Apple will unveil its third-generation AirPods true wireless earbuds during its “California Streaming” event on Tuesday, September 14, says well-connected Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The AirPods 3 are expected to feature a new design similar to the AirPods Pro, but lacking the “Pro” features. Kuo’s remarks come in an investors note shared by MacRumors.
Kuo says Apple could price the third-generation AirPods higher than the current second-generation AirPods, keeping the existing model in the line. Or, Apple may reduce the price of the existing AirPods and replace their spot in the lineup with the third-generation AirPods at the current $199 price point.
We have two scenarios for AirPods pricing: 1) AirPods 3 price is higher than existing AirPods 2, and AirPods 2 price remains the same, or 2) AirPods 3 price is the same as existing AirPods 2 and AirPods 2 price cuts. In scenario one, the market will be neutral on the AirPods announcement. In scenario two, the AirPods announcement will be better than the market expectation for supply chain shipments.
While the third-generation AirPods are expected to share AirPods Pro’s design language, the jury is out as to where the new AirPods design will include silicone ear tips.
In addition to the third-gen AirPods, Apple will also unveil the new iPhone 13 lineup and the Apple Watch Series 7 at its “California Streaming” media event, to be held on Tuesday, September 14.