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Apple plans to launch a more affordable version of its AirPods, according to well-known analyst and Apple oracle Ming-Chi Kuo.
In a Twitter thread on Thursday, Kuo said the company was targeting a US$99 price tag for the wireless earbuds.
That would be substantially less than the minimum US$169 price at which the third-generation AirPods launched in October 2021.
In South Africa, the iStore initially charged US$169 for the AirPods 3. At the time of writing, however, they cost US$219 and Opting for a MagSafe-capable case will cost you US$11 more.
The older AirPods 2, launched nearly four years ago, currently costs US$167
Apple’s AirPods are highly regarded for their comfort and sound quality.
At a price point below US$100, Apple could better compete with the likes of Samsung, Jabra, JBL, and other popular manufacturers that offer a wide selection of mid-range wireless earbuds for around half Apple’s price.
A lower price could also see the company’s popular earbuds appeal to more Android users, many of whom are less inclined to spend as much on earbuds as the average iPhone owner.
Kuo said Apple plans to release the more affordable AirPods in the second half of 2024, or the first half of 2025.
Apple also has new AirPods Max headphones in the pipeline in the same release window.
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