What to Expect from Apple’s September Event
We are just days away from Apple’s big annual September event, and the rumors surrounding the iPhone 16 — along with other potential announcements — are flying. But if you’re in the market for a new pair of AirPods, you’ll soon have a few more choices. According to a new report, Apple is planning on releasing two different models in the new AirPods 4 line that will likely be announced at the September 9 Apple event.
Two New AirPods 4 Models on the Way
To be clear, this product launch would release a brand new middle tier of AirPods, as the higher-priced AirPods are not a replacement for the higher tier AirPods Pro. Apple currently still sells the older second-generation AirPods as an entry-level pair of wireless earbuds. The current generation AirPods 3 acts as a mid-tier device. With the AirPods 4, it appears Apple is looking to make the two levels in the AirPods line official and current with two new releases to replace both the AirPods 2 and AirPods 3.
According to Bloomberg’s Apple insider Mark Gurman, both AirPods 4 models have been redesigned to look more like the AirPods Pro. The new AirPods 4 should have much shorter stems than the current generation of AirPods, similar to the AirPods Pro. Gurman also reports that the AirPods 4 will have improved audio quality and a new charging case. Both models will drop the lightning cable and have USB-C charging instead.
Furthermore, Gurman reveals that Apple has fixed a software bug that was causing battery drain issues in AirPods. This fix will be implemented in the AirPods 4, ensuring better battery performance for users.
So, what sets the two upcoming AirPods 4 models apart? Gurman states that the higher-end AirPods 4, which can be considered the mid-tier AirPods when accounting for the AirPods Pro, will come with a premium charging case featuring a built-in speaker. This speaker will make it easier for users to find their AirPods using Apple’s Find My feature. However, it remains unclear if the case speaker will serve any other purpose. The mid-tier AirPods 4 will also include noise cancellation capabilities that rival the AirPods Pro, while the entry-level model will lack this feature.
Future AirPods Updates
In addition to the AirPods 4, Apple is reportedly working on a new feature for AirPods called Yodel, although it may not be ready in time for the upcoming event. Yodel is said to introduce hearing health features that turn AirPods into a replacement for hearing aids. It will also include a hearing test feature.
However, if you were hoping for updates to the AirPods Pro or the AirPods Max headphones, Gurman suggests not to expect anything at this year’s Apple event. Instead, a new AirPods Pro with a new design and improved noise cancellation is expected to be released next year. Additionally, an update for the AirPods Max with new colors and USB-C charging is also anticipated in the future.
Overall, Apple’s September event is shaping up to be an exciting one for AirPods enthusiasts. With the introduction of two new AirPods 4 models and the potential for innovative features like Yodel, Apple continues to push the boundaries of wireless earbud technology. Whether you’re in the market for a mid-tier or entry-level pair, the AirPods 4 lineup is set to deliver enhanced audio quality, improved battery performance, and a more sleek and stylish design.