We hope that Apple will launch a new design of its basic AirPods soon, and what they say are renderings of “AirPods 3” were shared today.
The design of the AirPods not Pro has remained unchanged since its launch in 2016, but it is now clear that this should change this year …
Background
Apple launched AirPods for the first time in December 2016, and the distinctive design quickly became an ubiquitous sight around the world. The long stem was one of the design elements that made them so instantly recognizable.
A 2nd generation model was launched in 2019, adding wireless charging and support for Hey Siri, but the design remained unchanged. Later that year, Apple added AirPods Pro to the line, with Active Noise Canceling.
AirPods Pro, also launched in 2019, were easily distinguished from previous models thanks to shorter rods, and it is this design that should make the transition to the next version of standard AirPods. This was first reported by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and later confirmed by Bloomberg.
The design of the updated basic AirPods will be similar to the current AirPods Pro, gaining a shorter stem and replaceable ear tips. Apple is also looking to improve battery life. This model, however, will not have advanced features of AirPods Pro, such as noise cancellation.
AirPods 3 design and visuals
We got our first look at the design of AirPods 3 last month, and new renderers were shared today by GizmoChina.
Before launch, we put our hands on a new set of renderings of AirPods 3 from vendors. The design presented in the renderings is probably the final version that will be launched on the market for everyone to buy.
The design is practically in line with previous rendering leaks, reminiscent of the AirPods Pro design. It looks like the AirPods 3 will have a shorter stem and will come with replaceable ear tips, similar to what we saw with the company’s AirPods Pro.
But, as AirPods mimic the design of AirPods Pro, we expect a redesign of the latter, with reports suggesting that Apple can eliminate the rod completely. The report, however, warns that this is still not certain.
Not everyone will be happy with the design of the AirPods 3. A poll from the reader found that more than 40% of you prefer the existing design to the current Pro, and my colleague José Adorno said he finds the design of the Pro less comfortable.
We may not have to wait long. If the rumors of an Apple event on March 23 are correct, this would be a likely time to launch them.
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