AirPods 3 photo leak: our first look at Apple's new AirPods?

AirPods 3 photo leak: our first look at Apple's new AirPods?
(Image credit: 52audio)

Could this be our first look at the Apple AirPods 3?

This photo (above) – posted by Japanese blog 52audio (via 9to5Mac) – claims to show parts of the AirPods 3, which are expected to arrive in 2021.

Rather than the whole finished product, we can only see the top part of the earphone and the enclosure cover of the charging case. But it chimes with previous reports that claim Apple's next AirPods will look a lot like the AirPods Pro. This was claimed by not just one, but two reputable sources – noted Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, and others cited in a Bloomberg report.

While they may look like the AirPods Pro, they almost certainly won't have their more advanced features, like active noise cancellation. They would sit below the AirPods Pro in the AirPods line-up in terms of features and price, just as the current AirPods do.

Is this our first look at the AirPods 3?

(Image credit: 52audio)

Apple is also rumoured to be working on the AirPods Pro 2, which could sport a more rounded shape, as well as the AirPods Max over-ear headphones.

What this leak doesn't do is shed any light on the exact specs or release date of the AirPods 3, however the word on the online street is that they'll launch in the first half of next year – about two years on from the launch of the current, second-generation AirPods. That seems about right to us.

MORE:

Thinking of upgrading? Apple AirPods 2 vs AirPods Pro: which is better?

Bag a bargain: Best Apple deals

Or check out the best iPhones around

What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.

Read more about how we test