New AirPods Pro may finally arrive in late 2022, replacing current model
Mike PetersonAirPods Pro 2 render
Apple will release an updated version of AirPods Pro in the second half of 2022, and will likely discontinue its current model, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
The TF Securities analyst made the forecast in a tweet on Tuesday that focused on third-generation AirPods orders. Kuo said that because of a "failed product segmentation strategy," demand for AirPods 3 is "significantly lower" than AirPods 2.
To remedy that going forward, the analyst believes Apple will discontinue its current generation AirPods Pro after the release of second-generation AirPods Pro in the second half of 2022 to "avoid repeating the same mistake."
AirPods 3 orders for 2-3Q22 have been cut by 30%+. Due to the failed product segmentation strategy, demand for AirPods 3 is significantly weaker than for AirPods 2. AirPods Pro may get discontinued after Apple launches AirPods Pro 2 in 2H22 to avoid repeating the same mistake.
— (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) April 5, 2022
The analyst added that AirPods 3 orders have been cut by about 30%.
Current rumors suggest that second-generation AirPods Pro could sport a new stemless design, support for lossless audio playback, and improved on-device intelligence, among other new features.
Additional rumors also hint that the new AirPods Pro could have more health features — such as heart rate sensors or accelerometers — and a new charging case that sports improved Find My capabilities.
Kuo's prediction that second-generation AirPods Pro will launch in the second half of 2022 line up with current rumors that the updated headphones will see a debut late in the year.
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