Apple to Launch Upgraded AirPods in the Second Half of 2018 [Report]

Apple is planning to launch upgraded AirPods in the second half of 2018, according to KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

The new earphones are said to include a "smaller quartz component" but no further details were provided. Kuo believes the AirPods will still be assembled by Inventec with components being supplied by Unitech, Compeq, TXC, and HLJ.

Media reports over the past few days on brisk AirPods demand and Apple struggling to keep up with holiday season demand align with our findings and positive predictions on AirPods in several previous reports. […] In 2018, we predict AirPods shipments will grow 100% YoY to 26-28mn units. We forecast the ASP of RFPCB for upgraded AirPods in 2H18 may increase, further benefiting business momentum of Unitech and Compeq.


Kuo continues to estimate that Apple will double shipments of its AirPods in 2018 reaching sales of 26-28 million units, up from 13-14 million in 2017.

Apple has also announced plans to release a new wireless charging case for AirPods that will work with its upcoming AirPower wireless charging mat. We'll let you know when the accessories become available.

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[via MacRumors]