Apple introduces next-gen AirPods, HomePod mini in new look

AirPods (3rd generation) will be available to order from apple.com/in/store starting from Monday, with availability in stores beginning October 26.

By combining the power of the H1 chip with an Apple-designed acoustic system, the new AirPods use computational audio to deliver breakthrough sound with Adaptive EQ.

Users can enjoy spatial audio featuring Dolby Atmos in Apple Music, movies, and tv shows, along with dynamic head tracking, across Apple devices.

The extended battery life enables up to six hours of listening time and up to 30 hours of total listening time with the convenient charging case.

"We are excited to introduce the next generation of AirPods, featuring unrivalled sound through Adaptive EQ and spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, along with seamless interaction between Apple devices — making the world's best-selling headphones even better," said Greg Joswiak, Apple's senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing.

AirPods (2nd generation) will be available at Rs 12,900 and AirPods Pro now come with MagSafe Charging Case for the same price of Rs 24,900.

Apple also introduced HomePod mini in three new colours -- yellow, orange, and blue -- starting in November for just Rs 9,900.

At just 3.3 inches tall, HomePod mini offers a great music-listening experience, the intelligence of Siri, and smart home capabilities, with privacy and security built in.

"HomePod mini sounds incredible, and with access to more than 90 million songs in the global Apple Music catalog and deep integration with your Apple devices, it's the must-have smart speaker for iPhone users," said Bob Borchers, Apple's vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing.

The company also announced Apple Music Voice Plan, a new subscription tier for Apple Music designed around the power of Siri, for just Rs 49 per month.

"With Siri actively used on hundreds of millions of devices worldwide, we are thrilled to add this new plan that delivers an effortless music experience just by using your voice and makes Apple Music accessible to even more people around the world," said Oliver Schusser, Apple's vice president of Apple Music and Beats.