New images, shared by 52audio, allegedly offer a look at Apple’s next-generation AirPods. The images show both the AirPods and the charging case that the website claims are the upcoming third version of Apple’s popular wireless earbuds.
While 52audio has in the past shared alleged images of third-gen AirPods that have been proven to be faked, the image shared by them on Sunday does jibe with what we know so far about the third-generation AirPods.
Bloomberg has reported that the upcoming AirPods will include design cues taken from the AirPods Pro, including a smaller stem and silicone eartips. However, the new earbuds are said to lack high-end “Pro” features such as Active Noise Cancelation.
52audio claims the new AirPods will feature a pressure-relieving system, the same technology featured in the AirPods Pro. The system is designed to equalize pressure in a user’s ear to remove discomfort from using the AirPods for a prolonged amount of time.
The photo also indicates that the new AirPods’ charging case will be less rectangular than the AirPods Pro, and will include an LED charging indicator on the front.
The 3D renders provided by 52audio indicate that the new earbuds will feature touch control surfaces, in place of the single and double-tap controls on the current AirPods.
While leaker Jon Prosser had reported that a March 16 event would feature new Apple products, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has pooh-poohed that specific date but left the door open for an event some other date in March.