Earlier this week Apple casually announced some new iPads, which we thought was a weird move considering that the tech giant has a live event next week.
Well apparently it wasn’t done being Tim Cooked.
Apple also just launched the next generation of AirPods overnight, because why not?
[referenced url=”https://gizmodo.com.au/2019/03/apple-ipad-air-ipad-mini-australian-price-specs-release-date/” thumb=”https://gizmodo.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/ipad-410×231.jpg” title=”Apple Just Casually Announced Two New iPads” excerpt=”Despite having an event booked in for next week, Apple dropped some hardware news last night. Say hello to the new iPad Mini and iPad Air.”]
The new AirPods contain have a new H1 chip that has been designed for wireless headphones. It boasts more battery life, improved connectivity, a better mic and “Hey Siri” capability without the need of a button.
Previously the AirPods used the same W chip as the Apple Watch, so it seems like Apple is looking to invest in the future of wireless buds.
Eighteen months and a new generation of phones later, and the long-awaited wireless charging mat is still nowhere to be seen. But there is a new Qi charging case that can bought along with the new AirPods or separately.
When it comes to aesthetics, the second gen AirPods basically look exactly the same. The primary difference is an LED light on the charging case that lets you know how much battery is left.
The new AirPods will be available to pre-order from today for $319 with a wireless charging case or $249 with a standard case. You can also pick up the wireless case on its own for $129.
Much like the iPad Air and iPad Mini, these will become available from next week. Our guess is that it will right after the March event is over.
This weird move seems to solidify the the theory that Apple wants its rumoured streaming and subscription services to be the stars of the show.
Still, considering that we’re now looking at three new pieces of hardware, surely Apple is going to at least indulge in some stage demos?
Right?
[referenced url=”https://gizmodo.com.au/2019/03/what-to-expect-from-apples-march-25-event/” thumb=”https://gizmodo.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/apple-show-time-410×231.png” title=”What To Expect From Apple’s March Event” excerpt=”Yesterday Apple announced a special event for March 25 (26 here in Australia) with the tagline ‘It’s Show Time’. With such a vague announcement, what exactly is Apple planning? This is what we’re expecting.”]