Apple planning biggest AirPods release yet in 2024; two new models with ANC, USB-C cases expected

Biggest AirPods launch expected in 2024

• Apple is reportedly planning the biggest AirPods launch to date with around 20 million to 25 million units, according to a report by Bloomberg. Production for the new units is said to start in May this year. 
• The new AirPods models are codenamed B768(E) and B768(M) and will succeed the second-gen and third-gen models. Here, the 'E' stands for "entry" and 'M' stands for "mid-tier" suggesting both will be priced differently.
• The report adds that the upcoming AirPods will come with a new design, a more comfortable fit, and USB-C cases.
• The mid-tier AirPods model will be more expensive, and feature active noise cancellation along with Find My speakers. This is the first in the non-Pro series of AirPods. The non-Pro AirPods will also be getting an update after more than two years. 

This year, only the regular AirPods lineup will get upgrades. The Pro lineup is slated to get a new version next year. A more interesting product is also in the works, and this one will be equipped with "low-resolution cameras that can scan the environment around a user." This particular pair of AirPods will launch a few years down the line. 

In addition to new AirPods, Apple is also reportedly planning dedicated software upgrades that will arrive with iOS 18. These features include a hearing aid mode, and a hearing-test for AirPods. 

There's no launch timeline confirmed yet but we might see the new AirPods later this year alongside the iPhone 16 series.