Apple is rumored to be making various updates to the AirPods lineup, including the possible launch of two fourth-generation products, and the supply chain is gearing up for what could be Apple's largest AirPods launch ever. Reports suggest that up to 25 million pairs of AirPods will be put into mass production in the summer and released in the fall.
Mark Gurman wrote in Bloomberg's "PowerOn" newsletter that Apple is preparing to produce 20 million to 25 million pairs of AirPods, which is obviously higher than the release plan of early models.
The production line will officially start mass production in May through partners Goertek and Luxshare Precision, and is expected to be released in September or October.
The code names of these two models are B768(E) and B768(M), which refer to the "entry version" and "mid-level version". Gurman added that both products will feature a new design with an improved in-ear fit and will come with a USB-C charging case, but only the M model will come with active noise cancellation and speakers for finding devices.
The new AirPods are just some of the changes in the 2024 product line. As part of iOS 18, expected updates include a hearing aid mode feature for AirPods Pro, while AirPods may gain hearing test capabilities.
An update to AirPods Pro is also expected, but Gurman believes it may not appear until 2025.