‘AirPods Studio’ over-ear Apple headphones to be produced in Vietnam
Apple is said to be manufacturing its upcoming over-ear AirPods Studio headphones in Vietnam in an effort to “diversify manufacturing away from China”, according to a new report from The Information.
Citing an unnamed person with knowledge of Apple’s plans, the report explains that “some of the headphones” will be produced by manufacturers in China, adding that bringing AirPods Studio to Vietnam would mark the first time Apple has built an entirely new product in the country.
Goertek and Luxshare will assemble AirPods Studio headphones in Vietnam, according to the report. Apple currently uses the suppliers to produce AirPods, Apple Watches and iPhones.
The move would be the first time Apple has used factories in Vietnam to produce an entirely new product, instead of relying on them to supplement manufacturing of an older model already produced in China. The company is working with contract manufacturers, who will also build some of the headphones in factories in China, said a person briefed on Apple’s plans.
According to The Information, Apple will begin receiving shipments of the new headphones from factories in June or July, which could suggest a release to customers sometime in late summer or early fall.
It was reported earlier this month that Apple will price its new headphones at $349, supposedly featuring interchangeable components, similar to the various bands available for the Apple Watch.