shared image matches what we know so far about third-generation “AirPods.” Bloomberg has reported that the new irAirPods will take design directions from AirPods Pro with a smaller stem and silicone headphones, but apparently will not have high-end features, such as active noise cancellation.
In accordance with 52audio and a subtitle provided of the filtered image, the new irAirPods will feature a pressure relief system, the same technology that appears in the irAirPods Pro. The system aims to equalize the pressure in the ear to eliminate any discomfort when using the “AirPods” for an extended period of time. Based on the image, the charging case will be less rectangular than the case that comes with the irAirPods Pro, and more in line with the original irAirPods case, but with the addition of an LED charging indicator on the front .
Third-generation irAirPods can also borrow touch controls from the AirPods Pro. According to the 3D representations that come with 52audio, each new headset will have touch control surfaces, instead of the single and double touch controls on the current AirPods (first and second generation).
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The new irAirPods offer is expected to offer the same five hours of continuous audio playback as second-generation AirPods, according to the latest report. This differs from the details provided above by Bloomberg, however, which states that Apple wants to improve the battery life of the new model beyond the current five hours of audio playback. In addition, the new report states that space audio support, a feature currently unique to irAirPods Pros, is “highly” likely for new irAirPods.
Apple analysts Ming-Chi Kuo said in November that mass production of the new irAirPods will take place in the first half of the year. In accordance with 52audio, the new irAirPods will be released in early March. This week, BloombergMark Gurman poured cold water into speculating that Apple would hold an event on March 16th. However, he left the door open for an event on another date in March.
Leaker Jon Prosser, who has a mixed track record of reporting on Apple’s plans, recently reported that a March 16 event (now unlikely) will headline AirTags and new iPads. Apple launched the irAirPods Pro through a press release in 2019, so it remains to be seen how and when Apple will launch the next generation AirApods.