Apple Plans to Unveil Dual Versions of Non-Pro AirPods in 2024

Apple plans on offering two different versions of its non-Pro AirPods next year. The third-generation version lacks major features that differentiate it from the second-gen AirPods which are priced at $129.

Losing Sales to Wireless Earbuds Rivals

Without something compelling to give them the incentive to buy the third-gen AirPods, consumers choose the cheapest model. Apple plans to address the challenge of losing sales to competitors with competitively priced wireless earbuds boasting features comparable to the AirPods Pro.

According to Phone Arena, the solution involves introducing two new non-Pro AirPods models in the coming year.

Anticipate the arrival of the fourth-generation AirPods, both featuring updated earbuds, redesigned charging cases, and the inclusion of a USB-C port. Notably, one of the 2024 AirPods models will incorporate a feature borrowed from the pricier AirPods Pro.

In a notable shift, the higher-end non-Pro AirPods are expected to offer Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for the first time, making this feature accessible to consumers at a more affordable price point.

This strategic move aims to provide an incentive for consumers to opt for the higher-priced fourth-generation AirPods. Looking ahead, Apple is slated to release the third-generation AirPods Pro model in 2025.

Anticipated changes are on the horizon for yet another AirPods model next year-the over-ear AirPods Max. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman suggests that Apple's current Max units don't yield sufficient revenue to justify substantial investments in hardware, software enhancements, and new features.

However, the forthcoming strategy involves introducing the AirPods Max with a USB-C charger, replacing the existing Lightning port, and potentially introducing new color variants. The launch of these updated AirPods Max is expected to coincide with the unveiling of the two new AirPods models.

Other Upgrades

Apple Inc. is gearing up for a dynamic 2024, and there's a notable shift in strategy. Despite the iPhone reigning as the cornerstone of the company's product lineup for over 15 years, the upcoming year is set to divert attention to the myriad of other offerings in Apple's expansive portfolio.

This strategic shift underscores Apple's commitment to diversification and innovation beyond its iconic smartphone.

Next year, the iPhone is set to receive an upgrade, maintaining its status as Apple's flagship product and a key revenue generator. However, substantial alterations are not on the horizon; Apple intends to preserve the design of the iPhone 15, with the Pro version seeing an increase in screen sizes.

Apple experienced a plateau in sales over the past year, following a surge in consumer tech spending during the pandemic. Notably, all major product segments, iPhone, Mac, iPad, & wearables, saw declines in fiscal 2023. The only bright spot for Apple was its services business.

While Wall Street analysts remain cautious about a substantial resurgence in Apple product sales for the current fiscal year, the company will, at the very least, have new technologies to showcase.