Apple is hoping to revive its declining AirPods sales by launching new wireless earbuds.

Nikkei Asia reported that Apple is cutting its production plans for AirPods and AirPods Pro by 25% to 30%, suggesting that Cupertino is losing its edge in the wireless earphone field. However, Apple also expects sales to rise again with "new AirPods, which are scheduled to be introduced this year."

While no specific names were mentioned, this almost certainly refers to the AirPods 3, which, even if not announced at the April 20 Apple event, is apparently set for mass production of the new buds in late 2021. Several AirPods 3 designs have also been leaked, indicating that they are nearing completion. There are even counterfeit AirPods 3 using the leaked designs.

The "new AirPods" could also include the rumored AirPods Pro 2, which we have not seen or heard as much about as the AirPods 3. Twitter tipster LeaksApplePro previously estimated that the AirPods Pro 2 would launch as early as Q4 2021 Q4 2021 at the earliest, but this was some time ago and plans are subject to change.

The Nikkei Asia report also contains some interesting information on current AirPods models, including Apple's earphone market share dropping from 60% in 2018 to 31% in 2020: Jabra Elite Active 75t, Sennheiser CX 400 With inexpensive rivals like BT and Skullcandy Dime drawing attention away from AirPods and AirPods Pro, it seems that prospective buyers are really looking for the best alternative to Apple AirPods.

The $549 over-the-ear AirPods Max is in a completely different headphone category, and with more than 18 months having passed since the last in-ear AirPods were released, it is definitely time for Apple to focus on releasing the AirPods 3. More leaks are likely.