Apple’s highly-anticipated “It’s Glowtime” event is set to take place tomorrow, September 9, 2024, and while the iPhone 16 series will be the star of the show, there’s a lot of buzz surrounding the AirPods updates as well. Fans can expect some exciting upgrades for Apple’s non-Pro AirPods, with two new models likely in the works.
We’ve already covered all that is expected from the iPhone 16 series and Apple Watch Series 10 this year. Here, we will dive into the AirPods 4 (and budget AirPods SE) to give you a full list of updates—probably—coming to Apple’s entry-level (non-Pro) hearable product line.
Apple event on September 9, 2024: When, where to watch it live
The Apple Glowtime event will be live streamed from Apple Park at 10:30 PM IST, and can be watched on apple.com, YouTube, or through the Apple TV app.
AirPods 4: What’s new?
According to a Bloomberg report, Apple is prepping to replace its entry-level second-gen and mid-tier third-gen AirPods with fresh versions, both of which will seemingly receive significant upgrades. A key change? A design overhaul that aligns more closely with the look of the AirPods Pro. They’ll also come with a new case featuring USB-C charging—making them future-proof for new regulations—and improved audio quality.
But the mid-tier AirPods 4 will go a step further. Reports suggest these will come with a high-end case equipped with a speaker, allowing users to locate their earbuds more easily via Apple’s Find My feature (same as the AirPods Pro). To top it off, the mid-tier model will introduce noise cancellation, which brings it closer to AirPods Pro-level functionality.
While not confirmed, there’s speculation that Apple might also unveil an AirPods SE model—a budget-friendly replacement of the ageing second-gen model with core features but without the bells and whistles of the mid-tier or Pro versions. This could be Apple’s way of capturing the more price-conscious consumer base.
Bigger push into hearing health
Apple has been making strides in the hearing health space, and there are rumours that the AirPods 4 will integrate more advanced features in this area. Internally codenamed “Yodel,” these new functionalities could eventually allow AirPods to double as hearing aids or assist with hearing tests. However, some delays mean this might not launch immediately.
What about AirPods Pro and AirPods Max?
While the AirPods 4 and SE are the main focus, a new version of AirPods Pro is also expected next year with even better noise cancellation. Meanwhile, AirPods Max will get an upgrade, including new colours and a switch to USB-C.
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