Airpods Archives - Gizmochina

Apple AirPods with built-in cameras reportedly in active development

Sean — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 14:39:26 +0000

Apple has been rumored to be working on a special AirPods model that packs built in cameras. Now, a fresh report has revealed more details regarding this unique AirPods, with the hearables apparently being in active development. So let’s check it out.

Apple AirPods with Cameras in the works

The news arrives from Mark Gurman’s latest PowerOn newsletter. In this report, Gurman states that the Cupertino based giant’s AirPods with integrated cameras are currently in active development. For those unaware, the next gen Apple AirPods with cameras were previously rumored in the January newsletter as well. But the active development part hints that its release might not be too far away.

Apple AirPods Pro

Based on what we know so far, these cameras won’t be used as typical image sensors for capturing pictures. Rather, the cameras would serve the purpose of gathering data regarding the users’ environment. This would likely work in tandem with Apple Intelligence to integrate visual data. The system may be a new part of Apple’s Visual Intelligence that analyzes the environment and provides the user with information about the surroundings. Apple offers this tech on its iPhone cameras as well.

Furthermore, the earlier report revealed that the cameras aren’t color sensors, but instead employ infrared cameras. The entire system could also work with the Apple Vision Pro to get a spatial audio experience. These could also work with future Apple mixed reality headsets. It is unclear when exactly these AirPods with cameras drop, but these may debut after the AirPods Pro 3 which could launch sometime later this year.

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Next-gen Apple AirPods may feature cameras, But it’s not for taking pictures

Sean — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 09:20:58 +0000

Apple might be planning a major upgrade on its next generation of AirPods. A new rumor has hinted at the brand packing camera sensors on the hearables. But there’s a catch, the new AirPods won’t be using these cameras for taking pictures. Rather, it would offer a set of new functionalities.

Future Apple AirPods Rumored with Cameras

The news regarding Apple’s next gen AirPods arrives from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his latest PowerOn newsletter. It seems like the Cupertino based giant is looking to add cameras to future AirPods, but these sensors won’t be taking pictures as these are expected to be IR (Infrared) sensors. Unlike traditional cameras, these won’t be used to snap pictures.

Apple AirPods Pro 2

While Gurman did not share any finer details regarding the upcoming AirPods, known analyst Ming Chi-Kuo offered more details in the past. The iPhone maker might use these sensors to measure health related metrics. This is not the first time we’ve heard of this bizarre combo since the analyst shared similar details last year. It may even use these infrared sensors for an improved spatial audio experience.

But that’s not all. The inclusion of infrared may allow the company to introduce gesture controls on the Apple AirPods. These could be air gestures that map input through hand movements. Apple could release the AirPods with the cameras could begin mass production in 2026, which could mean either a late 2026 or early 2027 launch. So it is still a while from being released. Keep in mind that this is still just speculation, so take this news with a pinch of salt for now.

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Next-generation AirPods to equip infrared cameras for enhanced spatial audio and more

Debasish — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 13:11:38 +0000

Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo revealed Apple’s plans regarding its next-generation AirPods which is expected to be launched in 2026. According to him, Apple is planning to integrate infrared cameras with the next generation of AirPods.

Integrating IR cameras into AirPods could introduce a range of new capabilities to Apple’s ecosystem

The infrared cameras could reportedly be used in multiple ways, which include in-ear hand gesture detection, and enhanced spatial audio when paired with the Apple Vision Pro.

With the IR cameras, AirPods will be able to detect the user’s head movement and share the directional information with the Vision Pro to make adjustments to the spatial audio. Apple Intelligence will also reportedly be able to take advantage of the infrared cameras in AirPods.

The cameras could be similar to what Apple uses in iPhones for Face ID. Ming-Chi Kuo reported that Foxconn would supply the cameras and the current annual production capacity is planned to be between 18 million and 20 million units. However, the actual demand and order volume will depend on the market conditions at that time.

While we don’t know what exact functionalities the hand gestures could enable, they might include basic controls like changing the volume or the audio track.

Notably, Ming-Chi Kuo’s speculation is in line with a previous analysis from Mark Gurman, that revealed Apple’s plans to integrate cameras with AirPods. However, we didn’t know much about the development at that time. Apple has dominated the wireless earphone market with AirPods for quite a while. However, the market share has reduced from 48% in 2019 to nearly 21% in 2023, according to Statista. We’ll need to see if Apple can boost its market share with this latest development and, crucially, the pricing of the next-generation AirPods.

Nonetheless, we are still quite a bit away from the launch of the next-generation AirPods, and Apple may change its plans depending on how successful the development process is.

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Future Apple wearables may include AirPods with cameras, smart rings, & smart glasses: Gurman

Sean — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 10:10:34 +0000

Apple could have some big plans for its future wearable products. The company is apparently looking into new wearable gadgets and even a major redesign to the existing AirPods hearables as well. So here’s everything you need to know.

Apple smart rings, smart glasses, & more on the drawing board?

The news arrives from Mark Gurman’s latest Power On newsletter. In the new report, Gurman claims that the Cupertino based giant could be exploring new forms of wearable products. This could include smart glasses, similar to the Amazon Echo Frames. For those unaware, this offers smart audio and AI features and might offer some of the augmented reality features of the Vision Pro as well.

Furthermore, a smart ring could also be planned for the future. Such a gadget comes packed with various health related sensors. These could be a viable alternative for users who dislike smartwatches like the Apple Watch. Both the smart ring and smart glasses appear to be in the early conceptual stages at the moment. On the other hand, the AirPods with a camera built into it might be in the works.

Gurman claims that the iPhone maker is looking into ways to add a camera on the AirPods TWS. He adds that the project has the codename B798 internally. This project talks about the AirPods with low resolution camera sensors. Apple is mulling over these projects to bring AI and health features, as per the report. It is worth noting that this is still just an unconfirmed report, so take this news with a pinch of salt for now.

Chinese Police bust fake Apple headphone syndicate, confiscate products worth millions in US dollars

Jed John Ikoba — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 23:58:38 +0000

The Police authorities in Suining, Sichuan Province of China have made a huge discovery of a fake Apple Bluetooth headphone syndicate. The police recovered a huge collection of counterfeit Apple Airpods estimated at millions of US Dollars. The police destroyed nine counterfeit dens, three production lines, and six sales dens with the amount involved estimated to be about 167 million yuan (around $23.5 million).

The report indicates that more than 69,000 fake Apple Bluetooth headsets, 45,000+ semi-finished headsets, four sets of counterfeiting tools, and more than 50,000 sets of packaging materials, as well as 10,000+ sets of spare parts, were seized in the major bust. The Police stated that their investigations also revealed that the fake Apple headphones have already been sold to more than 10 provinces and cities across China including Guangdong, Shandong, Sichuan, and Hainan. This indicates that the magnitude of the distribution network of this counterfeiting ring may be extensive. There are no indications as of now whether the products have been smuggled to other markets outside China.

Apple products are popular targets of counterfeiters because of their popularity

The identification of an authentic Apple headphone can be achieved via several ways that will guide the consumer against counterfeit products. One of the ways is through appearance inspection. Genuine headphones come with the Apple logo while fake devices omit the logo. The surface treatment of a fake headphone is not as refined as you would find in an authentic Apple headphone.

