Rumors say that Apple is working on a new over-ear version of AirPods headphones. Those would obviously be a bit larger than regular AirPods, and Apple may be planning to take advantage of that larger size by giving them more customizability.
Apple is reportedly working on two versions of its wireless over-ear headphones: a premium model with leather-like fabrics and a fitness version with lighter, more breathable materials. Sources speaking to Bloomberg say that the ear pads and headband padding will attach to the headphones frame magnetically to allow users to customize them.
The prototypes of these headphones are said to have a "retro look" with oval-shaped ear cups that can swivel. The headband is connected by thin, metal arms that stem out from the top of the ear cups.
Today's report also claims that Apple's over-ear headphones will use the same wireless pairing tech as existing AirPods and that the noise cancellation found in the AirPods Pro will be used on the over-air model as well.
Finally, it's said that these over-air headphones have been in development at Apple since 2018 and that their launch has been delayed twice. Apple is reportedly aiming to finally release them later this year, though that could change due to the coronavirus pandemic.
It's expected that these Apple over-ear headphones will take on the likes of the Bose 700 and Sony WH-1000XM3, both of which are over-ear headphones with active noise cancellation. While Apple does offer the high-end AirPods Pro with ANC, those are earbuds rather than full-on over-ear headphones. Some people will prefer the over-ear form factor that could offer better noise cancellation and possibly improved sound, too, and the customization could help Apple's over-ear headphones stand out.
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