Apple's 'AirPods 3' ready to ship, says accurate leaker

'AirPods 3' set to replace previous generations once released

Apple is expected to overhaul the AirPods lineup in 2021 starting with the base models. They may feature a shorter stem and changeable ear tips, which would bring them closer to the AirPods Pro.

A leaker known as Kang on Chinese social media platform Weibo posted that the "AirPods 3" are ready to ship. Once an official announcement is made, he says Apple will discontinue the previous generations from sale.

Apple sells two versions of the second-generation AirPods today — one with a wireless charging case and one with the standard case. There was very little difference between the first-generation and second-generation AirPods except for the processor moving from W1 to H1 and the addition of wireless charging.

With the release of "AirPods 3," Apple will no longer need two models since wireless charging will come standard. Supposed images shown of the new AirPods show a shorter stem and a speaker cutout where ear tips might be placed. It is not yet known if these cutouts will be used for changeable ear tips, or if they will remain one-size-fits-all plastic ear tips.

There may be an event on March 23 where Apple will announce the "AirPods 3" alongside other products like the AirTags and the next iPad Pro. Apple hasn't announced an event so a series of press releases for the new products are just as likely.

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