"'Apple AirPods 3' with Shortened Stems to Launch in Q3"

Rendering images of AirPods 3 obtained and released by IT specialized media GizmoChina from a supplier

[Asia Economy Reporter Joselgina] Reports have emerged that Apple's new wireless earphones, the 'AirPods 3 (tentative name),' initially expected to be unveiled at the end of this month, will officially launch in the third quarter.

On the 25th (local time), Taiwan's DigiTimes cited sources reporting that local supplier ASE Technology has begun production of optical sensors for the next-generation AirPods scheduled for release in the third quarter. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo of TF International Securities also recently stated that Apple is aiming to launch AirPods 3 in the third quarter.

Previously, the market largely anticipated that Apple would unveil AirPods 3 through a special event at the end of this month. Especially, with the release of multiple real-life renderings showing a shorter stem at the bottom of the earbud compared to the existing design known as the 'bean sprout,' it was widely believed that the launch was imminent.

Looking at the real-life images shared on Twitter by Apple specialist Twitter user LicksApplePro, the stem is noticeable. Compared to the first and second generations, which resemble bean sprouts, the length has significantly shortened. The new AirPods are reported not to include the Active Noise Cancelling feature, a signature function of the AirPods Pro that blocks surrounding noise.

MacRumors reported, "Although the design is similar to the AirPods Pro with a shorter stem, the absence of silicone ear tips and Active Noise Cancelling features suggests a lower price." Major foreign media outlets have also reported that Apple is developing the next-generation AirPods Pro, which could be released by the end of 2021.

Apple first introduced AirPods in 2016, followed by the release of the second-generation AirPods and AirPods Pro in March and October of 2019, respectively. The price of AirPods 3 is expected to be in the range of $150 to $200.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.