‘AirPods Pro’ with noise cancellation could debut this month

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AirPods 2 pairing with iPhone
I've spent MANY hours with these in my ears.
Photo: Ian Fuchs/Cult of Mac

Apple is expected to deliver pricier “AirPods Pro” with noise cancellation later this month, according to a new report.

Images of the buds were leaked by Apple in an iOS 13.2 beta earlier this month. They are expected to offer multiple listening modes and could cost around $100 more than the regular models.

We’ve been hearing for months that Apple is planning new AirPods with noise cancellation and a water-resistant design. And the claims were corroborated in early October by Apple’s own software.

Graphics hidden in iOS 13.2 reveal redesigned wireless buds with soft tips that would aid noise-canceling functionality. The update also referenced difference listening options, like “focus mode.”

Now a new report out of China suggests the new “AirPods Pro” could launch very soon.

AirPods Pro out next month?

China Economic Daily claims Apple will reveal its pricier AirPods before the end of October. They are expected to hit shelves in the U.S. and Europe ahead of the lucrative holiday shopping season.

The so-called AirPods Pro are expected to cost around $260, supply chain source say. That’s $100 more than regular AirPods when purchased without the optional Wireless Charging Case.

The report doesn’t go into any further detail about the buds. But other reports have hinted at an upgraded audio chip for even better sound, and extended Bluetooth range.

Don’t hold your breath

We speculated when the new AirPods leaked that they could be a high-end alternative to Apple’s existing wireless buds, rather than a third-generation replacement. And that makes a lot of sense.

Not everyone wants noise cancellation and wouldn’t be happy paying extra for it. And a price increase could have a negative impact on sales of one of Apple’s most successful accessories.

That doesn’t mean any of this is guaranteed, though. China Economic Daily isn’t exactly a trusted source of Apple rumors, so it’s probably best we take this report with a pinch of salt for now.

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