Next-gen AirPods enter production in August; September launch probably

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A new report suggests that the long-rumored next-generation AirPods, with a design similar to the current AirPods Pro, will enter production next month. They will likely be announced at the same time as this year’s iPhone lineup.

Speaking of which, the same report reiterates previous reports that Apple will return to its traditional September launch for all four models…

Nikkei Asia Report.

In addition to changing its iPhone lineup, Apple is also preparing updated versions of other products for release in the second half of 2021 in hopes of capitalizing on the expected economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic. These include the MacBook Pro and a new version of AirPods, the company’s popular wireless earbuds, which will start production next month.

Mass production of this year’s new iPhones is also set to begin in August, in line with Apple’s usual pre-pandemic production schedule. Apple could produce up to 95 million units between then and the end of January, although sources have confirmed that such forecasts are under review. For the whole of 2021, Apple aims to build up to 230 million iPhones, including current and new models, an 11% increase over last year, sources told Nikkei Asia.

It was already clear that this year would be the last year for the iPhone mini. The iPhone 12 mini is said to have seen disappointing sales, with Apple cutting production, and we’ve heard several reports that it will be dropped from the lineup from 2022.

Nikkei echoes this, adding that Apple intends an updated version of the iPhone SE to effectively replace it, by adding a faster processor and 5G capabilities.

All iPhones released next year will be able to support 5G networks, including Apple’s first revamp of its budget device in two years, as the company looks to boost sales of a product that still accounts for more than half of its revenue.

Insiders told Nikkei Asia that Apple will not introduce any new 4G models next year, and will instead start selling a version of its cheaper phone – the popular iPhone SE – that is compatible with the next-generation connectivity standard.

The sources added that the company will also not offer an updated version of the iPhone Mini next year, after the smartphone with a smaller screen failed to communicate with consumers.

Sources familiar with the matter said the budget iPhone 5G is set to hit the market as early as the first half of 2022. They added that it will be powered by Apple’s A15 processor – the same chip that will come to this year’s premium iPhones – and will be enabled with connectivity. 5G via Qualcomm’s X60 modem chip.

This is sad news for iPhone 12 mini fans, as the SE is expected to stick with the iPhone 8-based form factor, with an LCD screen and a large chin with Touch ID button.

On the next-gen AirPods side, you can see more of what to expect in our AirPods 3 guide.

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