Are AirPods 4 3rd Generation? | Clear Tech Facts

Understanding the AirPods Lineup: Generations vs. Models

Apple’s AirPods have evolved rapidly since their initial release in 2016. The naming conventions, however, can be confusing for many users. The question “Are AirPods 4 3rd Generation?” stems from this confusion around Apple’s product naming and generational updates.

The original AirPods launched as the first generation, followed by the second generation with improvements like the H1 chip. Then Apple introduced the AirPods Pro, a distinct model with active noise cancellation and a different design. Later came the third generation AirPods (also called AirPods 3), which featured a new look closer to the Pro but without noise cancellation.

The term “AirPods 4” is often mistakenly used to describe either a hypothetical next-generation model or confused with other Apple earbuds like the AirPods Pro 2. Officially, Apple has not released an “AirPods 4” named product, which means that referring to an “AirPods 4” as the third generation is inaccurate.

Why People Ask: Are AirPods 4 3rd Generation?

This question arises because of how Apple’s product releases are numbered and marketed:

• AirPods (1st Gen): Released in December 2016.
• AirPods (2nd Gen): Released in March 2019 with H1 chip and wireless charging case option.
• AirPods (3rd Gen): Released in October 2021 featuring spatial audio support, redesigned shape, and MagSafe charging case.
• AirPods Pro (1st Gen): Released in October 2019 with active noise cancellation and customizable fit.
• AirPods Pro (2nd Gen): Released in September 2022 with enhanced ANC and improved battery life.

Because Apple has two parallel lines — standard AirPods and AirPods Pro — users sometimes conflate these when trying to identify which version corresponds to which generation.

The Non-Existence of “AirPods 4” as a Model Name

Apple’s official naming does not include “AirPods 4.” Instead, updates come as generational releases or new models like “Pro” versions. So, any reference to “AirPods 4” is either unofficial speculation or shorthand for upcoming models.

This distinction clarifies why “Are AirPods 4 3rd Generation?” is often asked. The answer lies in understanding that the third generation of standard AirPods is simply called “AirPods (3rd generation)” without any “4” attached.

Design Differences: Third Generation vs. Hypothetical Fourth Generation

The third-generation AirPods introduced significant design changes compared to their predecessors:

• Sculpted Earbuds: Shorter stems and a more contoured fit resembling the AirPods Pro but without silicone tips.
• Sweat and Water Resistance: IPX4 rating added for sweat and water resistance.
• Spatial Audio Support: Enabled immersive sound experience through dynamic head tracking.
• MagSafe Charging Case: Compatible with MagSafe chargers alongside Lightning cables.

If there were an official “fourth generation,” one would expect further refinements such as improved battery life, enhanced sound quality, or more advanced sensors. However, Apple has not formally announced such a model at this time.

The Role of Firmware Updates and Features

Sometimes confusion arises because Apple rolls out firmware updates that add new features without changing hardware generations. For example, spatial audio was enabled on some older models via software updates.

This can lead people to believe that new capabilities imply a new generation or model number when they do not.

The Technical Specs Breakdown: Third Generation vs Others

To better understand how the third-generation AirPods stand out from previous versions or rumored future models often called “AirPods 4,” here’s a detailed comparison table:

Up to 5 hours per charge Up to 6 hours per charge

The Impact of Naming on Consumer Perception and Marketing Confusion

Apple’s inconsistent naming conventions have led many consumers down rabbit holes trying to figure out if their “new” pair is truly next-gen or just an iteration. Unlike some brands that number every release sequentially, Apple uses generational tags alongside model names like “Pro,” making it tricky for casual buyers.

For instance:

• The jump from second-generation standard AirPods straight to third generation skipped any mention of “fourth.” This fuels speculation about what an “AirPods 4” would be.
• The release of two generations of AirPods Pro further complicates matters since they are premium alternatives rather than direct successors within the standard lineup.
• Lack of clear differentiation between software feature rollouts versus hardware generations causes further mix-ups.
• The use of internal chip names like H1 doesn’t always translate into visible product naming changes either.

All these factors contribute directly to questions like “Are AirPods 4 3rd Generation?” being common among users seeking clarity.

