AirPods 3 release date, wish list: 3 things to expect and 1 unlikely feature from Apple’s next truly wireless earbuds

One of Apple’s biggest successes in 2019 was the announcement of AirPods Pro, but it might be too pricey for some consumers. There may still be a significant demand for a new truly wireless earbuds from Apple with a less intimidating price tag that might be released as the AirPods 3.

AirPods 3 would be the latest entry-level offering

The mere use of the “Pro” labeling in Apple’s latest truly wireless earbuds suggests that the vanilla AirPods lineup will not end. It is not far-fetched to expect that the AirPods 3 is still in the pipeline and would follow the second-generation AirPods that is more than a year old now. Meanwhile, the release of AirPods 3 would also mean that its predecessor will go obsolete.

AirPods 3 could feature major design changes

There might not be many upgrades that could be expected in the hardware and features aspects of the AirPods 3 if it is going to be released as a budget option. However, Apple could make it an enticing purchase by revamping its design.

The company has already introduced a smaller bodywork in the AirPods Pro, so it would not make sense to unveil a new AirPods that looks the same as the older models. Since Apple managed to make the Pro smaller even with the same H1 chip, there is a good chance for the AirPods 3 to undergo a similar design overhaul.

AirPods 3 could be priced below $200

Again, if Apple will not end the vanilla AirPods lineup, it might as well be a cheaper option so it will not clash with the intended market for the AirPods Pro. There are suggestions that the AirPods 3 could be priced at $200 or lower. To compare, the AirPods 2 is currently available with the basic charging case for $159 and with the wireless charging case for $199.

AirPods 3 would not sport an active noise cancellation mode

What is very unlikely to happen for the AirPods 3 is the addition of the active noise cancellation mode. This tech, even for other earbuds brands, is offered as an exclusive feature for premium models. The active noise cancellation and its accompanying transparency mode may be an AirPods Pro-exclusive for a while.

AirPods 3 possible release date

Apple has been really silent about its plans for the AirPods 3 and even for the next AirPods Pro. Many are expecting the AirPods 3 to be announced within this year. However, everything is still very tentative right now considering how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the tech industry.