Apple appears ready to update its mainstream AirPods lineup again. Analysts detected two new model identifiers in macOS Tahoe 26.7. The discovery renews speculation. The company is reportedly developing a new generation of wireless earbuds. This generation may replace the AirPods 4 model.
Two New AirPods Model Identifiers
The identifiers found in Apple’s software are B868M and B868E. Their appearance is particularly interesting because the existing AirPods 4 family uses the B768M and B768E identifiers. The similar numbering pattern has led to speculation that the newer codes belong to two AirPods 5 variants.
Apple could follow the same two-tier approach it currently uses with the AirPods 4 model. That would mean a regular version alongside a model offering Active Noise Cancellation. Apple currently sells both configurations for the AirPods 4 model. This gives buyers the option to stick with the standard experience or pay more for additional noise-control features.
There is still very little known about what Apple might change internally. The introduction of an updated H3 chip is possible. It may enhance audio processing and wireless responsiveness. However, the chip has not been confirmed, so these potential upgrades should not yet be treated as final specifications.
No AirPods 5 Release Date Yet
The software discovery also does not tell us when the new AirPods could arrive. Apple routinely includes references to products that are still under development, meaning the presence of model numbers alone isn’t enough to establish a release date. At present, Apple has not announced the AirPods 5 or provided any launch information.
The timing is nevertheless noteworthy because Apple has continued adding capabilities to its current AirPods through software. Recent firmware updates have expanded features such as studio-quality audio recording, improved call quality, and camera-control functionality on compatible AirPods models.
New Beats Solo Buds Also Reportedly Spotted
The same macOS release reportedly contains another unreleased audio-product reference, this time pointing toward a new Beats Solo Buds model. That suggests Apple’s software is currently revealing several pieces of its upcoming audio-product roadmap, although the products may not all be destined for release at the same time.
What This Means for AirPods Buyers
For people considering an AirPods purchase, the discovery is worth watching but doesn’t yet provide a reason to assume a launch is imminent. The two model numbers offer a strong indication that Apple has new AirPods hardware in development, while details such as pricing, design, battery life, processor, and release date remain unknown.
For now, the clearest takeaway is that Apple’s next standard AirPods generation appears to be taking shape behind the scenes. If the B868M and B868E identifiers do indeed correspond to AirPods 5 models, Apple could once again offer a choice between a conventional version and one with Active Noise Cancellation when the new lineup eventually arrives.
