Not AirPods Max? The Rumor of Apple's Unannounced Headphones as the "Beats Successor" Spreads

"Unannounced Apple Headphones" Appeared in FCC Documents

Speculation is rife among overseas Apple-related media and social networks about Apple's next audio product. The trigger was the certification documents for an unannounced product listed in the database of the U.S. Federal Communications Commission, or FCC. The model number "A3577" was noted there. The product description is very concise, stating "Bluetooth over-ear headphones."

FCC documents often serve as "early hints" for fans waiting for new product announcements. Products with communication capabilities, such as smartphones, earphones, tablets, and wireless accessories, go through certification procedures before release, so only the model number and product category may be visible externally before the official announcement. This is precisely one of those typical cases. While the truly desired information such as appearance, price, release date, chip configuration, and noise-canceling performance is withheld, the mere possibility that "Apple is preparing unannounced over-ear headphones" has become a significant point of interest.

The documents also indicate that the device in question is equipped with a built-in battery, microphone, and antenna. While this is a natural configuration for Bluetooth headphones, it gives rise to much speculation regarding Apple-related audio products. Is it part of the AirPods line, the Beats line, or a new product different from existing lines? The intrigue of this information lies in the fact that the few verifiable facts leave much room to interpret Apple's product strategy.

Not AirPods Max 2? The Subtle Distance Indicated by the Model Number

Regarding the A3577, many overseas media outlets first focused on its relationship with the AirPods Max 2. When hearing about Apple's over-ear headphones, many people think of the AirPods Max series. However, reports suggest that the model number for the AirPods Max 2 is A3454, which does not match the current A3577.

Of course, it's impossible to completely determine the product category based solely on Apple's model numbers. Numbers starting with "A" are widely used across Apple and Beats products, and it's risky to deduce brand or generation solely from the proximity or distance of these numbers. Nonetheless, the fact that A3577 has a different number from the existing AirPods Max 2 strengthens the view that it is unlikely to be a simple AirPods Max 2 document.

Furthermore, a diagram in part of the FCC documents showing the label position is deemed insufficient to identify the product's true nature. Although a shape resembling ear cups can be confirmed, it is not possible to discern whether it has Apple's distinctive design or Beats' sporty style. In other words, this leak indicates "existence" but still conceals the "identity."

The Leading Candidate is the New Beats Studio Pro

Currently, the most likely candidate is a new over-ear headphone from the Beats brand, particularly a successor or improved version of the Beats Studio Pro. The Beats Studio Pro was introduced in July 2023, about three years ago. Under Apple's umbrella, Beats has maintained a unique position with its brand identity distinct from AirPods, leveraging integration with Apple products, USB-C, spatial audio, and noise-canceling as its strengths.

The Beats Studio Pro is a top-tier headphone currently available at the Apple official store, featuring active noise cancellation, transparency mode, USB-C audio, and 3.5mm analog input, offering practical appeal different from the AirPods Max. Particularly, its foldable structure, relatively light wearing comfort, and flexibility, including wired connections, make it suitable for a wide range of uses, such as at the gym, during travel, or for editing work.

Therefore, it seems natural that A3577 could be the Beats Studio Pro 2 or a minor update of the Studio Pro. If Apple updates this line, enhancements equivalent to the H2 chip, improved pairing experience, enhanced noise-canceling, reduced latency, improved microphone performance, and extended battery life are expected. Of course, these are merely predictions at this point, but similar expectations are widely seen on social networks.

Why Beats, Not Apple Itself

When hearing that Apple is releasing new over-ear headphones, one might be tempted to imagine a derivative model of the AirPods Max. However, considering that Apple is simultaneously developing AirPods and Beats, the Beats theory is convincing.

The AirPods Max is a product that emphasizes luxury and integration with Apple devices. On the other hand, Beats is more casual, fashion-oriented, and strong in the context of sports and street. Since the price range, sales channels, and design direction differ, even though they are both "headphones," their roles differ for Apple.