Another way of establishing the authenticity of an Apple headset is by verifying the product’s serial number on Apple’s official website. If no serial numbers are shown on the headphones, that is an indication of a possible counterfeit product. There are also detailed features in an authentic Apple headset with some unique identifiers that are difficult to counterfeit. Importantly, the purchase channel could also point to possible counterfeited products. If you purchase your gadget from official channels, then there is zero possibility that you will buy a fake. There are no details yet on the number of arrests and possible prosecution of the persons involved in counterfeiting Apple headphones.

AirPods 4 to Get New Design, USB-C Port, and Active Noise Cancellation While Maintaining Affordable Price

Oğuz Çakır — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 20:57:00 +0000

f you are an iPhone user and thinking about getting new AirPods, it might be a good idea to wait a bit longer. Because, Apple is about to reveal the fourth-generation AirPods in the coming months. The upcoming version will bring several changes, including the addition of features like active noise cancellation. However, in addition to all this AirPods 4 will also come with a new design and an updated case. Here are the details…

Unveiling the All-New AirPods 4 and Its Enhanced Features

According to the lates reports, the AirPods 4 will make a breakthrough by offering two different versions. One will be a budget friendly option targeting the entry-level market, while the other will appeal to users looking for more advanced features. Currently, Apple offers both AirPods 3 and AirPods 2 models in both physical and digital stores. However, users are finding it confusing due to the minimal differences in features between the two headphone versions.

Fortunately, with the new model, the company might only sell the fourth-generation headphones to make things less confusing for customers. Unfortunately, it’s unclear what differences there will be between the cheaper and more expensive versions of AirPods 4. However, we can assume that some features present in the higher-end version may not be available in the cheaper one. For instance, the premium version of AirPods 4 will likely feature active noise cancellation, a capability that has so far been exclusive to the AirPods Pro.

However, there will be some similarities as well. For instance, both models will have a refreshed design. To give an example, the upcoming headphones will be a combination of the current models and the Pro series. Moreover, a new case featuring a USB-C port instead of Lightning will also be unveiled. Currently, these are the only details available to us. However, it’s worth noting likely come with a price increase. When thinking about prices, it’s a good idea to keep this in mind.

Apple’s Plans for AirPods Max 2 Revealed

Oğuz Çakır — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 22:58:00 +0000

Apple has finalized the development of its next-generation headphones, the AirPods Max 2, as part of its shift to the Type-C standard. Leaked details suggest that Apple is gearing up to reveal the AirPods Max 2 sooner than initially expected. Let’s explore the anticipated announcement date for this new model.

What to Expect from Apple’s Upcoming AirPods Max 2

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the upcoming model will incorporate a Type-C charging port, maintaining continuity with its predecessor. While it’s not officially confirmed, there’s speculation that the new model will retain the drivers from its predecessor. Apple aims to launch the AirPods Max 2 in the second quarter of 2024.

The AirPods Max, Apple’s initial venture into over-ear headphones, boasts features like an adaptive equalizer and spatial audio technology. The first-generation model, distinguished by its special acoustic design, houses the H1 chipset. Notably, it shares features like transparency mode and ANC (active noise cancellation) with other AirPods models.

Additional information about the AirPods Max 2 leak, particularly concerning new color options. Apple intends to provide users with a broader range of color choices.

Similar to the first-generation AirPods Max, the AirPods Max 2 is expected to feature the Digital Crown, a familiar element from Apple Watch models. This innovative control mechanism allows users to manage volume, skip songs, answer calls, and activate Siri. Equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, the headphones come bundled with a charging cable and a Smart Case in the package.

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Seeing Through the Illusion: CT Scans Uncover the Reality Behind Fake AirPods Pro 2

Oğuz Çakır — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 21:26:47 +0000

If you’re an iPhone user looking for wireless earphones, you’ve probably considered the AirPods Pro 2 model. However, upon seeing its price of $249, you might have also thought about more affordable alternatives. Maybe you’ve even bought imitation AirPods Pro 2, thinking there’s no real difference. But appearances can be deceiving. A CT scan conducted on fake AirPods reveals just how misleading and inferior they can be.

CT Scans Expose the True Nature of Fake AirPods Pro 2

Fake AirPods are so well-made that they can fool even Apple devices, such as iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks. This has even led to people being scammed into buying fake AirPods, thinking they are real. A CT scan by the research team Lumafield reveals the stark difference between real and fake AirPods. The counterfeit AirPods are made with cheap materials and components, and they lack the sophisticated technology of the real ones.

Upon examining the insides of both earphones, it became evident that the fake AirPods Pro 2 contain fewer components than the authentic ones. As seen in the images accompanying our report, the original earphones are densely packed, while the imitations have much more empty space inside. The reason for this is, of course, the absence of the same technologies. Fake products lack the necessary components for functions like active noise cancellation. They only feature a subpar microphone, a mini “speaker” for transmitting sound, and a battery.

To emphasize once again, the fact that fake AirPods Pro 2 models look like the real deal changes nothing. Continuously using these products with subpar batteries could even lead to serious health issues. Unfortunately, despite all this information, people worldwide continue to purchase these earphones.

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Apple to update standard AirPods & Max in 2024, and Pro in 2025: Gurman

Soumyakanti — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 22:33:34 +0000

Apple is gearing up for significant changes in its AirPods lineup, as reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. In 2024, updates are anticipated for both the standard AirPods and AirPods Max, while the AirPods Pro will receive enhancements in 2025.

Concurrently, Apple is planning to phase out the 2nd and 3rd-generation standard AirPods and introduce two different price points for the upcoming 4th-generation AirPods.

Upcoming-Generation AirPods: New Designs and Features

According to Gurman, the 4th-generation standard AirPods are expected to incorporate features from both AirPods and AirPods Pro models and may come with shorter earphone stems. The higher-end version of the standard AirPods is likely to feature active noise cancellation, similar to the AirPods Pro and Max, along with an improved fit for added comfort. Details about potential additions to the charging case, such as speakers or a USB-C interface, remain uncertain.

The AirPods Max will not just be receiving functional updates. Aesthetic variations are also on the horizon, with more color options likely to be available. There’s also talk of adding the USB-C interface.

As for the AirPods Pro, the 3rd gen is rumored to boast a new design and more efficient internal chips. What’s particularly intriguing is the possibility of “hearing health” features, suggesting that these AirPods could collect hearing data, potentially positioning them as an alternative to traditional hearing aids in certain situations. This year Apple already updated the 2nd generation AirPods Pro with USB‐C so the next gen will also feature the same.

Apple has filed recent patents suggesting that future AirPods may include features such as reading biosignals like brain waves using in-ear electrodes and dynamic environment adaptation capabilities.

Apple also plans to manufacture AirPods in India, in addition to iPhones and is expected to introduce these refreshed AirPods models alongside new iPhones next year.

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Apple AirPods will soon be made in India alongside iPhones

Sean — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 11:36:01 +0000

In recent years, Apple started manufacturing its popular products like iPhones in India. The company’s biggest supplier Foxconn is responsible for its smartphone production in the region, and now, it appears that it will also make AirPods from its factories as well.

Apple AirPods now Made in India

According to a new report, the Cupertino based giant is planning to locally make its hearables in India. Future AirPods will be mass-produced by Foxconn from its factory situated in Hyderabad. In other words, the AirPods will soon join arrive with the Made in India tag as well. Apparently, Foxconn has approved an investment of 400 million US Dollars for its Hyderabad plant.

The PTI report states that sources are claiming that AirPods production will kick off in India sometime by December 2024. This means that Indian consumers will have to wait till 2025 to buy AirPods made locally. The iPhone maker was first rumored to begin AirPods production earlier this year but with a smaller 200 million US Dollar initial investment.

