Alleged image claims to show third-generation AirPods and case

A new image claims to offer our first real-world glimpse at Apple’s next-gen AirPods. The image, shared by 52audio, showcases both the “AirPods” and the charging case for what the site claims to be the third iteration of wireless headphones.

52audio has in the past shared images purporting to feature different parts of the third generation “AirPods”. Specifically, the site shared in November an x-ray image claiming to be the new “ AirPods, ” but it was later found to be a compressed x-ray image of the AirPods Pro from the current generation.

The image shared today, however, is consistent with what we know so far about third-generation “AirPods”. Bloomberg reported that the new ‌AirPods‌ will take design cues from the ‌AirPods Pro‌ by having a smaller shaft and silicone tips, but they would lack high-end features such as active noise cancellation.

According to 52audio and a caption provided of the leaked image, the new “AirPods” will feature a trigger system, the same technology as the “AirPods Pro”. The system is designed to equalize the pressure in your ear to eliminate any discomfort associated with using “AirPods” for an extended period of time. Based on the picture, the charging case will be less rectangular than the case that came with the ‌AirPods Pro‌, and more in line with the original ‌AirPods‌ case, but with the addition of an LED charging indicator on the front .

Third generation “AirPods” can also borrow touch controls from “AirPods Pro”. According to the accompanying 3D renderings 52audio, each new earbud will feature tactile control surfaces, instead of the single and double-tap controls on current “AirPods” (first and second generations).

The new ‌AirPods‌ are expected to deliver the same five hours of continuous audio playback as the second-generation ‌AirPods‌, according to the latest report. This differs from the details previously provided by Bloomberg, however, who claims that Apple is looking to improve battery life on the new model beyond the current five hours of audio playback. Additionally, the new report claims that support for Spatial Audio, a feature currently exclusive to “AirPods Pro,” is “highly” likely for newer “AirPods.”

Apple analysts Ming-Chi Kuo said in November that mass production of the new “AirPods” would take place in the first half of the year. According to 52audio, the new “AirPods” are expected to debut in early March. This week, BloombergMark Gurman has poured cold water on speculation that Apple will host an event on March 16. He left the door open for an event on a different date in March, however.

Leaker Jon Prosser, who has a mixed track record of reporting on Apple’s projects, recently reported that an event on March 16 (now unlikely) will make headlines on AirTags and the new iPads. Apple released the ‌AirPods Pro‌ via a press release in 2019, so it remains to be seen how and when Apple will release the next-generation ‌AirPods‌.