As Apple gears up for WWDC 2024, anticipation is high for the unveiling of iOS 18, which could bring significant enhancements to AirPods, particularly the AirPods Pro 2.
Here are ten potential upgrades that could enhance our AirPods experience.
1. Smarter Conversations
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed an AI-powered feature that surpasses Apple’s Conversation Awareness. While Apple’s feature helps by turning off noise cancellation and boosting the speaker’s voice, the researchers’ AI isolates the speech and cancels out all other noise. This advanced noise cancellation could be a game-changer.
2. Customizable Noise Cancellation
AI could offer nuanced noise cancellation, allowing users to selectively let certain sounds through, such as a baby crying, birdsong, or emergency vehicle sirens. The University of Washington’s “semantic hearing” system is exploring these possibilities.
3. Enhanced Environmental Awareness
AI could make the already impressive noise cancellation of AirPods Pro 2 even smarter. Combining Adaptive Audio, which adjusts volume based on the environment, with location awareness and customizable noise cancellation could provide a finely tuned experience whether you’re at home, in the office, or commuting.
4. Superior EQ Options
Apple’s mobile music offerings lack customizable EQ settings, an issue dating back to the iPod era. While other brands provide companion apps for sound customization, Apple’s Music app could benefit from AI-driven EQ adjustments, similar to the AI features in Logic Pro’s latest version, like Stem Splitter and ChromaGlow.
5. Live Translation
One of the most exciting potential features is real-time translation, turning AirPods into a Babel Fish-like device. While demanding in terms of processing, this feature could utilize the iPhone to handle the heavy lifting, similar to Google’s Pixel Buds.
6. Near-Lossless Audio
AirPods could support higher-res wireless audio with newer Bluetooth technology, providing a near-lossless audio experience akin to aptX or Sony’s LDAC. This improvement would make the most of lossless tracks on Apple Music and other services.
7. Advanced Shazam Integration
While iOS’s built-in Shazam is clever, it could be enhanced to recognize songs from humming or singing, similar to Google’s YouTube Music app. AI can excel at matching the user’s version to the right song in its database.
8. AI-Enhanced Background Sounds
AI could enhance the iPhone’s Background Sounds feature by allowing users to customize ambient noise. Instead of generic sounds like “Ocean” or “Rain,” users could request specific combinations, like “Rain with ambient synths,” directly through Siri.
9. Hearing Aid Mode
Rumors suggest Apple will push into the hearing aid market, leveraging new regulations that allow over-the-counter sales. AirPods could incorporate more accessibility tools for the hard of hearing, possibly including support for Bluetooth Auracast.
10. Universal Audio Settings
A handy feature would be the ability to independently set volume levels for different apps and notifications. This would prevent jarring audio transitions when switching between music, podcasts, social media, and games.
Upcoming AirPods Hardware
While new AirPods models are expected this year, they might not debut at WWDC. Reports suggest two successors for the AirPods 3, with the AirPods 4 coming in two versions: a regular set and a more affordable “AirPods Lite” at around $99, likely launching in September or October alongside iOS 18. The AirPods Max 2 might appear later in 2024 or even in 2025, while AirPods Pro 3 are expected in 2025.
These potential upgrades and new models highlight how Apple’s focus on AI and user experience could significantly enhance the functionality and appeal of AirPods.