As of right now, Apple is selling its AirPods (2nd & 3rd Gen) and AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) in the country. Unfortunately, it is still unclear if local production will lead to the AirPods pricing in the region being affected. So stick around for more, as we will be providing updates when additional information is available regarding this matter.

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Apple AirPods could soon read your biosignals like brain waves with in-ear electrodes

Sean — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 09:47:55 +0000

Apple was granted a patent earlier this month, which hints at future AirPods featuring some major hardware upgrades. The new patent has described AirPods with technology that can read biosignals like your brain waves.

Apple working on AirPods that can map your brain

The Cupertino based giant was granted a patent that describes AirPods that feature tiny electrodes all over the earbuds. These electrodes would allow it to read various biosignals. In the patent document, the company showcased the placement of tiny electrodes all over the housing of both its wired and wireless earphones. Furthermore, these future AirPods will also house both active and reference electrodes that might need to be configured individually for a user’s ear.

These biosignal measurement devices might also be placed at the tip of the earpods. The patent shares some images that reveal how the user can tap on the side to start off the electroencephalography or other forms of measurement. It is worth noting that this is still just a patent. In other words, the future AirPods with brain wave reading technology might not be arriving anytime soon.

Apple has a lot of work going forward since putting small electrodes on AirPods isn’t exactly a simple task. The brand could simply be covering all bases and might not actually be working on such a hearable product. Reading biosignals will also need the iPhone maker to receive proper certifications from the proper authorities. But we recently reported on future AirPods soon offering body temperature and hearing health features.

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New Apple Patent Reveals Dynamic Environment Adaptation for AirPods

Anubhav — Sat, 08 Apr 2023 04:18:39 +0000

The audio quality of Apple AirPods is widely regarded as good, with rich bass and clear treble. The earbuds use a custom-designed chip, which enhances the sound quality and provides a seamless connection with Apple devices. Additionally, the earbuds feature beamforming microphones that reduce background noise and enhance voice clarity during phone calls and voice commands. AirPods also have an adaptive equalizer that automatically tunes the music to the shape of the wearer’s ear for optimal sound quality. The company has now begun the process of working on new upgrades for future AirPods, and the latest patent reveals the company’s plans for doing so.

Apple has secured a technical patent from the United States Trademark and Patent Office (USPTO) for “Measurement of Virtual Listening Environment”, according to IT Home on April 8. The patent aims to improve the listening experience for users by dynamically adjusting the acoustics of earphones based on different environments. The patent description outlines scenarios where users may listen to audio or video content in various settings, such as in a car, on the grass, in the classroom, on a train, or in the living room.

Apple hopes to achieve better binaural audio processing using digital signal processing technologies, microphones, and spatial audio functions to simulate real-life soundscapes at the listener’s eardrums. The result would be an “immersive” audio experience for the user. Immersive audio creates a sense of space and depth, making the audio content feel more three-dimensional and engaging. Apple seems to be constantly striving towards improving its consumer experience, which seems to contribute towards customer satisfaction in the long run.

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Get Ready for Apple AirPods Pro with Touch-Screen! Patent Filing Indicates Imminent Launch

Oğuz Çakır — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 16:38:17 +0000

Apple has always been a frontrunner when it comes to technological innovation. Recently, the US Patent & Trademark Office published a patent application from Apple revealing a potential redesign of their popular AirPods Pro case. The proposed design features a touch display that allows users to interact with various apps like Apple Music, Apple TV+, Maps, and more. This added functionality aims to improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and user satisfaction with their devices. Here are the details…

Apple invents an AirPods Case with a frontside Touch Display allowing users to interact with apps for Music, Apple TV+, Maps & more

The newly patented design seeks to enhance the user experience by transforming the AirPods case into a mini touch display. In this design, the headphone case features a graphical user interface (GUI), one or more processors, memory, and one or more modules or sets of instructions for performing multiple functions. The user can interact with the GUI primarily through finger contacts and gestures on the touch-sensitive surface or with an Apple Pencil.

Apple’s vision is to provide users with a seamless experience, enabling them to access essential apps and services directly from the AirPods case. The integration of displays, touch-sensitive surfaces, tactile output generators, device orientation sensors, and audio systems aims to create an intuitive and efficient interface for users.

The patent application includes a wide range of patent figures showcasing the case-display in action, demonstrating various scenarios using apps such as Apple Music, Apple TV+, Maps, Weather, and Audio Books. These figures illustrate the potential versatility of the touch display on the AirPods case, offering users a more convenient and enjoyable experience.

Siri, Apple’s voice assistant, is also incorporated into the design to facilitate communication and interaction with the user about an app or service. Siri is represented by pink bubbles in the patent figures, indicating its role in guiding users through the touch display interface. One example demonstrates how “squeezing” the case could signal a change in the audio mode on Apple TV+ content. This gesture-based control adds another layer of convenience and functionality to the AirPods case, further enhancing the user experience.

This patent application, originally filed in September 2022, suggests Apple’s ongoing commitment to innovation and its dedication to providing customers with a more immersive and convenient experience. The redesigned AirPods case, with its touch display and app integration, has the potential to revolutionize the way users interact with their devices.

While there is no guarantee that Apple will release a product based on this patent application, the concept presents a fascinating glimpse into the future of AirPods cases and the possibilities for enhanced user experiences. As technology continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how Apple and other companies push the boundaries of what is possible with our everyday devices.

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Apple and Foxconn Collaborate on AirPods Manufacturing in New $200 Million India Factory

Oğuz Çakır — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 08:10:03 +0000

Foxconn is a massive electronics manufacturer that produces products for many companies, including Apple. In fact, they’re responsible for producing 70% of all iPhones in the world! It looks like the relationship between Foxconn and Apple will continue to grow, as Foxconn has signed an agreement to produce AirPods for Apple. To accommodate this, the company will be building a brand new $200 million factory in India. Here are the details…

Apple supplier Foxconn wins AirPod order, plans $200 million factory in India

Foxconn has signed an agreement to manufacture Apple’s AirPods and is set to build a $200 million factory in India. This deal marks Foxconn’s debut in AirPods production, reflecting the company’s push to diversify beyond China, where AirPods are currently made by various suppliers. As we mention above, the company is responsible for assembling around 70% of all iPhones.

The company intends to invest over $200 million in the new Indian AirPods plant, located in the southern state of Telangana. The total value of the AirPods order has not been revealed. However, considering that even the factory costs $200 million, we can say that it is a pretty big deal. Sources say Foxconn officials weighed the pros and cons of producing AirPods, given their lower profit margins. Ultimately, they chose to pursue the deal to strengthen ties with Apple and secure future orders for new products.

Apple reportedly requested the shift to Indian production. Foxconn competes with other Taiwanese firms, like Wistron Corp and Pegatron Corp, to win orders from the tech giant. Foxconn’s subsidiary, Foxconn Interconnect Technology Ltd, plans to start building the manufacturing facility in Telangana later this year, with production commencing by the end of 2024.

Following the news, shares in the Foxconn unit jumped nearly 9%, while Foxconn shares rose by 0.5%. A second source confirmed that the Foxconn subsidiary will produce AirPods in India, but no additional details were given. Analysts have mentioned Apple’s desire for suppliers, including Foxconn, to manufacture AirPods in India, but investment size, timeline, and supplier details have not been specified.

