An AirPods vendor has backed up previous reports that Apple is working on third-generation AirPods called ‘AirPods Pro Lite’ – with a design that is either identical to the current AirPods Pro or very similar.
We first heard about Apple’s plans for the next generation of non-Pro AirPods in October …
Bloomberg then reported that next year’s AirPods would be similar to the current AirPods Pro, but would not have active noise cancellation (ANC).
The design of the updated entry-level AirPods will be similar to the current AirPods Pro, with a shorter stem and replaceable ear tips. Apple also wants to improve battery life. However, that model will not have advanced AirPods Pro features such as noise cancellation, said the folks, who asked not to be identified when discussing private matters.
The same report said the next generation of AirPods Pro models would also get a redesign.
For the new AirPods Pro, Apple is aiming to make the earplugs more compact by eliminating the short stem currently sticking out of the bottom. A design under test has a more rounded shape that more fills a user’s ear – similar to the latest designs from Samsung, Amazon and Google.
We later saw a claimed photo of the design.
Today’s report in TheElec quotes a vendor backing these reports, claiming to have a few more details.
Apple will launch a Lite version of its Airpods Pro wireless earphones with no noise canceling function in the first half of 2021, TheElec has learned.
A South Korean material supplier is currently developing a system-in-package (SiP) with Airpods H1 chip.
The SiP used for the H1 chip in the regular Airpods Pro was shaped like a mouse. The SiP for the H1 chip in the Lite version will have a simple square shape. The supplier will pass Apple’s quality control within the year and begin mass production next year.
A person familiar with the matter said the Lite version will be 20% cheaper than the normal Airpods Pro.
Supply chain reports, if collected properly, can provide accurate information about functions and designs. However, they would have no insight into Apple’s marketing or pricing plans, so that aspect is probably more of an assumption than based on any evidence.
Still, 20% less than $ 249 would be $ 199, which is a reasonable expectation. Apple currently offers AirPods at four price levels:
- AirPods with Wired Charging Case: $ 159
- AirPods with Wireless Charging Case: $ 199
- AirPods Pro with Wireless Charging Case: $ 249
- AirPods Max: $ 549
We expect next year’s model to replace the middle one and be priced at roughly the same level.
A redesign of the AirPod Pro would keep the visual distinction between the two levels. Apple is aware that some people buy more expensive models more to be seen with them than for the features, so distinct designs are an important part of the upsell process.
Photo: Sumudu Mohottige on Unsplash
FTC: We use automatic affiliate links that generate income. Lake.
Check out 9to5Mac on YouTube for more Apple news: