The third-generation AirPods will still arrive before the end of this year, according to DigiTimes.The Sellers Research Group (that’s me) thinks we’ll see them released in mid- to late-October.
The release will be noted by press release only. The AirPods 3 were expected to be unveiled along with the iPhone 13 and Apple Watch Series 7 at the September 14 “California Streaming” event. That didn’t happen.
The “AirPods 3” are expected to look pretty much the same as the current version, but with a shortened stem, adjusted earbud body and an AirPods Pro-style charging case. No word on when an update to the AirPods Pro might arrive, though September/October is possible. The AirPods Pro 2 will reportedly have a round design and eliminate the short stem that currently sticks out from the bottom.
The AirPods 3 mock-up is courtesy of Mashable.