Apple released the AirPods alongside the iPhone 7 way back in 2016 and since then there have been multiple rumours suggesting that the next generation AirPods were on the way. It was widely expected that Apple would launch the latest iteration at the iPhone XS event held last year but it made a no-show on the grand stage. However, it appears that the brand is hard at work on the second-generation AirPods and Apple has been delaying it because they plan on adding some important tech in them.
As per a recent report by DigiTimes, the next-generation AirPods could launch as early as this year and it will come with support for some health monitoring features, with no specifics divulged. The report adds that several suppliers, notably Zhen Ding Tech, Flexium Interconnect, Compeq Manufacturing, and Unitech Printed Circuit Board are all taking part in the production of the brand new AirPods.
As of yet, no concrete details have been provided or no new information has been given regarding what health features in the new AirPods will entail. But it’s in no way surprising that Appl’es focus is on health.
As per a report by Softpedia, Apple has found tremendous success with the Apple Watch and its health-related features. This has prompted them to invest heavily in this particular field. Thus, future Apple devices are expected to come infused with a lot of health-related features.
Along with the brand new health monitoring features, Apple will also refine the design of the earbuds. Sources have informed Digitimes that it would be discrete. However, no further explanation on the same was leaked.
As to when the AirPods 2 will be launched, no word has been divulged but the expected launch time is in the first half of the calendar year 2019.
Also, earlier rumours have suggested that Apple is working on second-generation AirPods with an improved wireless chip that supports hands-free "Hey Siri" functionality. AirPods with "Hey Siri" support were shown off in a September Apple video when the iPhone launched, but upgraded AirPods did not make an appearance at Apple's September or October events.
