Apple AirPods Pro With Noise Canceling Might Be Launched This Month, Report Says

Apple might release a new AirPods model with a new name later this month, a report claims.

A report from China Economic Daily (via Apple Insider) claimed that Apple will be releasing a new AirPods model later this month. The new audio accessory, dubbed the “AirPods Pro,” will adopt an in-ear design and have different listening modes, including one that makes use of the device's noise canceling features.

The Chinese news site didn't give an exact release date, but said the upcoming AirPods Pro will be positioned as a high-end product compared to the first and second-gen models that are currently available in the market.

The AirPods Pro is likely to fetch a NT 8,000 (about $260 USD) selling price when launched. The expected release window means that Apple is planning to make it available to the public just in time before the Christmas season arrives.

The upcoming AirPods Pro is said to feature a metal part designed for increased heat dissipation. Previous reports also claimed that these will be water-resistant and can be used in the gym and other locations near water.

Confirmed?

This report seems to line up with previous reports and forecasts. Months ago, noted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said the Cupertino tech giant will release two new AirPods models between the fourth quarter of 2019 and the first quarter of 2020.

One of these models, Kuo said, will be an update to the existing models and will feature the same familiar form factor. The other model, he said, will feature an all-new form factor and will be sold for a higher price.

A DigiTimes report from months ago said the same thing. Citing industry sources knowledgeable about the matter, DigiTimes said Apple plans to release a third-gen AirPods model with noise canceling features.

More recently, 9To5Mac reported that a glyph hidden inside iOS 13.2 points to a totally new AirPods design. IOS 13.2 also contained references suggesting that the new AirPods model will have different listening modes where active noise canceling is either turned on or off.

While the reports all corroborate one another, it's worth noting that Apple hasn't officially announced anything about the rumored model yet. Stay tuned for more info as they come.