Waterproof AirPods 3 could launch this year

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AirPods wall display is on show in New York.
AirPods are reportedly getting some design changes.
Photo: Ste Smith/Cult of Mac

Apple updated the design of its AirPods in-ear headphones this spring but reportedly isn’t resting on its laurels. A redesigned third-generation version will be out later this year, according to a market-analysis firm.

Analysts at Wedbush predict AirPods 3 will be the first waterproof version. At this point, it’s not clear if that means they’ll be intended to be used while swimming, though that sometimes happens anyway. It’s possible; Apple Watch Series 2 or later are designed for in-pool use.

The next version of Apple’s wireless earbuds will supposedly include other design improvements, though the Wedbush analysts didn’t reveal any details.

Previous, un-related rumors have pointed to noise cancellation being added to these tiny headphones.

Speeding up AirPods development

If this report is correct, then Apple is really stepping up the rate at which it updates its AirPods line. The original version came out in late 2016, and the first update wasn’t for over two years. This next one is supposedly coming a mere 6-to-9 months after that.

That said, AirPods 2 are more like AirPods 1.5. There were no external changes. Internally, an H1 chip was added to bring “Hey Siri” support. Battery life was also increased.

Via: 9to5mac

 

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