Apple plans to update its AirPods with new hardware features

Last year Apple introduced its wireless headphones, and now there will be an addition of a new version of the “W” line of chips. Apple created these chips to specifically manage and improve Bluetooth-based connections between gadgets. The new hardware update will include an improved W chip as well as the ability to activate Siri by voice, rather than physically tapping the AirPod in the ear. The user just has to say “Hey Siri” to be able to trigger the virtual assistant. This feature will work similarly to how a user activates Siri on an iPhone or a HomePod speaker. That would indeed be a step-up in terms of shifting AirPods to a voice-first interface device.

For the year 2019, Apple is planning to add a new level of water-resistance that will protect the device from splashes of water and rain. However, it can’t be completely submerged in water. According to an Apple spokeswoman, the company’s plans could change or be delayed. After the introduction of the first AirPods in 2016, they have been replacing the traditional wired headphones. Companies like Sony Corp., Google, Motorola, Samsung Electronics Co. have been following through and developing similar products.

The AirPods product segment including Watch, Apple TV and accessories generated more than $5 billion in revenue in the company’s fiscal first quarter representing 36 percent year-over-year growth. The AirPods are working well among the users and updating them like other high-demand Apple products might make them good by all accounts.