Moreover, while the AirPods Max series has a presence as a high-end Apple genuine headphone, there have been long-standing pros and cons regarding its weight, price, case design, and limitations on wired use. The Beats Studio Pro, on the other hand, functions as a more manageable option that is easier to appeal to Android users. If A3577 is a new Beats product, Apple can maintain the premium route of the AirPods Max while targeting a broader market with Beats.

Especially in recent years, the headphone market has seen strong competition from rivals like Sony, Bose, and Sennheiser, with fierce competition in noise-canceling performance, wearing comfort, battery life, multipoint connectivity, and sound quality adjustment apps. There is a view that Beats needs a clear update to maintain its presence in this field. A3577 seems to coincide with that timing.

What the FCC Documents Don't Tell

The important aspect of this document is not what is known, but the abundance of unknowns. The model number, the product category of Bluetooth over-ear headphones, the presence of a built-in battery, microphone, and antenna, and the fact that the document is prepared for Apple are mainly what can be confirmed. The product name, design, release date, price, supported codecs, chip, battery life, noise-canceling performance, and color variations remain unknown.

Also, just because it appears in the FCC doesn't mean it will be released immediately. Generally, products are often announced relatively soon after passing certification, but in Apple's case, the timing can vary due to confidentiality periods, sales strategies, event schedules, and manufacturing schedules. AppleInsider speculates that it may appear in 2026, while noting that the FCC documents alone cannot determine the release timing.

At this stage, it's premature to definitively say "New AirPods Max confirmed" or "Beats Studio Pro 2 confirmed." Rather, this news should be seen as an indication that Apple may still have the intention to expand and update its audio product lineup.

On Social Media, "Isn't it Beats Studio Pro 2?" Voices Prevail

On social media and in comment sections, the reaction that stands out is, "Isn't this Beats Studio Pro 2?" On X, the initial post reporting the existence of A3577 spread, with the perception that "the FCC leaked Apple's next product first" gaining traction. Subsequently, Apple-related media and gadget accounts reacted in succession, introducing the view that it might be a new model from Beats rather than AirPods Max.

In the comments section of MacRumors, there are voices hoping for an update to the Beats Studio Pro. One user highly values the Beats Studio Pro as over-ear headphones suitable for gym use and leaves a comment expressing expectations for a successor in terms of durability and usability. Another user predicts an upgraded version equipped with the H2 chip, U1 chip, and wired input, showing anticipation for an evolution in internal specifications rather than just an appearance change.

On the other hand, reactions to the Beats brand are not all favorable. There are comments expressing dissatisfaction with the sound and sound quality during noise cancellation, providing harsh evaluations compared to Sony's high-end models. This well represents the dual nature of the Beats brand image. While some users appreciate its fashion sense, Apple integration, and bass enjoyment, others choose competitors for pure sound quality and noise-canceling performance.

Additionally, on X, there were reactions hoping for "AirPods Max 2?" but posts viewing it negatively due to the difference in model numbers can also be confirmed. Among overseas Apple-related accounts, there are many summaries like "It's not AirPods Max 2. It's a mysterious Bluetooth headphone," and questions like "Is it an updated Beats Studio Pro, or a separate line?" If we summarize the current atmosphere on social media, it's more about "deduction than surprise." There are no flashy leaked images, and Apple fans are solving a puzzle with only numbers and brief descriptions as clues.

If It's a Successor to Beats Studio Pro, What's Expected

If A3577 is a successor to the Beats Studio Pro, what users most expect is how much of Apple's technology, cultivated in AirPods Pro and AirPods Max, will be incorporated.

The chip is the first point of interest. Apple's audio experience changes significantly with the chip. Pairing speed, device switching, spatial audio, low latency, microphone processing, noise cancellation, etc., are aspects that, while not visibly apparent, greatly influence usability. Beats products, while having compatibility with the Apple ecosystem, are also open to Android, making the balance between Apple genuine and versatility important.

Next is noise-canceling performance. Since this is a very strong area for the latest models from Sony and Bose, improvement here is essential for Beats to compete seriously. The environments where headphones are used are diversifying, including commuting, airplanes, cafes, and gyms, and not only strong sound insulation but also natural external sound intake and low pressure are required.

