Apple‘s AirPods are set for a fresh revamp in the coming months, according to a well-respected industry insider. Mark Gurman, the consumer tech intelligence at Bloomberg, reports that suppliers will commence production of two new fourth-generation AirPods models as early as May. If that manufacturing timeline holds true, we could be unboxing the Cupertino company’s latest audio offerings by September or October.

So what can earphone enthusiasts expect from these upcoming releases? Gurman states that both variants will boast a redesigned form factor promising improved comfort and fit. Audiophiles, too, have reason to rejoice, with the prospect of upgraded sound quality tantalizingly on the cards. But the enhancements don’t stop there – even the humble charging case is poised for a 21st-century makeover, with USB-C connectivity replacing the aging Lightning port.

For those seeking a more premium audio experience, the higher-end model is tipped to incorporate active noise cancellation, an increasingly essential feature in our cacophonous modern lives. Additionally, this top-tier variant will reportedly gain a speaker in its charging case, enabling audible alerts for Apple’s Find My location tracking service.

The arrivals of these two newcomers seem set to precipitate the departure of their predecessors. Gurman previously relayed that Apple plans to discontinue both the second and third generations of its ubiquitous earbuds once the fourth-gen models make their debut.

Also, a handy new hearing aid mode is reportedly on the way as part of iOS 18‘s roll-out. What’s more, Apple is also said to be developing a hearing test capability for its premium buds.