Apple AirPods Pro 2: Expected new features and sensors

The range of features of the new AirPods Pro 2 may be smaller than expected. Although there were various fitness functions and sensors in the run-up, development at Apple does not seem to have progressed far enough in that regard. At least, that’s what experts assume.

With the second generation of the AirPods Pro, Apple would present the successor to its Truly Wireless active noise canceling (ANC) headphones after almost three years. The official presentation is expected in the fall, parallel to the iPhone 14 (Pro). As usual, speculation about the new features of the earbuds is mounting a few months before the go-ahead, as revealed last week by a spate of possible leaks from the Far East. However, the expectations of many interested parties are now murky.

Hopes for fitness tracker features are fading

In his weekly newsletter, the often knowledgeable Bloomberg reporter and Apple expert Mark Gurman responds to the rumors of the past. Gurman doubts the new AirPods Pro 2 will actually have heart rate and body temperature sensors. According to the sources, these will not be included in the headset upgrade for 2022.

However, he also confirms that Apple is actively working on these two features. Aside from potential health and fitness features, the AirPods Pro 2 charging case needs improvement. In addition to the jump from the Lightning port to USB-C, the housing could have a built-in microphone that picks up sound and passes it on to the wireless headphones, which then serve as a hearing aid.

Contrary to the sensor question, Gurman is not commenting on the AirPods charging case rumors, which should of course also be viewed with some skepticism.