Better Sound Quality

We’re not expecting any sound improvements this year in terms of the drivers or audio processing, although the better in-ear design will probably result in a much better listening experience.

Some reports have suggested that the new AirPods could improve on the lower-end, with more bass, but this could also just be a function of improved passive noise isolation resulting from the earbuds sealing properly into your ear canals.

That said, we’re hoping that Apple at least includes Spatial Audio support this year, especially now that Apple Music has added Dolby Atmos mixes to its catalog. iOS 15 will be adding positional stereo audio for AirPods Pro and AirPods Max users, and tvOS 15 will bring Spatial Audio for the Apple TV, so it’s a great time for the standard AirPods to join the listening party too.