Apple Likely to Launch 4th Gen AirPods With ANC, New AirPods Max in 2024

Two new AirPods models might be launched this year, replacing the 2nd-gen and 3rd-gen options which are currently on sale, as per the latest rumours. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman predicted in October and is now reiterating that Apple will offer active noise cancelling on its non-Pro models for the first time, hopefully bringing this highly popular feature to a lower price point to better compete with much less expensive options from other companies. Only one of the two 4th-gen models will feature ANC, allowing Apple to stagger prices and cater to the entry-level market as well as offer potential buyers a tempting upsell. 

The report goes on to state that both models will feature a new design similar to the 3rd-gen model but with better ear fit. The original AirPods design with long stalks, as seen in the 2nd-gen AirPods Pro, will finally be retired. The new models will predictably feature USB Type-C ports for charging, matching the current-gen AirPods Pro. The higher-end model might also get a speaker that can sound alerts for Find My item tracking. It is possible that one or both models will be manufactured in India.

Sound quality will of course be improved on both models. The timeframe of the launch isn’t certain, but it is likely to be in the second half of 2024, and these new devices could be timed to take advantage of the US 2024 holiday gift shopping season. There is no mention of whether Apple will offer the new AirPods in multiple colours, which fans have been hoping for for years, and which could also spur demand. 

Also in 2024, Apple could refresh its high-end over-the-ear AirPods Max headset. No major design changes are expected, although Apple could change up the colour options it currently offers. The new AirPods Max will also have a USB Type-C port for charging and wired playback. The current model lacks Adaptive Audio and an IP rating for sweat and dust resistance. It uses Apple’s older H1 chip and Bluetooth 5.0 as opposed to the H2 in the current AirPods Pro which enables Bluetooth 5.3. 

No update to the AirPods Pro is expected this year, but a new model next year might introduce long-rumoured health tracking features. Apple refreshed the 2nd-gen AirPods Pro with a USB Type-C port for charging, an IP54 rating, and a higher-bandwidth wireless connection to support lossless audio.

In related news also reported by Bloomberg, Apple has reorganised the department responsible for AirPods development with the upcoming retirement of Gary Greaves, VP of Acoustics. He will take on an advisory role until he retires.