Apple Planning New Audio Devices from AirPods and Beats Subsidiary
Apple may be preparing to release new audio devices from its AirPods and Beats subsidiary. Leak experts recently discovered string references in the new iOS 16.4 pre-release that hint at upcoming models.
Beats Studio Buds+
One of the new models is a Beats Studio Buds+ that seems to be an improved version of the compact totally wired buds in the Studio Buds line. This upgraded model is expected to replace the predecessors released in 2021 and includes Active Noise Cancellation, as well as Apple’s audio sharing and fast device switching. However, it may use its own ICs for these features, rather than Apple’s H1 or W1 chips. The improvements may also relate to the quality of the ANC and the transparency mode.
New AirPods?
Another reference leak in the iOS 16.4 RC version discovered references to two model numbers to which no device is currently assigned. These are AirPods with model number A3048 and an AirPods case with model number A2968. This development is intriguing, as there is currently little evidence of new AirPods from Apple, other than the rumored AirPods Max 2, which is not expected until 2024.
Conclusion
While there is no confirmation from Apple yet, the string references discovered in the iOS 16.4 pre-release indicate that Apple may be releasing upgrades to the Beats and AirPods audio devices in the near future. Whether or not these devices come equipped with Apple’s standard chips remains to be seen. Rest assured, Apple fans will anxiously await any updates on these developments to see if they can expect to purchase new audio devices from the tech giant anytime soon.
