A new image claims to offer our first real-world look at Apple’s next-generation AirPods. The image, shared by 52audio, shows AirPods and the charging case for what the site claims is the third iteration of wireless headsets.
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52audio In the past, it shared images that claimed to show different parts of the third generation irAirPods. Most notably, the site in November shared an x-ray image claiming to be the new AirPods; however, it was later proved to be forged and simply a compressed X-ray image of the current generation AirPods Pro.
The image shared today, however, is in line with what we know so far about third generation AirPods. Bloomberg reported that the new AirPods will follow design tips from AirPods Pro for having a smaller stem and silicone tips, but they will not have cutting edge features like Active Noise Canceling.
According 52audio and a caption provided of the leaked image, the new AirPods will feature a pressure relief system, the same technology featured in AirPods Pro. The system is designed to equalize the pressure inside your ear to remove any discomfort from using AirPods for an extended period of time. Based on the image, the charging case will be less rectangular than the case that comes with the AirPods Pro and more in line with the original AirPods case, but with the addition of an LED charging indicator on the front.
Third generation AirPods can also use the controlesAirPods Pro touch controls. According to the accompanying 3D renderers 52audio, each new headset will feature touch control surfaces, instead of the single and double touch controls on current AirPods (first and second generation).
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The new AirPods are expected to offer the same five hours of continuous audio playback as the second generation AirPods, according to the latest report. This differs from the details previously provided by Bloomberg, however, which states that Apple is looking to improve the battery life of the new model beyond the current five hours of audio playback. In addition, the new report states that space audio support, a feature currently exclusive to the AirPods Pro, is “highly” likely for the new AirPods.
Apple analysts, Ming-Chi Kuo, said in November that mass production of the new AirPods will take place in the first half of the year. According 52audio, the new AirPods are due to debut in early March. This week, BloombergMark Gurman poured cold water on speculation that Apple will host an event on March 16. He, however, left the door open for an event on another date in March.
Leaker Jon Prosser, who has a mixed record when it comes to reporting on Apple’s plans, recently reported that an event on March 16 (now unlikely) will be the headline for AirTags and new iPads. Apple launched AirPods Pro via a press release in 2019, so it remains to be seen how and when Apple will launch the next generation AirPods.