Apple Not Releasing HomePod, AirPods Successors Alongside 2018 iPhones

If Chinese supply chain sources are to be believed, Apple won’t be launching the revamped HomePod and the AirPods successor until next year. They also claim that the 2018 lineup of iPhones could be the last to feature 3D Touch.

AppleInsider recently saw a copy of the research note Barclays analysts came up with after touring China last week to meet with Apple suppliers there. The note revealed a lot of interesting things about the Cupertino giant’s upcoming products.

First off, Apple is said to be preparing a low-cost version of its HomePod speaker. This bit isn’t new at all since there have been reports early this year about it. However, contrary to previous reports that the device is launching by the end of 2018, analysts predicted the revamped speaker to launch in 2019.

Another product that Apple is preparing is the successor to the AirPods. There have been reports claiming that the AirPods 2 will likely launch early next year. However, supply chain sources may have told Barclays analysts that the new wireless headphones will instead launch in time for the 2019 holiday sales season.

What’s startling about the research note is the part that says the 2018 lineup of iPhones could be the last to come equipped with 3D Touch. The plan is not finalized as of late, so Apple could still change its mind and use 3D Touch on the next-generation iPhones that are launching in the fall of 2019.

It is important to note that even though Barclays got its information from supply chain sources, they haven’t been the best source for Apple’s product plans. CEO Tim Cook even said in 2013 that supply chain data aren’t really reliable.

For now, it’s best to focus on Apple’s immediate plans for the release of its new products this year. Headlining its big September event is the new lineup of iPhones for this year. Sources say there are three models and two of which will come with OLED display, while the third one will feature an LCD screen.

IBTimes learned early this week that Apple has internally labeled the launch of its new phones as an “s year.” This is a term Apple uses when it is launching minor upgrades only. Thus, the new iPhones that are debuting next month are believed to be minor upgrades of last year’s iPhone X.