Apple’s third-generation AirPods will likely launch alongside the Cupertino firm’s iPhone 13 lineup in September, says a report from DigiTimes. The report makes the claim, after hearing from “sources familiar with the matter.”
The DigiTimes report jibes with earlier reports that production of the AirPods 3 will begin in August. DigiTimes says that shipments of certain AirPods components have already begun in “small volumes” and will ramp up in the third and fourth quarters of the year.
The third-generation AirPods will be the first update of the standard AirPods since March 2019. That was a modest update that added wireless charging support, “Hey Siri” support, and improved internals.
Images that allegedly show the new AirPods 3 earbuds show a design that jibes with most leaks and rumors. Apple’s third-generation AirPods are said to adopt a design similar to the Cupertino firm’s current AirPods Pro. They are expected to feature shorter stems and feature silicone ear tips for a customizable fit. However, they would lack some of the “Pro” features, such as Active Noise Cancellation.
Apple’s AirPods lineup has dominated the wireless earphone market, shipping an estimated 110 million AirPods and beats headphones during 2020, much more than any other maker. However, there is plenty of competition out there, as several makers are offering similar wireless earbuds, but at a lower price point.