AirTags, next-gen AirPods and new Apple augmented reality device coming this year, claims Kuo
Brandon Bourne
Posted On 04/01/2021 
Often referred to as the leading Apple insider, respected TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has built a reputation for being one of the most accurate voices on all things Apple. In a new research note published today, Kuo has shared his outlook on the year ahead, saying Apple’s long-rumored AirTags item trackers are on the way, alongside new AirPods, an all-new augmented reality device and more.
AirTags have been on the lips of Apple followers for quite some time. The small Tile-like trackers are expected to attach to valuables such as wallets, backpacks, keys, and more, allowing users to track their belongings in the Find My app, which is rumored to notify users as soon as they become separated from their valuables, with the exception of when items have been left behind at a pre-defined “Safe Location”, such as at the user’s home or workplace.
Leaker Jon Prosser suggested in October that Apple was reportedly delaying the launch of AirTags until March 2021, adding that the devices will be “just a tad larger than a bottle cap,” with Apple set to offer a “keychain that has a little leather pouch on it that you can just slip your AirTag into.”
Like AirTags, it has also been long-rumored that Apple is readying next-generation AirPods to launch this year. A new $199 “Lite” version of the AirPods Pro is said to launch within months, without the active noise cancellation technology on the current AirPods Pro. It is also understood that Apple is redesigning the entry-level AirPods to look more like the current AirPods Pro.
Image: Apple
Moving on to arguably one of the most interesting points made by Kuo, a new augmented reality device is expected this year, whether that be an AR headset, glasses, or both. It’s understood that AR devices have been in development for years, with Kuo claiming in the first half of the year last year that Apple’s AR glasses won’t arrive until 2022 “at the earliest.”
Leaked medical reports have shown in 2017 that an Apple employee reported eye pain after working with a new prototype, thought to be a pair of Apple’s AR glasses.
It is worth noting that Apple’s iPhones and iPads offer AR capabilities, so Kuo is being rather vague when he says a new AR device is coming in 2021.
MacBook Pro Concept | Viktor Kádár
Touching on Apple’s other categories, Kuo suggests 2021 will see the continued rollout of Apple Silicon across the Mac lineup, as well as mini LED displays coming to the iPad and Mac.
Image: Xhakomo Doda
