Apple’s third-generation AirPods arrive next week with a new design, spatial audio

Enlarge / The third-generation Apple AirPods. (credit: Apple)

Today, Apple announced an update to its AirPods true wireless earbuds. The new third-generation model features a slightly revamped design that veers closer to the higher-end AirPods Pro, with shorter stems and a similar touch-based "Force sensor" control scheme built-in. Their charging case takes after the shorter and wider design of the Pro model well.

The third-gen AirPods cost $179 and will begin shipping next week, with preorders starting today. Notably, Apple will continue to sell the existing second-gen AirPods for $129 alongside the new pair.

The first AirPods launched in 2016, promising better wireless stability and ease of use than other Bluetooth headphones thanks to Apple's W1 chip. The second generation, which were released in early 2019, featured a new chip called the H1 and offered "Hey Siri" support, lower latency, and longer talk times.

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