Apple reportedly releasing new AirPods 'as soon as this year'

From CNET: A new version of Apple's AirPod headphones could be released "as soon as this year," according to a report from Bloomberg.

The headphones will have an upgraded wireless chip designed by Apple for managing Bluetooth connections, according to sources familiar with the matter. You'll also be able to call up Siri by saying "Hey Siri," instead of physically tapping the headphones.

There are also plans for a subsequent water-resistant model, to be released as early as next year. Like the latest iPhones, they'll likely be designed to handle splashes of water and rain, as opposed to being submerged in water. Apple has also previously said that it's releasing a wireless AirPod charging case.

AirPods launched in 2016. Despite initially being the center of many jokes online, they've since dominated the market. At least 85 cents of every dollar spent on fully wireless headphones in the US went to Apple last year, according to NPD.

The sources in Bloomberg's story said Apple's plans could change or be postponed. Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

View: Article @ Source Site