Apple's new version of its AirPods – or at least the software behind them – appears to have leaked and they're going to make voice commands easier than ever. Rather than having to touch them to awake Siri, you'll be able to rouse him/here/it with just a word. This may be less sexy than the iPhone 11, but it could do more to boost usage of Apple's AI assistant.
Interestingly, the somewhat smaller headphones brand Jabra has already announced (at CES 2019) that its true wireless buds will soon do this – and they'll be able to wake Alexa and Google Assistant with voice alone, too…
The rumour mill is up and running for Apple but it's not the iPhone 11 – or even Apple's potential move into over-ear, noise-cancelling headphones – that's getting all the limelight. The prospect of new AirPods is the internet to go all a-flutter.
According to 9to5mac, which has dug into the iOS 12.2 beta code, we can expect new voice controls on the next generation of AirPods. The code suggests that the new AirPods will have built-in support for the 'Hey Siri!' voice command, making the much-beloved personal assistant with the sassy sense of humour, accessible with voice alone. That's right: there'll be no need to touch the buds with your mucky hands. The current generation of AirPods can't manage this level of voice control.
This leak follows a previous report from Bloomberg which said that Apple was working on new AirPods that will feature a chip capable of "Hey Siri" support. Also mentioned was a high-end version of the AirPods that come with noise cancellation, water resistance and a better wireless range.
To add even more fuel to this fire, DigiTimes has also report that Apple will release a new version of its AirPods with health-monitoring features built-in.
Perhaps Apple will reveal the new earphones alongside the iPhone 11 in September.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
Luke is a former freelance writer for T3 with over two decades of experience covering tech, science and health. Among many others Luke wrote about health tech, software and apps, VPNs, TV, audio, smart home, antivirus, broadband, smartphones, cars and plenty more. In his free time, Luke used to climb mountains, swim outside and contort his body into silly positions while breathing as calmly as possible.
-
Skip the plank – a fitness expert says these five exercises are the best place to start for a stronger core
There's plenty of easier exercises out there!
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published
-
I tried a cocooning compression experience and it’s the most relaxed I’ve ever felt
Cocooning might be my new obsession – here’s what it is and what it’s like
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Published
-
Microsoft's 5-star Surface with keyboard is Best Buy's killer deal
Best buy it at Best Buy!
By David Nield Published
-
Sonos' premium soundbar just hit its lowest-ever price in 5-star deal
Top-tier sound doesn't have to cost top dollar
By David Nield Published
-
Huge 75in Sony TV is now cheaper than ever in Amazon's Black Friday sale
You can now get a top-quality TV for less, with 100s of dollars off this set
By David Nield Published
-
Improve your Wi-Fi with 5-star Netgear kit – now cheaper than ever
This is one of the most powerful home Wi-Fi setups you can have – and it has hit a new low price on Amazon
By David Nield Published
-
Samsung's fan-favorite earbuds are cheaper than ever on Amazon right now
The Galaxy Buds FE bring with them a superb listening experience at a low price – and that price just got even lower
By David Nield Published
-
Insta360 Link 2 review: a dream webcam for power users
A long list of features, a neat design, and crystal clear audio and video
By David Nield Published
-
Creative Sound Blaster GS3 review: a fantastic value speaker for gamers
An audio boost for your gaming – and for your music and movies
By David Nield Published
-
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 15: all four models compared – should you pre-order today?
How do the 2024 iPhone upgrades compare to what was launched last year's iPhone 15 models?
By David Nield Published