The Role of Third-Party Sellers and Online Communities in Propagating Confusion

Online marketplaces sometimes list products under ambiguous names such as “AirPods 4” or “Fourth Generation,” even when those aren’t official Apple terms. This mislabeling can mislead buyers into thinking they’re purchasing newer or better tech than what actually exists.

Community forums also play a role by speculating about upcoming releases using unofficial terms before announcements happen — further blurring lines between official generations versus rumors.

A Closer Look at Features Unique to Third-Generation AirPods That Distinguish Them From Any Hypothetical Fourth Generation Models  

While no official fourth generation exists yet, analyzing what makes third-generation stand out helps clarify why it shouldn’t be confused with any rumored “fourth gen.”

• Sweat and Water Resistance: The IPX4 rating was first introduced here for standard models — a major upgrade for fitness enthusiasts compared to earlier versions lacking this protection.
• Sculpted Design:The shorter stem design improved comfort significantly over previous generations while maintaining an open-ear fit without silicone tips found on Pros.
• Magsafe Charging Case:This addition allowed users seamless integration into Apple’s MagSafe ecosystem for wireless charging convenience — absent from second-gen cases.
• Dolby Atmos & Spatial Audio Support:This immersive audio tech provides richer soundscapes during music playback or video streaming — marking a leap forward from older models’ stereo sound experience.
• Battery Life Improvements:An extra hour or so per charge compared with previous gens means longer listening sessions before recharging becomes necessary.
• Siri Integration Enhancements:“Hey Siri” functionality became hands-free without needing taps on earbuds, improving usability during workouts or multitasking situations.

These features collectively define what makes third-generation unique rather than just being another incremental update labeled as fourth gen.

Feature	AirPods (3rd Gen)	AirPods (2nd Gen)	AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)
Release Date	October 2021	March 2019	September 2022
Design	Sculpted earbuds, no silicone tips	Taller stems, classic design	Sculpted earbuds with silicone tips
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)	No	No	Yes – Improved ANC in Gen 2 Pro
Bass & Sound Quality Enhancements	Dolby Atmos support & Spatial Audio enabled	No Spatial Audio support initially; added later via firmware update for some devices	Dolby Atmos + Adaptive EQ + Spatial Audio support enhanced in Gen 2 Pro
Battery Life (Earbuds)	Up to 6 hours per charge
Total Battery Life With Case	Up to30 hours	Up to24 hours	Up to30 hours
Charging Case Compatibility	MagSafe + Lightning	Lightning only	MagSafe + Lightning + Find My integration
Water Resistance Rating	IPX4 sweat & water resistant earbuds	No official rating	IPX4 sweat & water resistant earbuds + case resistant to splashes

Frequently Asked Questions

Are AirPods 4 3rd Generation or a Different Model?

The AirPods 4 are not the 3rd generation AirPods. Apple has never officially released a product named “AirPods 4.” The third generation is simply called AirPods (3rd generation), which has distinct features and design separate from any so-called “AirPods 4.”

Why Do People Confuse AirPods 4 with the 3rd Generation?

This confusion arises because Apple’s naming conventions can be unclear. While there is an AirPods (3rd generation), no official AirPods 4 exists. Sometimes, people use “AirPods 4” informally to refer to future models or mix it up with other lines like AirPods Pro.

How Are AirPods 4 Different from the AirPods 3rd Generation?

Since Apple has not released an official AirPods 4 model, any differences are speculative. The third generation introduced features like spatial audio and a redesigned shape, but “AirPods 4” remains an unofficial term without confirmed specs or design.

Is There an Official Release of AirPods 4 as the Next Generation?

No, Apple’s official lineup does not include an “AirPods 4.” Updates come as generational releases named clearly, such as the third generation or Pro versions. References to AirPods 4 are mostly rumors or shorthand for upcoming models.

Can I Consider AirPods (3rd Generation) as AirPods 4 for Practical Purposes?

It’s best to refer to them by their official name: AirPods (3rd generation). Calling them “AirPods 4” can cause confusion since Apple does not use that term. The third generation remains the latest standard model available from Apple as of now.