Leak reveals details about Apple AirPods Pro and AirPods Max with new design and USB-C

Bloomberg editor Mark Gurman, who has proven to be a very reliable source in the past, has revealed detailed information about Apple's AirPods roadmap. According to his recent article, the second and third generation AirPods will be replaced next year by a fourth generation, the design of which will look like a mixture of the AirPods and AirPods Pro.

Apple will reportedly offer two variants of these AirPods, with active noise cancellation reserved for the more expensive model. This model will also receive a new charging case with an integrated speaker that is intended to make it easier to locate the earbuds via Apple's "Find My" app. Moreover, wearing comfort is said to be improved, but Apple is sticking with a design without replaceable silicone earbuds. The charging case for both variants features a USB-C instead of Lightning port - a necessity so that the completely wireless earphones can be sold in the EU.

Towards the end of next year, Apple is expected to launch a successor to the AirPods Max, which will get a USB-C port and new colors, but hardly any new features otherwise. Lastly, the next generation AirPods Pro will supposedly be introduced in 2025 with a brand new Bluetooth SoC, improved sound and a fresh design. Apple is currently said to be working on a number of health features for the wireless earphones; an Apple patent even mentions a charging case with a touchscreen.