Update: New rumors have narrowed the AirPods Pro 2 release date to Q3 2022.

There is growing evidence that the AirPods Pro 2 release date will have to wait until 2022, but it is said to feature some exciting changes from the current AirPods Pro model.

In a recent research note, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who is in the know, predicted that the next wireless earbuds will launch in 2022; according to Apple Insider, the note claims that the AirPods Pro 2 will offer "an innovative experience."

The memo also states.

Kuo did not elaborate on what exactly this "innovative experience" would be. Apple executive Kevin Lynch recently suggested that the AirPods series will explore sensor fusion, a method of combining sensor data from devices like the iPhone 12 and Apple Watch to provide more accurate fitness tracking data

The authors also noted that the fitness tracking data from the iPhone 12 and Apple Watch are not yet available.

As it happens, we had already heard that the AirPods Pro 2 could have some sort of built-in fitness tracking feature. And while a step counter in the AirPods Pro 2 is not particularly groundbreaking, it is not impossible for Apple to expand on such a health-focused feature and create an in-ear alternative to the best fitness trackers.

There are also quieter, less certain whispers that the AirPods Pro 2 may ditch the bud and stem design common to previous AirPods. Thus, a more compact, rounded bud shape like the Beats Studio Buds may be another major change for the AirPods Pro 2.

In any case, we would not bet on it, although this is a recent event with a 2022 release date surfacing, so it could be anytime between January and December next year. The AirPods 3, on the other hand, is expected to launch in late 2021, possibly along with the iPhone 13.