Apple is Bringing Active Noise Cancellation to Standard AirPods in 2023

Apple is gearing up for substantial enhancements to its wireless audio range. The company plans to introduce Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology to its standard AirPods next year, alongside the development of a budget-friendly AirPods model.

Adding ANC to Standard Models

In a strategic move to further enhance its wireless audio lineup, Apple is preparing to introduce Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology to its standard AirPods in the upcoming year. This development will be accompanied by the creation of a new budget-friendly AirPods model, marking a significant step in its continuous efforts to cater to a broad range of consumers.

The AirPods product line is anticipated to receive substantial updates in both 2024 and 2025, as reported by Engadget. The initial focus in 2024 will be on the standard AirPods and AirPods Max headphones, as Apple aims to infuse these popular audio accessories with advanced features, including ANC capabilities.

This technology has proven to be highly sought after, as it effectively reduces ambient noise, allowing users to enjoy an immersive and distraction-free listening experience. The subsequent release of a new AirPods Pro model in 2025 will add to the growing portfolio of audio offerings.

Apple's existing AirPods lineup includes the second-generation AirPods, introduced in 2019 with an initial price of $129, and the third-generation model launched in 2021. The latter, priced at $169, boasts an updated design, extended battery life, wireless charging, and improved sound quality.

However, customer preferences have leaned toward the more affordable second-generation version and the premium noise-canceling AirPods Pro, resulting in the third-generation model struggling to gain significant traction in sales.

Apple's decision to integrate ANC technology into its standard AirPods aligns with the company's commitment to delivering cutting-edge audio products to its user base. The forthcoming updates to the AirPods range are expected to cater to diverse consumer preferences, solidifying Apple's presence in the wireless audio market.

Upcoming Models

Apple is poised for a significant AirPods overhaul in 2024, discontinuing the second- and third-generation models to introduce two new variants with diverse specifications. According to Bloomberg, these forthcoming models will exhibit a hybrid design, merging elements from the 2021 AirPods with the aesthetics of the AirPods Pro.

Notably, both models will sport shorter stems, aligning them with the current trend in earbud designs. The pricier of the two will incorporate active noise cancellation (ANC) and include speakers within the case to facilitate Find My alerts, mirroring the capabilities of the existing AirPods Pro.

While both new models will offer an improved fit, replaceable tips are not expected to be a feature. Furthermore, the fourth-generation models will transition to USB-C charging cases, following the pattern established by the Pro models this year.

Rumors have circulated about a potential AirPods Max update, but details have remained elusive. This sheds light on the matter, indicating that Apple plans to transition to USB-C for its over-ear headphones by the end of next year. This transition comes alongside the introduction of new color options, signifying a more modest refresh.

The integration of the H2 chip in the second-gen AirPods Pro, unveiled last year, empowers functionalities such as Adaptive Audio, Personalized Volume, and Conversation Awareness, positioning the AirPods Pro as an innovative device with user-centric auditory features.