Rumors about new over-ear headphones from Apple have been around for a good two years now. But what could make the new high-end accessories with the apple logo so special? We take a look at all the information available so far on the subject - Apple StudioPods.
In addition to the AirPods, Apple also offers numerous headphones from the Beats brand. In addition to in-ear products, there are also over-ear models. They are all regularly updated and appeal to a wide range of users. The AirPods area is also set to be expanded significantly. The next model to be released is expected to be a premium model of over-ear headphones, which will become part of the AirPods range and will therefore receive an Apple logo. Whether these will actually be called StudioPods remains questionable. But more is now known about the design and features. As already mentioned, the rumors have been with us for a good two years. However, they have only reached their peak in the last few weeks - a sign of an imminent launch. Apart from that, there have already been some hints in the iOS 14 code.
The design of Apple's new over-ear headphones
Until recently, the design was still a big mystery. But a Bloomberg report revealed Apple's plan. According to it, there will be at least two versions of Apple's StudioPods or premium headphones: a premium version with "leather-like fabrics" and a "fitness-oriented model that uses lighter, breathable materials with small perforations". Support for touch controls for controlling playback is also expected. According to Bloomberg, the product will have a retro look. It says in it:
Prototypes of the headphones have a retro look with oval, pivoting earcups and a headband connected by thin, metallic arms. The arms originated from the top of the earcups rather than the sides, the source explained.
But the highlight is the modular component. As already described above, there will be two versions of the new headphones. They can be converted as desired. Magnets make this possible. A similar functionality already exists. That is, some manufacturers allow users to replace the pads. But Apple is going a step further in the area of customizable headphones and is also making the carrying strap modular. Basically, the principle is similar to the Apple Watch and the numerous wristbands. So it would not be a surprise if there were other versions. Unfortunately, no further details about the design are known. The connections also remain a secret for now. But the modularity would definitely be a good selling point.
Specifications: Apple StudioPods inside
Although there is no reliable information about this yet, it can be assumed that Apple will at least integrate the H1 chip. This allows for quick connection to devices, the "Hey Siri" function and more. However, it would not be a surprise if Apple introduced an improved version of the H1 chip. Other features will also include noise cancellation, which is already known from the AirPods Pro. We can assume that Apple will give the over-ear model a transparent and active ANC function. At least that is what some reports suggest. Even though the sound quality cannot possibly be leaked, some sources claim that the new over-ear headphones will have a "high-end" sound. But let's be honest - nothing else can be expected from Apple. Although some premium products from Bose and Co. will be strong competition, Apple is likely to have one advantage - deep integration into iOS and Co. - a feature that almost always convinces.
Apple StudioPods – Pricing and Availability
There is already clear information on availability. Apple's new over-ear headphones were originally expected in 2019. However, design problems are said to have caused delays. Now the well-known Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and Bloomberg claim that mass production of the new premium headphones could start in mid-2020. This means that the market launch is expected in autumn this year. However, it cannot be ruled out that there will be further delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As with almost every product, there is still no information on price. Since Apple is already charging 279 euros for the AirPods Pro, prices beyond the 400 euro mark are quite conceivable.
speculation about speculation
As I said, there is plenty of room for speculation here. As for the name, it should be noted that, as already mentioned, no details are known. The name "Apple StudioPods" has only caught on in the rumor mill. As always, nothing has been confirmed so far and everything could just be a fantasy of the rumor mill - although active Apfelpatienten of course know themselves how often such reports turn out to be true. Do you want new headphones? Then take a look at our Amazon Storefront over – there we have all the current AirPods as well as Beats Models summarized for you. (Photo by mkabakov / Bigstockphoto)
