Industry insiders anticipate Apple to start production of two fourth generation AirPods models in May 2024, with a planned release window in September or October. The timeline aligns with a Bloomberg-backed report shared by Mark Gurman, as cited in a Bloomberg newsletter. The expectation is that Apple will roll out both AirPods 4 variants in quick succession, bringing a refreshed design and a host of new features to the lineup.
According to Gurman, the two AirPods 4 models will embrace a new aesthetic and superior sound quality. A key upgrade is a redesigned charging case that will adopt USB-C connectivity, aligning with broader tech industry shifts and Apple’s own accessory ecosystem. The premium edition would introduce a built-in speaker for active noise cancellation status updates and would enable voice-based location tracking through the Find My app, giving users a clearer sense of where the device is at a glance.
The chatter around product lifecycle also includes a plan to retire the second and third generation AirPods. Gurman notes that Apple intends to discontinue these older models later in the year, following the launch of the AirPods 4 family. This move would streamline the product line and highlight the new capabilities arriving with the fourth generation.
Gurman also weighed in on the anticipated AirPods Pro refresh, suggesting it would not debut before 2025. The new Pro variant is expected to carry forward high-end features and may introduce the hearing aid mode and a hearing test feature. These capabilities are anticipated to be part of the broader iOS 18 ecosystem, signaling a deeper integration of accessibility tools with the current AirPods Pro technology.
In a separate note, there have been broader discussions about Apple’s position in AI and neural network development. Reports indicate the company had faced pressure to leverage established platforms from other players, with references to using external neural network solutions to stay competitive in the fast-moving mobile AI landscape. This context helps explain the emphasis on hardware updates and software refinements that accompany forthcoming AirPods releases, as Apple continues to integrate smarter assistants, improved sensing, and more seamless connectivity into its wearable audio devices.
Overall, the anticipated AirPods 4 family is shaping up to deliver tangible upgrades across design, sound quality, connectivity, and convenience features. While the exact specifications may evolve, the core message remains clear: Apple is prioritizing a modernized charging interface, enhanced user feedback through in-device messaging, and stronger location awareness to improve the everyday user experience. The strategic timing around the summer-to-fall window positions the new models to capture back-to-school demand and the ongoing appetite for premium wireless audio in North America.