Apple is on track to release the second-generation AirPods Pro this fall with a new design, improved audio quality, and some new health features, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The tech giant is also working on new color options for the AirPods Max.
Second-generation AirPods Pro is on track to launch in the second half of 2022
As mentioned in previous numerous reports, Gurman writes in his latest Power On newsletter that consumers should expect the launch of the new AirPods Pro 2 in the Fall this year.
Look out for new AirPods Pro in the fall. The current model has been on the market since fall of 2019, so the batteries are already probably in trouble for some early adopters. Also look out for an AirPods Max refresh with new colors (and, we hope, a price drop—$550 is absurd for those headphones).
The first-generation AirPods Pro debuted in October 2019 and has not been refreshed since then. Gurman’s claim about the wireless earbuds launching in the second half of this year lined up with previous predictions by TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
Kuo previously said that the second-generation AirPods Pro will feature a “significantly upgraded” wireless chip compared to the H1 chip feature in the first-generation earbuds. The chip could result in improved battery life for a longer listening time. The earbuds will also support Apple Lossless (ALAC) format on Apple Music.
In addition, the second-generation AirPods Pro could feature a more compact design with a new charging case. An earlier report also suggested that Apple could be developing health features for AirPods to monitor users’ posture, enhance hearing, and measure body temperature.
Kuo also said that Apple will likely discontinue the original AirPods Pro once the second generation is announced to ensure product demand is healthy.
As for the AirPods Max, Gurman said that Apple is working on new color options for the over-head headphones. While a second-generation model of the headphones that launched in December 2020 is not to be expected this year, a refresh is coming. However, Gurman did not offer a timeframe for when they could launch.
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