As Apple prepares for its highly anticipated “It’s Glowtime” iPhone 16 event on Monday, September 9 (10 AM PT/1 PM ET/6 PM BST, or 3 AM September 10 AEST), new insights have emerged regarding their plans for new AirPods models. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, two fresh AirPods models are set to be introduced, while two others are expected to be delayed.

^{What Mark Gurman Revealed About Apple’s New AirPods Models}

In his latest report, Mark Gurman offers some of his most comprehensive predictions about the future of new AirPods models, just days before the next Apple event. While it’s not official confirmation of a launch, Gurman’s reputation as a reliable source for Apple product leaks adds significant weight to his claims. If you trust his track record with iOS products, it’s hard to ignore what might be on the horizon for these Apple AirPods 2024 releases.

Here’s a breakdown of Gurman’s predictions regarding the upcoming AirPods lineup and the changes we might see from Apple’s new AirPods models.

^{The Two New AirPods Models: A Significant Upgrade}

Apple is reportedly gearing up to release two updated AirPods models designed to replace the second-generation entry-level AirPods (launched in 2019) and the mid-range third-generation AirPods (AirPods 3). According to Gurman, both new versions of these AirPods models will sport a design reminiscent of the AirPods Pro, although it remains unclear whether they’ll mirror the 2019 Pro version or the second-generation AirPods Pro 2.

What’s certain is that these refreshed AirPods models will come with a USB-C charging case and deliver enhanced audio performance. The difference between the two new AirPods models will be more than skin-deep, as Apple is expected to give the mid-tier option a more advanced case equipped with a speaker. This addition will allow for easier tracking via the Find My app, and noise-cancellation features are likely to match those found in the AirPods Pro.

^{A Push into Hearing Health}

One of the more innovative aspects of Apple’s new AirPods strategy is their focus on hearing health. As part of an ongoing effort to make AirPods models a viable alternative to traditional hearing aids, Apple has been exploring ways to integrate hearing tests directly into the device. This initiative, codenamed “Yodel,” has reportedly encountered delays and may not be available immediately after the event. However, it signals Apple’s broader ambition to expand its new AirPods models’ functionality into the healthcare space.

^{AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Max: Coming, But Not Yet}

Although a new version of AirPods Pro is in the pipeline, it won’t be unveiled during the upcoming event. Gurman indicates that these third-generation AirPods Pro—likely featuring an updated design and enhanced active noise cancellation—could arrive as early as next year. Meanwhile, Apple has also been working on updating the AirPods Max, which are expected to come in new colors and with a USB-C port to comply with EU regulations. Unfortunately, we won’t see these new AirPods models on Monday either, as Gurman notes that inventory levels of the current AirPods Max models remain high.

^{Unexpected Battery Glitch Resolved}

In a surprising twist, Gurman reports that Apple recently discovered a software issue in their upcoming new AirPods models, which was causing rapid battery drainage. Fortunately, the glitch was addressed before the devices were shipped to retailers. Additionally, users can look forward to an update that enhances gesture controls on AirPods Pro 2, aligning with the broader rollout of iOS 18.

^{Price Speculation and Release Details}

While Gurman hasn’t provided specific pricing details, it’s likely the new mid-tier AirPods models will be similarly priced to the current AirPods 3, which sell for around $179 / £169 / AU$279. As for the entry-level version, speculation points to a more affordable price—potentially in the $99 / £99 / AU$149 range—offering competition to rivals like the Nothing Ear (1).

Though it’s disappointing we won’t see the AirPods Pro 3 or AirPods Max 2 at the event, it’s been more than two years since the launch of the third-generation AirPods models, and two new models are a welcome addition to the lineup. Given Apple’s history of iterative innovation, these updates could be a game-changer for both casual listeners and those looking to improve their hearing experience.