Apple’s second generation of AirPods (likely to be called AirPods 2) is expected to arrive this spring and rumors about the device have been surfacing over the last few months. Rumor has it that the AirPower wireless charging pad will arrive around the same time.
According to MySmartPrice’s sources, the AirPods 2 will have a better bass response and both of the earbuds and the case will have a matte coating to provide an enhanced grip. This coating might be similar to the one that is used on the glass back of Google Pixel 3 phones. This feature is essential since many people complain that the AirPods fall out of their ears often.
Photo: First generation AirPods / Photo: Apple
And the report also claims that the AirPods 2 will have health monitoring features such as heart rate. Plus the AirPods 2 are expected to have “Hey Siri” support so you can activate the digital assistant without having to use your hands.
In terms of battery life, AirPods 2 is expected to be about the same as before. This means you will be able to use the headphones for a few hours before having to charge it up again.
The color options are expected to be white and black. And the price is estimated to be $200, which is $40 higher than the current retail price.
MySmartPrice added said that the AirPower wireless charging pad is expected to be thicker than originally planned as it will be using an internal 8-7-7 coil configuration. Once Apple announces the availability of the AirPower wireless charging pad, the company is also planning to unveil a new wireless charging case for the first-generation AirPods as an upgrade purchase.
Photo: AirPower / Photo: Apple
“The AirPower will be slightly thicker than originally expected, apparently because of the 8-7-7 coil configuration,” says the report. “Apple is said to be working on a few ‘exclusive features’ as well for the AirPower, although they will not be available until iOS 13 is released. As for pricing, the AirPower wireless charging pad is likely to be priced around $150 at launch.”
When will the new AirPods be announced? Typically, Apple announces its new hardware products every September, including iPhones and Apple Watch. And the original AirPods were revealed on September 2016. So based on that timeframe, I don’t expect it to become available until then unless Apple pulls a fast one and announces it earlier.
According to iPhonehellas, a Greek news website focused on Apple, it is rumored that Apple could potentially unveil the AirPods 2 on March 22nd. However, BuzzFeed News is reporting that Apple’s focus for the event in March will be for a new service called “Apple News Magazines,” which will allow users to subscribe to magazines and newspapers for $10 per month. This product was developed through Apple’s acquisition of Texture.
Note: This article will be updated with new information as it comes in about the AirPods 2.
