Rumoured Apple AirPods Pro 2 leak hints at updated stem-less design

Apple’s rumoured decision to rework the design of the AirPods comes at a time when earbuds without protruding parts might be preferred by customers - especially with the prevalence of masks during the coronavirus pandemic.

The leak also reveals that the second generation AirPods Pro could feature the same Apple-designed H1 chip on the inside. (Apple Hub)

Apple's AirPods Pro are widely considered one of the best true wireless earbuds, along with the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2, Sony WF-1000XM3 and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds. The company is rumoured to be working on a successor to the successful in-ear earbuds, according to a new leak.

Last year, Apple released the AirPods Pro while deciding to stick to the tried and tested stem design that featured on its original AirPods. However, the competition, including Samsung, JBL and Skullcandy, have already moved towards earbuds without any protruding parts. Apple's next true wireless earbuds may also feature a similar design, according to a leak by Apple Hub.

Apple's decision to rework the design of the AirPods comes at a time when earbuds without protruding parts might be preferred by customers - especially with the prevalence of masks during the coronavirus pandemic. Samsung has also been marketing their brand new Galaxy Buds Pro as being able to stay securely in the ear even during heavy workouts.

While it is not easy to tell from the image shared by Apple Hub, it also appears that the company may reduce the size of the charging case that comes with the second generation AirPods Pro. The smaller size due to the lack of stems may end up allowing for such a reduction in size, but it is also possible that Apple will use the extra space to house a larger battery.

The leak also reveals that the second generation AirPods Pro could feature the same Apple-designed H1 chip on the inside, that was present on the AirPods Pro and the AirPods Max - which suggests that the same signature features like Spatial Audio, Adaptive EQ, Audio Sharing and Transparency mode, could also feature on the rumoured earbuds. However, it's best to take these leaks with a pinch of salt as we won't know what Apple has planned until it officially reveals them later this year.