Apple May Surprise Us with AirPods 3 Debut Alongside iPhone 13 This Fall

Apple introduced its second-generation AirPods more than two years ago at a spring press event – similar to the first-gen models, the second-generation earbuds are due for an update in 2021. Earlier rumors hinted at an early 2021 announcement and release date, but that big reveal never materialized. Now, two new recent reports suggest Apple may launch its AirPods 3 this fall alongside its new iPhone 13.

Asian news source Nikkei recently reported that Apple was planning to release its AirPods 3 in the second half of 2021. The company plans to ramp up production on these earbuds starting in August ahead of a fall launch date. This report was later corroborated by Digitimes, which also claimed Apple was planning to launch the AirPods 3 in September, a time frame that coincides with the rumored iPhone 13.

A third well-known and reliable Apple insider, Mark Gurman, also believes that Apple targets this fall for the AirPods 3 launch. In an article on Apple’s disparate charging systems, Gurman goes off-topic to discuss the AirPods 3 launch date.

As reported by MySmartPrice, Gurman spills the beans in his Power On newsletter, writing, “Look for Apple to debut its new low-end AirPods this fall, around the same time as the next iPhones.”

Like it does every fall, Apple is expected to hold a press event soon that’ll unveil its fall 2021 product lineup addition. That includes the iPhone 13, which is slated to launch in mid-September, new MacBook Pro models, and the AirPods 3.

If Apple introduces new earbuds, it’s unknown whether the company will discontinue its second-generation AirPods or keep them as a low-cost option for those on a budget.

[The information provided in this article has NOT been confirmed by Apple and may be speculation. Provided details may not be factual. Take all rumors, tech or otherwise, with a grain of salt.]