The new generation AirPods go into production in August; Likely September launch

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

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

Nikkei Asia reports it.

In addition to shuffling its iPhone lineup, Apple has also prepared updated versions of other products for release in the second half of 2021 in hopes of harnessing an expected economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic. These include MacBook Pro and a new version of AirPods, the company’s famous wireless earbuds, which will begin production next month.

Mass production of this year’s new iPhones will also 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 pointed out that those forecasts are subject to revision. Throughout 2021, Apple aims to build up to 230 million iPhones, including existing and new models, up 11% from last year, sources told Nikkei Asia.

It was already clear that this year would be the last for iPhone mini. The iPhone 12 mini reportedly had disappointing sales, with Apple cutting production and we have received several reports that it will be phased out from the range starting in 2022.

Nikkei echoes this, adding that Apple intends to effectively replace iPhone SE with an updated version, adding a faster processor and 5G functionality.

All iPhones released next year will be 5G compatible, including Apple’s first refurbishment of its budget phone in two years, as the company seeks to increase sales of a product that still accounts for more than half of its own. enter.

Apple will not introduce any new 4G models next year, sources familiar with the Nikkei Asia issue said, and will instead begin selling a version of its cheaper phone, the popular iPhone SE, which is compatible with the next-generation communications standard. .

The company also won’t introduce an updated version of the iPhone Mini next year after the premium smartphone with a smaller screen failed to catch on among consumers, sources added.

The affordable 5G iPhone is expected to hit the market as early as the first half of 2022, according to sources informed on the matter. It will be powered by Apple’s A15 processor, the same chip that will go in this year’s premium iPhones, and its 5G connectivity will be enabled by Qualcomm’s X60 modem chip, they added.

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

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

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