Apple likely to launch a bunch of new audio products this year, 'budget-friendly' AirPods Lite on the way

Apple may finally launch a pair of AirPods that would be truly budget-friendly. The tech giant is expected to shake up its AirPods lineup later this year by introducing multiple new models.

In a recent investor note, analyst Jeff Pu supported these expectations, confirming that Apple will launch new lower-cost “AirPods Lite” during the second half of 2024. Pu also corroborated the upcoming release of the new AirPods Max later this year.

Pu’s report indicates that AirPods production will increase later this year, thanks to the introduction of a low-cost model. His analysis focuses broadly on how AirPods production will impact Apple’s overall supply chain and its partners.

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Overall, Pu estimates that AirPods volume will decrease by 4 per cent year-over-year in 2024 to 55 million units due to muted demand for existing models.

However, Pu did not provide specific details about what to expect from these low-cost AirPods, which he referred to as “AirPods Lite.”

Furthermore, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has also mentioned Apple’s work on a low-cost version of AirPods slated for release in 2024. Kuo suggested that the so-called “AirPods Lite” could be priced at $99, although in India, it is expected to cost slightly more. Nonetheless, it would still cost slightly less than AirPods 2nd Generation.

Currently, Apple offers five different versions of AirPods. AirPods 2nd generation costs $129 in the US and Rs 12,900 in India. AirPods 3rd generation costs $169 or Rs 19,990 with Lightning Charging Case. The MagSafe Charging Case option comes for $179 or Rs 20,900.

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As for the Pros, the AirPods Pro 2nd generation costs $249 or Rs 24,900. The AirPods Max cost $549 or Rs 59,900.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has consistently reported that Apple plans to unveil AirPods 4 this year with two different models. Both AirPods 4 models are anticipated to feature a new design and USB-C charging case, but only the higher-end variant will support features like noise cancellation.

It remains to be seen whether Pu and Kuo are referring to the same lower-end version of AirPods 4, or if it’s an entirely different product. Presumably, more details will emerge as the year progresses.

(With inputs from agencies)