Apple releasing new AirPods in early 2021, new HomePod rumored
Apple is supposedly readying new third-generation AirPods and second-generation AirPods Pro for launch in early 2021, according to a report from Bloomberg.
Rumors have long suggested that Apple’s third-generation AirPods will gain a similar design to that found on the AirPods Pro, with a shorter white stem and replaceable ear tips, although the earbuds are expected to lack noise cancelation capabilities to differentiate them between the high-end Pro model.
Bloomberg suggests that for the second-generation AirPods Pro, Apple is testing a new design with “a more rounded shape that fills more of a user’s a ear,” although it is reported that cramming the technology into the new design is proving “challenging” during development, which the insight notes “could result in a less ambitious design when the product is finalized.”
In addition to new AirPods, Bloomberg claim Apple has contemplated launching a new HomePod that “sits in size, price and sound quality between the original $299 HomePod and the $99 HomePod mini,” but it is unknown if this speaker will ever make it past the drawing board.
Beyond the new AirPods, Apple has also internally weighed a new HomePod that sits in size, price and sound quality between the original $299 HomePod and the $99 HomePod mini. It’s unclear if Apple will ultimately launch that product or just further cut the price of the higher-end version.
The Apple Post shared concepts designed by Philip Goolkasian on Sunday that envisioned the “HomePod Max” – an all-new Apple sound bar with app UIs, a new design, integrated Apple TV 4K with touch controls, and more.