Neither Foxconn nor Apple have commented on the matter

Apple and its primary suppliers have been gradually moving production away from China to circumvent potential disruptions from COVID-19 restrictions and escalating Sino-U.S. trade tensions. Foxconn announced plans to ramp up investment outside China to meet customer demand and reduce reliance on Chinese production.

It is unclear how Foxconn’s production plans will affect current AirPod suppliers like Luxshare Precision Industry, which has not commented on the matter. In November, Goertek Inc revealed that an overseas client suspended assembly work for a smart acoustic product, identified by analysts as AirPods Pro 2, resulting in a revenue loss of up to 3.3 billion yuan ($480 million).

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Apple AirPods May Come with Hearing Based Health Features by 2025

Sean — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 07:21:10 +0000

Apple is apparently planning on bringing a notable new health feature on its popular AirPods series of truly wireless earbuds. The company’s future AirPods might arrive with a hearing based health feature. So here are all the details.

The news arrives from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman who shared that these new features aren’t too far off. So we can expect the new health sensors to make their way on the wireless earphones by the next year or two. In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman stated that the Cupertino based giant is looking to soon upgrade the AirPods to also offer “health tool” functionalities as well within the next couple of years.

Furthermore, this would include the AirPods offering the users “the ability to get hearing data of some sort.” For those unaware, Apple has already been attempting at adding more hearing related functionalities to its users with Live Listen and Conversation Boost. Previously, we had even covered a report that suggested that the AirPods could function as a good cheap alternative for hearing aids. Although, Gurman added that these feature have yet to be approved by the FDA.

In other words, it is still far away from being a proper replacement to hearing aids. But its clear that the iPhone maker is working on adding various health related features on the AirPods. This includes aspects like biometric sensors, motion sensors, temperature monitors, heart rate trackers, perspiration, and more. Apple is likely making noticeable upgrades to the AirPods next year so we can expect these additional features to make its way by the second half of 2024 or first half of 2025.

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The World’s First AirPods Pro with USB-C Didn’t Come From Apple (video)

Oğuz Çakır — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 09:57:31 +0000

Apple is the first company that comes to mind when it comes to an ecosystem. The company has a wide range of products, including smartphones, headphones, and computers. Moreover, these products are constantly in communication with both hardware and software support, leading to the emergence of a seemingly perfect ecosystem. But is it really perfect? Not exactly…

Apple’s biggest problem is the divide between its use of USB-C and Lightning ports. Currently, MacBooks charge through USB-C, while AirPods and iPhones still use Lightning ports. This issue will eventually be resolved in the future, but for now it remains a problem in their current products. Fortunately, an engineer has taken the initiative to address this issue and has taken the first step towards finding a solution. Here are the details…

AirPods Pro get USB-C port in complex new mod

An engineer named Ken Pilonel, who previously made the world’s first USB-C iPhone by modifying an iPhone X, has succeeded again. Pilonel has successfully added a USB-C port to the first-generation AirPods Pro. The engineer recorded the entire process and uploaded it to YouTube. The process involved developing and printing a new circuit board with the USB-C connector and 3D printing a new AirPods case to accommodate the custom PCB.

The project involved plenty instances of trial and error, a whole new circuit board design and 3D printing. The necessary schematics are posted on GitHub so people with the right equipment can transform their AirPods with USB-C. Pilonel also plans to sell his self-developed PCB board for CHF 35 (€35/$38) and modified USB-C AirPods Pro for CHF 300 (€303/$326) from his personal website.

Still, it’s hard to predict how Apple will react to this. The company could take the case to court or simply ignore Pilonel as it already has to switch to USB-C by December 28, 2024.

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Apple Relocates AirPods Production to India

Oğuz Çakır — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 12:46:18 +0000

Apple and China’s long-standing partnership is coming to an end as the US technology giant shifts production to other countries. Reports indicate that Apple supplier Jabil’s India unit has started producing components for AirPods. Here are the details…

Apple’s India supplier Jabil making AirPods parts

Apple is continuing to decrease its presence in China for two reasons. The first is the challenge of relying on a single production location. The pandemic has shown us that this is a wrong move. The second reason is the negative impact of the lockdown and subsequent events in China. After the events at the factory in China, the company accelerated the process of shifting production.

Apple plans to continue production in Asia, with India as the key center of operations. Recent reports suggest that Jabil, an Apple supplier, has started producing components for AirPods in its India unit. This is a significant step for the company and India, particularly given the market share of AirPods.

Furthermore, India will not only produce headphones. Production of iPhone, iPad and Mac has also recently started in the country. Apple aims for India to contribute 25% of its production, up from its current 5-7%. The company has placed a big bet on India since starting iPhone assembly there in 2017, in accordance with the Indian government’s promotion of local manufacturing.

According to CNBC, India is also considering bringing some of Apple’s iPad production to the country from China. Although Apple currently holds only a 5% market share in India’s smartphone market, CEO Tim Cook has previously recognized India as a potential area for growth in the future.

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Key Apple Partners Set to Increase Production in Southeast Asia

Oğuz Çakır — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 11:12:58 +0000

Apple partners Foxconn Technology Group and Pegatron have announced plans to expand in Southeast Asia in 2023 as part of their efforts to mitigate geopolitical and economic risks. Foxconn chairman Liu Yang said at a company event that we will continue to expand our China, the Americas and Southeast Asia, these efforts will bear fruit in 2023.

Pegatron, Foxconn’s smaller rival, will allocate $300 million to $350 million for capital spending this year, in part to increase capacity in Southeast Asia and auto parts production in Mexico. The company is also a supplier to Tesla Inc. Both Foxconn and Pegatron currently produce iPhones in China and India, and Apple is also using Vietnam as an alternative manufacturing base for other products such as AirPods. Pegatron will increase production capacity in Vietnam and Indonesia, they already have existing factories, the company currently Apple products are not manufactured in these two countries. Foxconn did not specify which Southeast Asian countries it plans to expand in.

The expansion plans by these major contract electronics makers fit into an ongoing trend of diversifying supply chains that began in the Trump era, when the U.S. president imposed steep tariffs on some Chinese imports in his trade war with China. This China’s prolonged coronavirus-induced lockdown has disrupted supply chains and accelerated diversification efforts.

Both Foxconn and Pegatron have experienced Covid-related disruptions in China. Pegatron had to temporarily suspend production, and Foxconn was challenged by a violent protest that swept through its main complex in the city of Zhengzhou, disrupting the iPhone maker’s activities and forcing Apple to halt production. Warning shipments may be lower than expected.

The expansion plans of Foxconn and Pegatron in Southeast Asia in 2023 suggest that the world’s major contract electronics manufacturers will continue to increase production capacity outside China to mitigate geopolitical and economic risks and diversify their supply chains.

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Apple To Reportedly Launch New AirPods Max and Cheaper AirPods Early Next Year

Jeet — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 05:17:14 +0000

Apple has a very successful lineup of audio products in the form of AirPods, especially the in-ear true wireless earbuds. The company also regularly releases a new model to ensure it remains at the top of the game compared to its competitors.

While AirPods are still the bestselling true wireless earbuds in the world, they are priced on the higher side and not within everyone’s reach. But that could soon change as the company is reportedly gearing up to launch a low-cost model of AirPods early next year.

A well-known Apple analyst Ming Chi-Kuo claims that Apple is planning to launch a more affordable standard AirPods, which could cost around $99. Along with that, the company is also working on the second generation of AirPods Max, over-ear headphones.

