Now may be a good time to get new earphones. Apple's second-generation AirPods, dependable and compatible with other Apple devices, are now on sale. Amazon and Walmart sell them for $89, or $40 off. This is the best value this year, $20 more than the lowest Black Friday price.
AirPods 2 comes with a Lightning charging case, great sound quality, and five hours of battery life. The case can recharge them five times, extending their use to 24 hours. Moreover, users can use Siri hands-free, and AirPods are easy to pair up and move between Apple devices, per ZDNet.
A Great Deal for Those Who Seek Superb Earphones
Despite lacking IPX4 water protection and MagSafe charging, Apple's last-gen entry-level earbuds give great sound and voice calls. According to The Verge, these AirPods variants provide extended battery life and consistent performance while enabling Apple device owners to switch between iOS devices rapidly, use Siri hands-free, and use other useful features. Though the newer AirPods Pro include noise cancellation, AirPods 2 are still a solid choice for casual listeners, currently at a discounted price.
It is important to consider your tastes and needs if you're deciding to choose between AirPods models. First, decide if you like noise-isolating active noise cancellation or open earphones with a more natural feel and no silicone ear tips, according to CNET. The price difference between AirPods variants should not be the only issue. Instead, highlight the main differences between the models.
Overall, active noise cancellation is the most important feature in regular use, making it crucial when choosing AirPods, which is offered by the AirPods 2 now on sale.
Apple wireless AirPods are tested during a media event at Bill Graham Civic Auditorium in San Francisco, California on September 07, 2016. (Photo : JOSH EDELSON/AFP via Getty Images)
Apple May Release New AirPods in Late 2024: Report
Meanwhile, a report from Macworld stated that Apple may introduce new AirPods this year. Apple may introduce a non-Pro variant with active noise canceling to compete with its premium ones. The new AirPods will include USB-C charging cases and a redesign. The report also cites Bloomberg's Mark Gurman estimating that Apple's suppliers are prepping for autumn launch production. However, if you aim for the latest models, consider waiting till later this year for the new AirPods.
The 3rd-generation AirPods debuted in October 2021, two years after the second generation. Based on this timeframe, spring 2024 was expected for an upgrade. Gurman suggests production will begin in May with a debut in September to coincide with the iPhone launch.
Apple offers standard, Pro, and Max AirPods. Although Apple usually releases a new series of AirPods every year, not all of the categories are updated.
The only AirPods upgrade in 2023 was a tiny tweak to the 2nd-generation AirPods Pro. Apple didn't consider the improvements important enough for a generational classification. In September, the 2nd-generation AirPods Pro debuted. It has enhanced dustproofing and a USB-C charging case instead of a lightning connector.
Reports claim that the 4th-generation AirPods will have two variants, B768(E) and B768(M), a less expensive and more sophisticated version. Gurman predicts a shorter-stemmed 4th-generation AirPods design like the 3rd-gen and AirPods Pro. Additionally, USB-C charging and improved case designs are planned. Both products will have improved audio quality; however, only the higher-end model may provide active noise cancellation. It may also have a Find My Alerts speaker.
