Apple AirPower production seems to have indeed started, eyeing release 'later in 2019'
After almost giving up all hope the AirPower would ever materialize on the heels of last fall’s iPhone XS and XR announcements, rumors of an impending release picked up again recently, as reputable analysts and purported insiders hinted at an early 2019 end to our waiting.
While the resurfacing of the wireless charging mat’s name on certain regional Apple websites as part of the description of a certain new iPhone XS accessory may or may not mean something of substance, Digitimes today adds fuel to the production start speculation fire.
The website’s infamous supply chain sources, which are generally accurate but occasionally not so much, claim Apple’s AirPower is indeed “finally in production”, eyeing commercial availability “later in 2019.”
That’s certainly vague and confusing, as it appears to conflict with gossip of a Q1 launch. But technically, “later in 2019” could well mean February or March as much as it could mean November or December.
Besides, if production is underway, Apple must have overcome the technical challenges rumored to have held up the AirPower last year, which suggests an imminent rollout in stores around the world.
Our safest bet for a re-introduction remains an oft-rumored spring event dedicated primarily to the announcement of two new “entry-level” iPads, including a long overdue new Mini generation.
Apple’s AirPods might be refreshed at the same event, possibly adding wireless charging capabilities at last to support the AirPower. Back when it was first unveiled previewed, the oft-delayed wireless charging mat had its sights set on simultaneously juicing up a compatible iPhone, Apple Watch, and a pair of AirPods. Hopefully, that's still the plan.
While the resurfacing of the wireless charging mat’s name on certain regional Apple websites as part of the description of a certain new iPhone XS accessory may or may not mean something of substance, Digitimes today adds fuel to the production start speculation fire.
The website’s infamous supply chain sources, which are generally accurate but occasionally not so much, claim Apple’s AirPower is indeed “finally in production”, eyeing commercial availability “later in 2019.”
That’s certainly vague and confusing, as it appears to conflict with gossip of a Q1 launch. But technically, “later in 2019” could well mean February or March as much as it could mean November or December.
Besides, if production is underway, Apple must have overcome the technical challenges rumored to have held up the AirPower last year, which suggests an imminent rollout in stores around the world.
Our safest bet for a re-introduction remains an oft-rumored spring event dedicated primarily to the announcement of two new “entry-level” iPads, including a long overdue new Mini generation.
Apple’s AirPods might be refreshed at the same event, possibly adding wireless charging capabilities at last to support the AirPower. Back when it was first unveiled previewed, the oft-delayed wireless charging mat had its sights set on simultaneously juicing up a compatible iPhone, Apple Watch, and a pair of AirPods. Hopefully, that's still the plan.
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