It is being claimed that the mass shipment of both these products, the cheaper $99 AirPods and the second generation AirPods Max could take place in the first or second quarter of 2024 or in early 2025.

Currently, the cheapest AirPods model available in the market is the second-generation AirPods, costing $129, while the newer third-generation model is priced at $169 and comes with a Lightning charging case, while the one with MagSafe case costs $179.

It remains to be seen what features Apple brings to the cheaper AirPods and how it differentiates from other models, given that the second-gen model is usually available at a discounted price of $99.

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“Cheap” $99 AirPods Lite Release Date Revealed

Oğuz Çakır — Thu, 12 Jan 2023 11:47:36 +0000

According to noted Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the next generation of Apple‘s popular AirPods headphones could launch in the second half of 2024 or first half of 2025. The lineup is rumored to include a more affordable pair of AirPods priced at $99 and a new model of Apple’s over-ear AirPods Max headphones (released in 2020).

$99 AirPods could ship as early as next year alongside next-gen AirPods Max

The $99 AirPods would undercut the price of Apple’s current most affordable AirPods (its second-generation model) by $30. This move to reduce the price of the entry-level AirPods model mirrors what Apple did with its Apple TV lineup last year, when it launched a new set-top box that was $50 cheaper than its previously most affordable version.

(4/5)
The next-generation AirPods will likely begin mass shipments in 2H24 or 1H25, including more affordable AirPods (with Apple targeting a price of $99) and new AirPods Max, which will be assembled by Luxshare ICT and Hon Teng.
— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) January 12, 2023

Kuo previously reported that Apple would be launching a new USB-C charging case for all its AirPods models in 2023, around a year earlier than he’s now predicting the arrival of the next-gen headphones. However, it’s possible that Apple could refresh its AirPods charging cases in 2023 but leave the actual earbuds unchanged until 2024 or 2025.

In October, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that Apple could launch USB-C compatible lineup of AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max by 2024, and recently said that Apple’s AirPods lineup is unlikely to get any updates of note in 2023.
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Apple rumored to release Micro-LED Apple Watch in 2024

Oğuz Çakır — Tue, 03 Jan 2023 10:30:58 +0000

Tech analyst Jeff Pu has predicted that Apple will release a new high-end Apple Watch in 2024 with a micro-LED display. This prediction was made in a research note for Hong Kong investment firm Haitong International Securities.

Apple Watch With Micro-LED Display and Lower-Priced AirPods Rumored for 2024

The new Apple Watch is rumored to feature a larger 2.1-inch micro-LED display, which is expected to provide increased brightness compared to current models with OLED displays. The micro-LED technology has been gaining traction in the industry due to its ability to offer high resolution and brightness while consuming less power. This model is likely to be a new version of the Apple Watch Ultra, which was released in September 2022.

In addition to the micro-LED display, the new Apple Watch is expected to offer other upgraded features and improved performance. It is unclear at this time what specific improvements will be included, but it is likely that the new watch will offer enhanced fitness tracking and possibly new health features.

Pu has also mentioned a rumored lower-priced version of the AirPods, referred to as “AirPods Lite,” but did not provide any further details. It is unclear what specific features the “AirPods Lite” will offer, but it is possible that they will have a stripped down version of the features found in the current AirPods models in order to lower the price point.

ItIt is also worth noting that Pu has a mixed record in predicting Apple‘s future plans. Apple’s plans for its 2024 products may change in the future. That being said, the possibility of an Apple Watch with a micro-LED display and lower-priced AirPods is certainly intriguing, and it will be interesting to see what Apple has in store for these products in the future.

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Apple Releases a Special AirPods Pro for Chinese New Year

Oğuz Çakır — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 08:02:05 +0000

Apple has released a special edition of its popular AirPods Pro in celebration of the upcoming Chinese New Year, known as the “Year of the Rabbit.” According to latest reports, the Apple Store suddenly entered maintenance mode yesterday and released the new AirPods Pro “Year of the Rabbit” special edition in the early hours of the morning.

The special edition features a laser-engraved rabbit design on the earbuds’ casing, adding a festive touch to the product. However, the parameters and functions of the special edition are the same as the regular AirPods Pro. The price of the special edition is also unchanged, with the AirPods Pro “Year of the Rabbit” special edition retailing at 1899 yuan ($296).

In addition to the rabbit design on the earbuds, the packaging for the special edition also features a red rabbit design, further emphasizing the celebratory nature of the product. Latest reports notes that the design can also be seen on the pop-up window when the earbuds are connected to a phone.

There have also been reports that the red version of the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus are now available for purchase in China, possibly in celebration of the Chinese New Year. The release of the special edition AirPods Pro and the availability of the red iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus in China is a testament to Apple’s commitment to catering to the needs and preferences of its Chinese customers.

The Chinese market is a significant one for Apple, and the company has consistently released special editions of its products and made efforts to tailor its products and services to the Chinese market.Overall, the release of the AirPods Pro “Year of the Rabbit” special edition is sure to be a hit with Apple fans in China looking to celebrate the upcoming holiday in style.

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Apple to shift some AirPods & Beats production to India: Report

Sean — Wed, 05 Oct 2022 10:54:15 +0000

In recent years, Apple had started to diversify its supply chain and moved production for its products like the iPhones from China to other regions like India. Now, it appears that the company also plans to move some production of the AirPods and Beats as well to the region.

The news arrives from a Reuters report, which stated that the Cupertino based giant is preparing to make new Beats headphones in India. Furthermore, the iPhone maker is apparently also planning on moving some AirPods production to the country as well, as per sources close to the matter. Reportedly, Luxshare Precision Industry, a Chinese supplier of Apple, also has plans to begin begins production for AirPods in India.

On the other hand, Foxconn will be responsible for manufacturing Beats headphones in the region. As of right now, Luxshare is focusing on raising the production of AirPods in Vietnam, so it might be slower in moving its operations to India. The company has been planning on shifting some of its production from China already, with the latest model being the iPhone 14 series that is set to manufacture in the nation soon.

Beats Fit Pro Kim K Special edition Dune color

Apple has been working on reducing its dependence on China, which is its primary manufacturing hub. Since then, its focusing on regions like India, Mexico, and Vietnam, where some of its major suppliers have been setting up their operations. Production in India will also help the company avoid duties, which should lower their price tag as well.

Apple Japan hikes prices of devices by upto 20% due to global inflation and supply shortages

Divyansh Mehta — Mon, 04 Jul 2022 05:04:59 +0000

Apple holds 60% of the smartphone market in Japan. However, the brand had to revise the pricing of some of its models. As a result, iPhone models have become significantly more expensive in Japan over the past few days.

Apple’s M2 chip

Apple Japan has revised the prices for all iPhone models as of Thursday. The depreciation of the Japanese Yen against the US Dollar, which has lost roughly 18% of its value to the dollar in the last three months, is the reason for some models becoming nearly 20% more expensive than before.

For instance, the price of the iPhone 13 Pro has increased from 122,800 yen ($904) for the 128GB storage capacity to 144,800 yen ($1,066). The price of the iPhone SE Gen 3 has increased from 57,800 yen ($425) to 62,800 yen ($462) in the interim. It is common for multinational corporations like Apple to modify prices in a particular market to match with the change in a currency’s strength versus other currencies as the world contends with inflation (and supply shortages) across nations.

