According to Gurman, Apple will release “cheap” AirPods with noise cancellation this year

Since the presentation of the new MacBook Air M3 a couple of weeks ago, there have been doubts whether we will see new products this spring. While all rumors point to the imminent release of new iPads, the main question is whether Apple will take advantage of this round of updates. bring new AirPods models to the market.

Gourmet through his Newsletter Turn onclears up doubts: Apple has everything it needs to launch two new AirPods models, although they won’t arrive in the spring. And when we talk about two new models, it’s actually an update to two of the best-selling products in Apple’s audio lineup.

In this sense, everything points to the fact that this year we will see an update of the AirPods 3, although very different from those on other occasions: they will be two different models, both below the AirPods Pro in terms of technical specifications. the main characters of this installation, which will come to replace the current AirPods 3 and AirPods 2.

Two AirPods models, including one with noise cancellation

According to Mark Gurman, the updated versions will arrive under the code names B768(E) and B768(M), which are two different models of the same devices with different characteristics: the model with the letter E will be the “entry” model, and the second model with letter E. therefore , will come to the market at a lower price. The other, which includes the letter M, indicates a “mid-range” model, both below the AirPods Pro.

What they both will have in common is the specifications: they will have new designs and USB-C charging cases. However, the functions will be different: M version, mid-level, will have active noise cancellation and Find My speakers in the casewhich will make it easier to find the product if you lose it, similar to what the AirPods Pro offer, but without the same sound quality.

And when will they arrive? Well, already in October. According to Gurman, Apple is also planning several major software updates related to AirPods, such as part of iOS 18 release this fallso running them simultaneously would be the most ideal option.

Nothing is known about prices. Given the upgrades that have occurred in recent years, it makes sense that the entry-level AirPods would be placed within the current AirPods 3 lineup, with the mid-range models moving up a notch between the AirPods 3 MagSafe and AirPods Pro.

For now, yes, it doesn’t look like they will be a precursor to those rumors that pointed to AirPods with health features, but they will have a special role at the launch of iOS 18. Perhaps also as part of Apple’s efforts in the field of artificial intelligence.