This article may contain affiliate links. Learn more on our Partner Program page.
Earlier this week, Apple introduced the iPhone 12 series, the HomePod mini and two chargers with MagSafe technology. But there is no sign of the AirTags and AirPods Studio.
Originally, it was expected that Apple would present the leaked AirTags and AirPods Studio alongside the iPhone 12 series. At least that is what leakers had promised in advance. But Jon Prosser, a newcomer among Apple leakers, caused disillusionment a few days before the event. According to his information, Apple has postponed the presentation of the AirTags until spring 2021. With regard to the AirPods Studio, the unveiling is expected to be via press release or as part of a November event. But now he has spoken out again and Apples latest plans. According to them, the AirPods Studio are now to be postponed and the AirTags brought forward. There are said to be changes with regard to the over-ear headphones. This means that according to the leaker, the new audio accessories could be ready for shipping in December at best - with a lot of luck.
AirTags launch: Apple needs to “feel” it
Things are apparently different with regard to the AirTags. According to Prosser, Apple could introduce the small trackers next month with iOS 14.3, as the third point version of iOS 14 is supposed to have corresponding features. This is stated in a Tweet:
Now that AirPods Studio has been shelved, it looks like Apple will introduce AirTags after all.
Currently, it is scheduled to be released with iOS 14.3 (iOS 14.3 will include features important to AirTags), and iOS 14.3 is scheduled to be released next month.
When asked why Apple is still holding back the AirTags, Prosser explained in a follow-up post:
Unlike AirPods Studio, AirTags are and were finished & ready. We're not even talking about the production schedule for this product at this point.
It basically depends on when Apple *feels* it's the right time to release it.
It remains to be seen whether Prosser will once again be right. Whether Apple will actually release the AirTags in November is up in the air. The launch of the very first Apple Silicon Mac, on the other hand, is considered certain. So if Apple releases a third keynote, it can be assumed that not only a brand new Mac will be released – the alternative would of course be a simple press release. (via Jon Prosser)
