Thanks to a recent macOS Tahoe 26.7 leak, we now have a better idea of some of the new products Apple could be preparing to launch. Previously, the leak revealed that the tech giant is working on a new type of AirPods with built-in cameras. Now, a new report suggests that the leak also contains references to two new AirPods 5 models.
This information came from MacRumors, which spotted two different model identifiers in the macOS Tahoe 26.7 update: B868M and B868E. The publication has a strong reason to believe that these identifiers are referring to the unannounced AirPods 5 models, as they follow a similar naming structure to the previous-generation AirPods 4 models.
For reference, the AirPods 4 launched with two distinct models: one used the B768M identifier, while the other was labelled B768E and came with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). MacRumors believes that, based on the similar naming convention, we could see a standard AirPods 5 model alongside a version with ANC in the near future. We say “in the near future” because Apple’s annual September launch event is fast approaching, although the company has yet to confirm when the new earbuds will be announced.
While we do not know the complete specifications of the upcoming TWS earbuds, the report suggests that they could feature Apple’s new H3 chip. The chip is expected to offer improved sound quality and lower latency compared to the H2 chip used in the current-generation AirPods.
It’s also worth mentioning that the macOS update revealed references to an unreleased Beats Solo Buds model, although little is known about it at the time of writing. Gizmochina says that software references to upcoming Apple products like these are fairly normal and can appear months before anything is officially announced.
With all that said, Apple has not confirmed any of these details. While the AirPods 5 models could potentially debut alongside the company’s upcoming wave of smartphones, their launch timing remains unclear. For now, it’s best to take these reports with a grain of salt and wait for a proper announcement.
(Source: MacRumours, via Gizmochina)