Apple Store in Tokyo, Japan

Apple’s price hike on iPhones comes just before the company is anticipated to unveil its new array of iPhones for the year, which is typically in September. Apple hasn’t changed the pricing of any other items from its Mac or iPad lineups; it has just raised the price of its iPhones so far.

Recently, Apple created a buzz in the global market by announcing the new M2 processor for its upcoming MacBook Air and a report also suggested that the upcoming AirPods Pro 2 will have a USB Type-C charging port.

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Apple to launch new AirPods & MagSafe chargers with USB-C ports: Kuo

Sean — Mon, 16 May 2022 10:16:01 +0000

Despite the USB Type C format being almost universally adopted for its various benefits, Apple has still stuck to its proprietary Lightning port design for sometime now. However, a new report has suggested that soon certain products will be shifting away from the company’s dated standards.

The news arrives from known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo who shared the information on Twitter. Recently, we have reported on the Cupertino based giant planning on shifting its popular iPhone series of smartphones to support USB Type C port. This would mark a major shift away from its Lightning Port. In the latest tweet, the analyst shared updates to his previous tweet, adding that additional Apple products would also make the switch to support USB Type C.

The other products includes the likes of new AirPods, Magic Keyboard, trackpad, and mouse, along with a new MagSafe chargers as well. Unfortunately, we still don’t know when exactly the move will occur and Kuo also stated that the shift is “in the foreseeable future.” For those unaware, the analyst had previously predicted that iPhones won’t be dropping the Lightning port until 2023.

So, it won’t be surprising if the brand has every other product make the shift as well. Although, we can likely expect the company to make this shift slowly. Keep in mind that this is still just speculation at this point, so take this report with a pinch of salt and stick around for more updates.

Entire Apple AirPods lineup gets an official price hike in India

Pranav Sawant — Tue, 05 Apr 2022 14:54:42 +0000

Apple has officially increased the prices of all of its AirPods models in the market. The company has hiked the prices of AirPods Pro, AirPods 3rd Gen, AirPods 2nd Gen and even the AirPods Max. The prices have gone up by a minimum of Rs. 1,200 and the change is currently effective on Apple.com.

Starting with the Apple AirPods 2nd Gen, which is the cheapest AirPods available right now, costs Rs. 14,100. This is a Rs. 1,200 increase from the old price of Rs. 12,900. The AirPods 3rd Gen now cost Rs. 20,500 as compared to the old price of Rs. 18,500.

The AirPods Pro 3rd Gen, which was priced at Rs. 24,900 previously now costs Rs. 26,300. Lastly, the AirPods Max, which was priced at Rs. 59,900 is now available for Rs. 66,100. This is an increase of Rs. 6,200.

Interestingly, the price is changed only on the Apple.com website and not on other retail sites like Flipkart and Amazon. That said, those who were looking to buy any of these audio products from Apple should immediately head to Flipkart or Amazon and purchase them at the old price.

Here are the prices of Apple AirPods on different platforms as of writing this article.

	New Price on Apple.com	Price on Flipkart	Price on Amazon
Apple AirPods 2nd Gen	Rs. 14,100	Rs. 12,058	Rs. 12,799
Apple AirPods 3rd Gen	Rs. 20,500	17,990	Rs. 17,990
Apple AirPods Pro	Rs. 26,300	Rs. 21,900	Rs. 20,490
Apple AirPods Max	Rs. 66,100	Rs. 59,900	Rs. 59,900

Do note that since the prices have officially increased, we are expected to see the new prices even on Flipkart and Amazon in the coming days.

Apple cuts iPhones & AirPods production amid Ukraine crisis & inflation

Sean — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 11:54:54 +0000

Apple is apparently planning on cutting down production of its iPhones and AirPods series of products. The news amid uncertainties caused by the Ukrainian crisis and inflations that may impact demand for its consumer electronic products.

As per a NikkeiAsia report, the Cupertino based giant is now planning on making around 20 percent lesser iPhone SE in the next quarter of this year. The brand might also lower production by around 2 million to 3 million units over its initial plans. This is in line with our previous report. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo had also stated that Apple might lower iPhone SE 2022 production due to lower than expected demand for the smartphone.

For those unaware, the iPhone SE 3 is the latest smartphone from the company, and is the first within its affordable SE series to feature 5G connectivity. Furthermore, the iPhone maker isn’t stopping just there, as it might also be planning on reducing its orders for its AirPods truly wireless earbuds as well. Reportedly, orders to its supply chain might fall by more than 10 million units for this year.

The move follows as the brand is scaling back its inventory levels, again due to weaker than expected demand in the market. In the past, the company had also asked suppliers to make a few million lesser iPhone 13 series models to better adjust for the seasonal demands. So, this news isn’t really a big surprise. But unfortunately, Apple has yet to offer an official statement regarding this matter. So stick around for more updates.

AirPods may soon detect when you skimp out on workouts with Apple Fitness+

Sean — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 08:46:16 +0000

Apple is apparently working on a new technology that would help it detect the users’ body movement and positioning. This technology is being made for future AirPods and will work in tandem with the Fitness+ workouts.

The new system will also be used to assist the Spatial Audio feature, but when paired with the Cupertino based giant’s Fitness+, things get a bit more interesting. For those unaware, Fitness+ is an Apple service that basically helps assists users with their physical exercises. However, this service doesn’t offer a dedicated instructor, so there was no way for the company to know that users actually completed the workout or even if they did it properly.

At the moment, the only reliable method of finding out if you’re working out is through Apple Watch. But now, the iPhone maker has recently patented a “Wireless Ear Bud System With Pose Detection” (Via AppleInsider). As the name suggests, it is a system that can detect the user’s body positions. The patent application describes it as a “host electronic device may communicate wirelessly with the ear buds and may form part of an ear bud system that supplies the user with coaching and feedback while evaluating user performance of a head movement routine or other exercise routine.”

The patent says that the ear buds will gather acceleromete data and may also “use a rotation matrix.” It further adds that “The data in the neutral reference frame may be analyzed using a user head pose look up table to categorize measured user head positions as corresponding to respective user head poses.” Meaning, Apple might be able to track fine movements as well, to detect when, say, an arm is being raised over your head.

A lady mistakenly swallowed an AirPod & it kept working inside her stomach

Jed John Ikoba — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 16:54:33 +0000

Tech giant Apple has been the subject of many amazing feats performed by its products. The feats reflect the ruggedness and hidden capabilities of the various Apple products. The list is becoming quite extensive including the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and even the AirPods.

Figure out how she confused one of these for a painkiller

There is a TikTok video making the rounds about a Boston-based woman who recounted her experience with Apple’s AirPods. The woman with username @iamcarliiib reportedly swallowed one of her AirPods accidentally in place of her drug.

The woman said she had wanted to take the painkiller Ibruprofen, which was on her hand while the left of her AirPods was on the other hand. Obviously, in the throes of pain, she inexplicably switched the drug with the AirPod and realized the mistake immediately she had swallowed the device. The woman said she made several efforts to bring force it out but that did not happen until she eventually excreted the device. An X-ray confirmed that the device was no longer lodged inside her stomach.

The woman also noted that the AirPod was able to record sound from her stomach, as it was still connected to her iPhone before it was ingested. This was indicated in a voice note that she sent to a friend that included gurgling sounds recorded in her stomach. It is unclear whether there were any side effects from the woman accidentally ingesting the AirPod. It would be interesting to get the perspective of Apple on this incident.

