According to the latest report, Apple may introduce two versions of AirPods 4 with different price points. Additionally, the company will discontinue the sale of AirPods 2 next year. Currently, there's little difference between AirPods 2 and , except in design. Gurman suggests this causes confusion among customers, leading many to choose the older but cheaper version.
Apple might launch AirPods 4 next year.With the upcoming AirPods 4 model, Gurman indicates a new design resembling a fusion of standard AirPods and AirPods Pro with a shorter stem. The expected fit will be improved, but it's unclear whether Apple will add silicon eartips.
The redesigned charging case for AirPods 4 will include a speaker for Find My alerts and a USB-C port instead of a Lightning port. The premium version of AirPods will feature active noise cancellation (ANC), a capability limited to AirPods Pro until now.
In the upcoming software update scheduled for next year, Apple will introduce a hearing aid feature, allowing AirPods to function as an over-the-counter (OTC) alternative for traditional hearing aids. Following FDA approval in 2022 for OTC hearing aid options, Apple is poised to market AirPods as an option for individuals with hearing impairments. Gurman notes that 'Apple' also plans to provide hearing tests for AirPods users to determine their auditory health.
AirPods 4 is set to debut in 2024, likely around September when Apple unveils new iPhone models. Apple is also gearing up for a new version of AirPods Max next year. Stay tuned for more updates!
Explore more: Everything we know so far about AirPods 4