Apple May Launch More Affordable AirPods Later This Year; Here's All You Need to Know

By Reetika Bhatt - April 2, 2024
Apple-AirPods
Apple is working on a more affordable version of its famous AirPods, which are anticipated to be available later this year. The reasonably priced device, dubbed AirPods Lite, will likely be built in I....

Apple AirPods are among the most popular options when it comes to TWS earbuds. Tech fans around the world opt for the AirPods because of their extensive features and remarkable ANC capabilities. Users may occasionally be concerned about their cost, though. There's good news for those who have been eyeing the AirPods but wish they were a little less expensive. The tech giant is reportedly working on a more affordable version of the AirPods, dubbed AirPods Lite, later this year. Analyst Jeff Pu revealed that the company wants to provide a model that is more reasonably priced. According to Pu's claim, a Foxconn affiliate will be involved in production, with a planned ramp-up at an Indian factory by late 2024. Here's all you need to know.

The report primarily addresses the effects of AirPods production on the company's partners and overall supply chain. It asserts that this year's demand for wireless earbuds will decline by approximately 4 per cent year over year, with Apple projecting sales of approximately 55 million units due to "muted demand for existing models."

The iPhone manufacturer may release two iterations of its fourth-generation AirPods in September or October, according to recent comments made by Apple analyst Mark Gurman. Mid-range and entry-level models will make up these variants. Gurman claims that both variants will have a redesigned charging case with a USB-C connector, improved fit, and better sound quality. The mid-tier model is also anticipated to come with a speaker enabling Find My Location tracking and active noise cancellation. Although it seems likely, it is unclear if the less expensive AirPods are the same as the entry-level fourth-generation models. 

The AirPods Lite will probably feature in-ear headphones with the familiar white colour and stem design, much like the current AirPods series. Additionally, there are rumors that the AirPods Lite may have an older chip as it will be devoid of wireless charging or spatial audio. In addition, analyst Pu predicts that the revised AirPods Max will be released in the fourth quarter of 2024. Gurman has previously hinted that the only addition to these over-ear headphones will be a USB-C charging connector, though there may be other colour options as well.

Apple WWDC 2024

Concurrently, Apple has revealed the dates for its yearly Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024. The event will take place from Monday, June 10, to Friday, June 14. Apart from the anticipated regular OS updates for its products, the tech giant is expected to make several other crucial announcements. The firm has been hinting at the possibility of adding Al functionality to MacBooks, iPads, and iPhones.

Apple AirPods: Current Range

There are multiple models in the current AirPods portfolio to suit a range of price points. The price of the second-generation AirPods currently stands at Rs 12,900, while the third-generation version, launched in 2021, can be purchased at Rs 19,900. It is important to note that these products are frequently offered on e-commerce sites for a significantly reduced cost.

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