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Apple AirPods Pro 2 rumored to hit the market in Q3 2022

Sudhanshu — Sat, 13 Nov 2021 16:52:35 +0000

After the October launch of Apple AirPods 3, rumors have surfaced about the expected launch window for the new high-end AirPods, Apple AirPods Pro2, Q3 in 2022.

These leaks first came to the surface in May when Mike Gurman and Bloomberg‘s Debby Wu reported that Apple would release AirPods Pro 2 with significant updates. Mark Gurman and respected Apple analyst Ming-Chi-Kuo also predicted that the model would come in 2022 without specifying the exact date.

Release dates

AirPods 3:
– 2021 Q3

AirPods Pro 2:
– At least 2022 Q2
Changed to 2022 Q3 https://t.co/YaP39JoC0t

— Tron ❂ (@FrontTron) November 12, 2021

Recently @FronTron has predicted that Apple will release its AirPods Pro 2 in Q3 2022, claiming that the information came from the supply chain. This leak is an amendment to his previous tweet from July, which claimed that the product would be launched in Q2 2022. This information should be taken with a grain of salt, as FronTron has a poor track record regarding Apple leaks and has had better luck with Samsung.

The new AirPods Pro 2 is speculated to give the same audio performance as the current generation but with improved noise cancellation, better battery life, a more rounded shape, and a reduced stem length. It is also predicted that the case will be lighter, and the Pods will have ambient light sensors as well as water resistance.

The AirPods Pro second-generation model is expected to be powered by the Apple H1 chipset, the same chipset that powers most of the AirPods series devices, including the current generation of AirPods Pro.

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Apple loses legal battle against Huawei MatePod trademark

Sean — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 10:46:49 +0000

Apple has just lost a legal attempt to prevent Huawei from trademarking the name “MatePod.” The company sought to block this trademark in China but the CNIPA (Trademark Office of the China National Intellectual Property Administration) rejected the attempt.

AirPods 3

According to an SCMP report, iPhone maker was seeking to prevent the MatePods trademark due to its similarity with its own branding trademarks. This includes product lines that use the term Pod such as iPod, EarPods, and AirPods. The Cupertino based company argued that the Chinese tech giant had “maliciously copied” its trademark, which could even have a negative impact on society.

However, this argument did not sway the CNIPA, which ruled in favor of Huawei. The trademark authority further added that there was “insufficient evidence” that proved Huawei’s applications to be copies. Notably, Huawei was also granted the MatePod trademark, although, Apple still has the right to file for additional appeals to CNIPA to go back on this decision. Unfortunately, Huawei declined to comment on the matter, while Apple has yet to respond to SCMP’s request for a comment.

The ruling from CNIPA did acknowledge the similarities between both firms in aspects like “functionalities, sales channels and target consumers.” However, “the spelling of the trademarks are different, and the differentiations in pronunciation and the overall appearance are distinct. Therefore, the trademarks of the two companies are not similar trademarks on similar products and the coexistence would not cause confusion among the consumers.”

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Future AirPods could monitor body temperature and function as a hearing aid – Report

Jed John Ikoba — Wed, 13 Oct 2021 17:20:06 +0000

The trajectory of the development of audio accessories like earbuds is taking a more powerful function. A report monitored on the Wall Street Journal indicates that Apple may be developing AirPods that could sync with the Apple Watch to take temperature measurements, evaluate body posture, and even function as a hearing aid for those that have a hearing impairment.

As per the report from WSJ, the prototype of the new AirPods indicate that it will measure the body’s core temperature from inside the user’s ear. Furthermore, the in-ear temperature sensors are expected to synchronize with the temperature sensor in the Apple Watch Series 8. The new feature of the device operating as a hearing aid could also have far-reaching implications for those with some hearing difficulties. The Conversation Boost feature is a new function in the AirPods Pro that enables the user to have enhanced volume and voice clarity from persons directly in front of the user. The basic AirPods design consists of microphones, amplifiers, and the necessary processor for enhanced voice clarity and volume.

It is however unclear whether the new designs will approach sound amplification through another route or it will just be an enhancement of the current Conversation Boost feature. The full design of the prototype will have to be seen to ascertain whether it could serve as a hearing aid. Importantly, the battery life of the model has to be improved upon tremendously for all-day use as a hearing aid. The report noted that it is possible that battery expansion considerations could be made by the FDA for such a new class of multi-functional hearing aids.

There is no indication when this rumored AirPods will become a commercial product if indeed it makes its way to the market. No confirmation has been gotten from Apple yet on the matter.

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Apple India offering free AirPods on purchase of iPhone 12, 12 mini

Sudarshan Ravichandran — Sat, 02 Oct 2021 06:17:11 +0000

The two popular eCommerce giants in India, namely Flipkart and Amazon India are offering heavy discounts on Apple products as part of their Big Billion Days and Great Indian Festival sales respectively. If you do not find them interesting, then there’s an interesting deal directly from Apple.

Apple iPhone 12

Last year, Apple finally debut its official online store in India. Since its launch, the company has been not only offering education discounts but also other offers from time to time.

Hence, ahead of Diwali festive season, the Cupertino-based tech giant has now announced a sweet deal on iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini. Customers buying either of these two smartphones will get a free pair of AirPods from October 7.

Interested customers also have an option to opt for AirPods with wireless charging case or AirPods Pro by paying an additional price that will be revealed once the deal goes live.

Apple AirPods

With the launch of the iPhone 13 series, Apple dropped the price of the iPhone 12 series in India. The iPhone 12 currently retails at ₹65,990 (64GB), ₹70,990 (128GB), and ₹80,990 (256GB). Whereas, the iPhone 12 mini costs ₹59,990 (64GB), ₹64,990 (128GB), and ₹74,990 (256GB).

Lastly, the AirPods, the AirPods with wireless charging case, and the AirPods Pro are listed at ₹14,900, ₹64,990, and ₹24,900 respectively on Apple Store right now.

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Apple next gen AirPods to launch later this year, suppliers begin component shipments

Sean — Thu, 24 Jun 2021 09:07:15 +0000

Apple suppliers have apparently began shipping components the for the next generation AirPods. The upcoming earbuds from the company are expected to launch later this year.

According to a paywalled DigiTimes report (Via MacRumors), around seven suppliers of the Cupertino based giant have began shipping orders for circuit board related components. The report added that “Suppliers including Semco, LG Innotek, Kinsus, Unimicron, Nan Ya, Zhen Ding and AT&S have all kicked off their BT substrate shipments for Apple’s next-generation products including the Apple Watch, AirPods and iPhone, which all adopt SiP modules.” The news reportedly arrives from industry sources close to the matter.

The company’s AirPods Pro

As per previous reports, the third generation AirPods, that are set to launch later this year, are expected to feature a similar design as the AirPods Pro but with a shorter stem. Notably, this would mark the first update in the hearables series from the company since 2019. While the design might be similar to the Pro variant, the third gen AirPods will be priced lower that the AirPods Pro. Although, it is likely also to exclude certain high end features like the active noise cancellation (ANC) to lower the price.

Fake Apple AirPods worth $7.16 million seized by US Customs and Border Protection

Jeet — Mon, 17 May 2021 07:07:57 +0000

U. S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Cincinnati have seized three large shipments from China that contained fake Apple AirPods which are estimated to be worth around $7.16 million.

A total of 36,000 fake AirPods have been seized, each shipment containing 12,000 units. Although each package had a declared value of $5,280, the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for all the AirPods would have been $7.16 million had they been genuine.

