The next-generation of AirPods is nigh. 🙏

At least that's what headlines indicated yesterday after top Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo updated his predictions for the wireless earbuds.

Kuo forecasted that the AirPod update will likely have “wireless charging support,” though it's not clear if that means to the AirPod case or the earbuds themselves. In other words, the update could be sold as an add-on accessory for people who already have AirPods.

AirPods are reportedly Apple's most popular accessory ever, and Kuo also predicted that Apple will go from selling 16 million units in 2017 to more than 100 million by 2021. 😳

A brief history

Apple introduced AirPods to the world alongside the release of the iPhone 7 in 2016.

Some initial reactions from the Product Hunt community:

“Instant bluetooth, light weight, no cords and a case that recharges means that you'll find yourself using the Airpods far more than normal wired headphones.” - Naval

“My immediate thought: I am going to lose these instantly.” - Holly

“I get more use out of these then any headphones I've owned prior. I use daily. Walk out the door with my keys, iPhone, wallet, pen, Airpods!” - Dave

Now, the earbuds are on track to become Apple's most popular accessory ever. In fact, existing iPhone owners are more likely to buy AirPods than upgrade their iPhone.

A ton of products have also come out of the weeds in response to the popular earpieces, from Retro AirPods to BlackPods to a leash for your AirPods.

Looking ahead

The new AirPods are likely to come out in the first quarter of 2019, with their main selling points being the wireless charging feature and Bluetooth spec upgrades.

However, we may see an even bigger AirPod upgrade in 2020, with an “all-new design model to boost replacement demand.”