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The rumors surrounding new AirPods have never been more contradictory than this year. While experienced analysts talk about delays, a newcomer claims they are ready and could now be unveiled by Apple at any time - the AirPods 3.
The well-known Youtuber and newcomer among the leakers, Jon Prosser, has already revealed some Apple products in advance - with success. Currently, in addition to new iMac models and a sixth generation Apple TV, new AirPods are also on his alleged leak list. Two days ago, he claimed that Apple had completed new AirPods that are ready to ship immediately. Accordingly, an announcement could be made at any time. So far, so good. Around two weeks ago, the long-time Apple analyst, Ming-Chi Kuo, made a prediction regarding AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro 2 that contradicts Prosser's statements. According to Kuo, the AirPods 3 will be released in the first half of 2021 and will use a system-in-package design. Accordingly, they would have a similar design to the AirPods Pro on the inside. In terms of appearance and functionality, the AirPods 3 will be similar to the AirPods 2. Prosser himself has not yet been able to provide any information on design and functionality.
The newcomer is stirring up the rumor mill
Now the Japanese news site Nikkei Asian Review has published an article that supports Kuo's prediction. According to it, the update of the existing AirPods 2 will be delayed due to the global health crisis. The report states:
Meanwhile, the coronavirus outbreak has also hit demand for AirPods as Apple has been forced to close many of its stores. Apple has instructed its suppliers to cut production for the first half of 2020 by more than 10% from the initial orders of around 45 million units that Apple placed in January, according to people familiar with the production plan. The plan to launch an AirPods refresh later this year is also currently affected and delayed by the COVID-19 disruptions, they said.
But Nikkei is not alone in this statement. DigiTimes has also reported delays. This means that at the moment everything looks as if new AirPods will not be released until next year at the earliest. But who knows, perhaps Prosser will be right once again and be right on this point too. Let's wait and see. Do you want new headphones? Then take a look at our Amazon Storefront over – there we have all the current AirPods as well as Beats Models summarized for you. (Photo by Eremin / Bigstockphoto)