In the official statement released by the US CBP, it says that after consulting with an import specialist from CBP’s Center of Excellence and Expertise, the items were found to be in violation of CBP trademark and copyright codes and were seized on May 11 and 13.

It goes on to explain that Apple has configuration trademarks on their AirPods and has recorded those trademarks with CBP. It also adds that a company does not have to put the “Apple” wordmark or design on their products to violate these trademarks. In this instance, further inspection of the earbuds revealed that their shape and design replicated the protected Apple configuration.

Apple AirPods is one of the bestselling products from the tech giant with shipments of about 114 million units in 2020. The company has a dedicated anti-counterfeit team working which is tasked with the removal of knock-off Apple products. Last year, the team managed to take down more than a million product listings for fake Apple goods.

Apple rumored to announce 3rd Gen AirPods and HiFi Apple Music tier on May 18

Sean — Fri, 14 May 2021 10:30:21 +0000

A new rumor has recently surfaced that claims that Apple is looking to launch the third generation of its AirPods along with a new high fidelity tier of Apple Music on 18th May 2021 through a press release of its official website.

According to a MacRumors report, the new rumor arrive from YouTuber Luke Miani that shared the news exclusively with AppleTrack. As per the YouTuber, the Cupertino based giant is planning on releasing the next generation AirPods through a Newsroom update along with a refresh to the site. Back in 2019, the iPhone maker had released the all new AirPods Pro in a similar manner through a press release on the website, although this is still an unconfirmed report so take it with a pinch of salt for now.

Talking about the new AirPods, these hearables are expected to feature an updated design that would be similar in design to the high end AirPods Pro but without the active noise cancellation. Alongside these new TWS earbuds, the company is expected to also announce a brand new tier to its music streaming service, dubbed the Apple Music HiFi. This version offers users high fidelity music. The rumor arrives after reports arrived earlier this week that it would be launching a high qualiy streaming service in the “coming weeks.”

Airpods 2019

The report adds that the new tier on the music streaming service that will cost 9.99 US Dollars. This pricing is the same as the individual package that the company offers at the moment. So, it is unclear how this new tier would fit in with its current schemes. Although, codes within the first beta of the upcoming iOS 14.6 update has suggested that the nwe HiFI streaming service will be limited to only compatible hardware. So stay tuned for more updates.

Apple lowers AirPods production plans as sales decline: Report

Sean — Wed, 28 Apr 2021 08:26:15 +0000

Apple is slashing its planning production of its AirPods series of wireless earphones by about 25 to 30 percent this year. The move arrives as growing competition has led to the decline of sales of its popular earbuds.

According to a NikkeiAsia report, the news arrives from sources close to the matter, which believe that the company is expected to make anywhere between 75 million and 85 million units in 2021. This is noticeably lower than the 110 million units that was previously projected for the year. The lowering of productions units is an indicator that the company is wary of the falling demand for its AirPods lineup, which has been the brand’s fastest growing product line since its launch with double digit percentages of growth since 2016.

As per one of the sources, “The most significant order reduction is for the second quarter toward the start of the third quarter. The levels of inventory [in warehouses] and in-store stocks of AirPods are currently high … and demand is not as strong as expected.” Although, the Cupertino based giant is hoping that the new iteration of AirPods that is set to launch later this year will help boost the sales of its products.

Back in 2020, Apple shipped around 72.8 million units of AirPods in total, dominating the wireless Bluetooth true wireless earphones market with a 31 percent market share. Furthermore, its wearables and other accessories also accounted for 11 percent of Apple’s total revenue last year, or about 12.97 billion US Dollars. But despite its lead in the market, its sales expectations still fell short as the company had reportedly asked suppliers to make over 80 to 90 million units of AirPods.

Here’s a cute little washing machine that cleans your Apple AirPods

Sean — Fri, 09 Apr 2021 10:04:36 +0000

Cleaning your Apple AirPods can be difficult if not a gross ordeal. But now, Cardlax brings to us a solution with its tiny washing machine that is built to clean your truly wireless earbuds in just a couple of minutes.

At first, it would seem like a belated April Fool’s prank, but that is really not the case here. The new Cardlax Earbuds Washer is a real thing, with the device’s top opening up to reveal a soft rotating brush on the inside. These are used to remove the dirt from hard to reach regions in your AirPods. To clean your AirPods, one must simply drop the earbuds into the barrel, which has the spinning cylindrical makeup sponge that will quickly clean the hearables.

The developer behind the quirky and cute little product promises that “After Cardlax is done with cleaning your earphones, you will be amazed by how clean and neat they turn. They will look like the way when you first bought them!” Notably, the Cardlax Earbuds Washer works with both the base AirPods along with the higher end AirPods Pro as well. The company also claims that the washer will also be compatible with 99 percent of other wireless earbuds as well.

In a YouTube video, the company even showcases the device’s effectiveness of the washer. The Cardlax EarBuds Washer is currently being offered on Kickstarted and has already raised 380 percent of its funds, as per a CultOfMac report. It is priced at 33 US Dollars, but this will soon go up to 39 US Dollars, with shipping scheduled to begin in June 2021.

Apple to launch new AirPods in third quarter, suppliers begin production

Sean — Fri, 26 Mar 2021 09:56:51 +0000

The next generation of the Apple AirPods are expected to launch in the third quarter of this year, with production for the popular hearables already being underway, as per sources close to the matter.

According to a DigiTimes report (Via MacRumors), the Cupertino based giant is planning on launching the new iteration of the AirPods, its truly wireless earbuds in the third quarter of 2021. The report adds that one of the iPhone maker’s supplier has already began production as well. The supplier in question is the Taiwan based ASE Technology. Unfortunately, there are currently no further details available at this moment regarding the matter.

Although, the timeframe for the launch is in line with previous reports, which were from known Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The analyst believed that the company will begin the production of the third generation of AirPods will begin mass production in the third quarter of this year, which runs from July to September. Prior to this, Kuo believed that the next gen AirPods would launch in the first half of this year, but that seems to no longer be the case.

As per other recent report, the AirPods 3 is expected to feature a design similar to that of the AirPods Pro. This includes having a shorter stem, but without the silicone ear tips or the active noise cancellation. The lack of these features would enable a lower price tag as well. Unfortunately, that’s all we have to go on for now, so stay tuned for more updates regarding this matter.

Apple AirPods 3 renders leak showcases its design; expected to launch later this month

Jeet — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 07:40:54 +0000

Apple AirPods lineup has become very successful and is generating billions of dollars in revenue for the company. To keep the momentum going, the Cupertino-based giant keeps introducing a new models.

Now, Apple is gearing up to launch the third-generation of the AirPods, aka AirPods 3. If the reports are to be believed, then the company is expected to officially launched them at an event later this month, most likely on 23rd March.

Ahead of the launch, we have got our hands on a new set of AirPods 3 renders from suppliers. The design showcased in the renders is likely the final version which will be released in the market for everyone to purchase.

The design is pretty much in line with the previous render leaks, resembling the design of the AirPods Pro. It appears that the AirPods 3 will have a shorter stem and come with replaceable ear tips, similar to what we have seen with the company’s AirPods Pro.

There is also a possibility that the next-generation AirPods may come with support for Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). In that case, Apple to have something major to offer with the next-generation AirPods Pro to justify the “Pro” tag and higher pricing.

If the recent reports are to be believed, then along with the AirPods 3, the company is also expected to launch the second-generation AirPods Pro. Along with these true wireless earphones, Apple will also be launching new iPad models.