Apple AirPods 2 release date and rumours – new ‘stealth black’ colour teased
APPLE fans may get a surprise treat with their the long-awaited AirPods 2 – a 'hey Siri' configuration and a new "stealth black" colour option.
Those using AirPods at the moment can activate Apple's popular virtual assistant with a double tap but not for much longer, and we've got all the details.
Apple AirPods 2 explained – what are they?
A recent report claims Apple is working on a new version of 2016's iconic AirPods earbuds.
The current Apple AirPods are small wireless earbuds that come with a charging case.
They are completely cable-free and connect to your iPhone, iPad or MacBook over Bluetooth.
According to Bloomberg, the AirPods 2 will boast a number of new features, including noise-cancellation.
However, it was confirmed that the second-generation AirPods will not upgrade the audio performance, according to the latest report by .
Apple AirPods 2 specs and features – what else is changing?
Despite this, Apple is reportedly working on adding water-resistance to the new AirPods.
According to an unnamed source, the AirPods won't be sufficiently waterproof for swimming, but they'll be protected against "rain and perspiration".
The same report confirmed the updated earbuds will contain new health-tracking capabilities that mimic those of the Apple Watch.
AirPods 2 will look identical as its predecessor except for a small LED light on the front of the charging case, to signal when the case is charging wirelessly.
in the first developer beta for iOS 12.2 that Apple is on the verge of releasing a 'Hey Siri' setup screen, currently only available on iPhone.
Tech blog also claims to have insider details.
Citing an anonymous source, the blog suggests that Apple's AirPods 2 will boast "superior audio quality" compared to the first-generation earbuds.
But despite the boosted sound chops, the AirPods are expected to look largely identical.
However, they should have an "improved grip" thanks to a new coating on top, which is supposedly the same as the one featured on the latest Google Pixel smartphones.
It's also a similar coating to the one expected to feature on the "high-end" iPhone 11 model later this year.
The article also suggests that the AirPods 2 will feature more sensors, which will supposedly be used for new health features – like heart-rate monitoring, currently only offered by the Apple Watch.
Battery size is reportedly identical to the original AirPods, which should be battery life will be similar too.
However, the battery inside the charging case is expected to be slightly smaller compared to the current models.
That's potentially because the AirPods 2 are supposed to support wireless charging, so that they can be powered up by the long-awaited AirPower charging pad.
The AirPower mat can wirelessly charge an iPhone, AirPods and Apple Watch all at once – and was announced by Apple way back in 2017.
The gadget never launched however, but is widely expected to debut in March alongside a new pair of AirPods.
Apple's new AirPods will need wireless charging coils inside to support this charging technology, hence the slight change to the case's battery.
The case may be marginally thicker as a result.
Apple AirPods 2 design – brand new 'black' colour
According to Taiwanese site , Apple's supply chain has already started mass producing the AirPods 2 ready for release this year.
An insider told the publication that the buds will ship with a high tech exterior coating.
This will increase grip, making them less likely to fall out of your ears.
The AirPods 2 be available in at least two colour options, including the traditional white and a new "stealth black".
Apple AirPods 2 release date and price
Fully-fledged AirPods 2 are currently mooted for a 2019 release, specifically during the first half of the year.
Apple held a major press event in October 2018 but the AirPods 2 didn't appear.
Apple AirPods first went on sale on December 13, 2016, and currently retail for £159.
The new AirPods are tipped to come in white and black (new) colour options, and cost $200 (probably £199), up from $159 / £159.
And the AirPower charging mat is rumoured to cost $150 (probably £149), which was the price we heard from renowned Apple tipster and Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman last year.
Of course, Apple hasn't actually revealed any information about new AirPods, and likely won't prior to an official announcement.
- Apple AirPods at Argos for £159 –
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Would you be tempted by Apple's latest headphones if they came with a 'Hey Siri' configuration? Let us know in the comments!
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