Apple's Rumored AirPods "Pro Lite" Could Arrive by Mid-2020

Following initial rumors of a lower-priced Apple Airpods Pro Lite variant, reports are now stating the supposed earbuds could arrive by mid-2020. According to Digitimes, the upcoming AirPods Pro Lite are an entry-level true wireless earphone.

However, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo originally predicted Apple is prepping to introduce a new high-end wireless headphone during the first half of the year. This has lead many to believe Kuo was referring to an Apple-branded version of the Beats Solo Pro, possibly the upcoming Powerbeats 4 shown in recent iOS code. If a supposed lower-priced product is coming to the AirPods line, it’s possible the Lite could remove the active noise-canceling technology or replace the option to purchase AirPods without the charging case.

Apple products are finding difficulty shipping due to the coronavirus, and Taiwan-based Universal Scientific Industrial has joined the roster of firms like Amkor and JCET attempting to gain backend orders relating to the supposed “AirPods Pro Lite.” Many believe the name may just be a placeholder for another product, possibly the product Kuo predicted.

In related tech news, Apple expects lower second quarter revenues due to coronavirus fears.

Digitimes again reports entry-level ‘AirPods Pro Lite’ coming mid-2020 https://t.co/dSpH4ePaQy by @bzamayo pic.twitter.com/K2LoY7eXHn

— 9to5Mac.com (@9to5mac) February 21, 2020

DigiTimes Continues to Suggest New Version of AirPods Pro Are Forthcoming https://t.co/dBSpKZsrha by @rsgnl pic.twitter.com/BNnt3xZhTs

— MacRumors.com (@MacRumors) February 20, 2020