Could Apple launch its own branded headphones this year?

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The company is aiming for something that "boasts the convenience of AirPods but with better acoustic qualities"...

..so obviously Apple's Beats brand won't cut the mustard.

According to KGI analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is planning its own brand of high-end, over-ear headphones which could launch before 2018 is out, as reported by AppleInsider.

The root of this prediction is a memo sent to Apple investors, which promises an "all new" design. Alongside the predicted upgrades to the AirPods, such as waterproofing and 'Hey, Siri' support, we could see a new line up of Apple headphones.

Kuo says Apple is aiming to deliver a product with the convenience of AirPods, but with better sound. Which means it's almost certain they'll have the W1 chip for fast-pairing with Apple devices.

Competing with Apple's own Beats brand on price seems unlikely. Currently, Apple's AirPods are priced at £160, while the Beats Solo Wireless 3 started at £250.

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Adam Smith

Adam was a staff writer for What Hi-Fi?, reviewing consumer gadgets for online and print publication, as well as researching and producing features and advice pieces on new technology in the hi-fi industry. He has since worked for PC Mag as a contributing editor and is now a science and technology reporter for The Independent.