Furthermore, wearing comfort and durability are important. On social media, there were voices evaluating the Beats Studio Pro for gym use. Considering use in sweaty environments, carrying it in a bag daily, and wearing it for long periods, lightness, the quality of ear pads, folding mechanisms, and ease of use of the case are directly linked to purchase decisions. If AirPods Max emphasizes luxury, Beats has room to lean more towards an active and practical direction.

Price will also be a major focus. The Beats Studio Pro is sold for 49,800 yen at the Japanese Apple official store. If a successor appears, will the price be maintained, raised in line with enhanced features, or will there be a campaign price considering competitors? Depending on Apple's pricing strategy, evaluations can change significantly.

A Product to Fill the "Gap" in Apple's Audio Strategy

Apple's audio products have built a strong ecosystem centered around the AirPods series. In true wireless earphones, there's AirPods; in high-end noise cancellation, there's AirPods Pro; in over-ear, there's AirPods Max; and as a separate brand, there's Beats. This lineup seems complete at first glance, but in reality, there are several gaps in terms of price, design, and usage.

For example, users who want over-ear headphones that are not as expensive and heavy as the AirPods Max but are more suitable for long listening than the AirPods Pro. Users who want integration with Apple devices but also want to use Android and wired connections. Users looking for versatile headphones that can be used not only for music but also for the gym, travel, video editing, gaming, and online meetings. Products in the Beats Studio Pro line can precisely target these areas.

If the A3577 is such a product, it would be a significant update for Apple. While placing the AirPods Max at the top, Beats can capture a wider price range and user base. This is a concept that also connects to the multiple line developments Apple has undertaken with the iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

High Expectations, But Still Just a "Mysterious Headphone"

The most important thing about this news is to separate expectations from facts. The facts that can be confirmed are that an unannounced Apple-related headphone with the model number A3577 appeared in FCC documents, it is described as Bluetooth over-ear headphones, it has a built-in battery, microphone, and antenna, and many details are kept confidential.

On the other hand, the name Beats Studio Pro 2, H2 chip inclusion, U1 support, release date, price, color variations, and sound quality evolution are still speculative at this stage. While the predictions that are gaining traction on social media are enjoyable, until Apple's official announcement, they should be viewed as "candidates."

Nevertheless, the appearance of A3577 is an unmissable sign for Apple fans. It may not be the AirPods Max, but that's what makes it interesting. How Apple positions Beats and what kind of over-ear headphones they will release next. The scant descriptions in the FCC documents have become a new entry point for deciphering Apple's audio strategy.

If this is a new Beats Studio Pro, the bar is not low. Competitors are strong, and users have discerning ears. However, if Apple's chip technology, Beats' brand power, and the powerful sound creation unique to over-ear headphones align well, A3577 may become a product that not only represents a minor update but also moves Apple's headphone strategy forward again.

What to watch for in the future are additional FCC document releases, official announcements from Apple or Beats, updates to sales pages, and leaks related to the supply chain or accessories. At this point, it is still just an outline, but that outline certainly points to the "next Apple headphones."

Source URL

9to5Mac: Referencing the appearance of Apple's unannounced Bluetooth over-ear headphones "A3577" in FCC documents, the mention of a built-in battery, microphone, antenna, and the uncertainty of whether it is an Apple or Beats product.
https://9to5mac.com/2026/05/22/unannounced-apple-headphones-revealed-in-fcc-documents/

MacRumors: Referencing that A3577 differs from the AirPods Max 2 model number A3454, many details are kept confidential, the theory of a Beats Studio Pro successor, and reactions in the comment section.
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/05/22/apple-beats-over-ear-headphones-fcc/

AppleInsider: Referencing the date on the FCC documents, FCC ID "BCGA3577," the possibility of appearing in 2026, the Beats Studio Pro candidate theory, and reactions in the comment section.
https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/05/23/fcc-filing-confirms-more-apple-headphones-on-the-way

Aaron Perris's X post: Referencing the initial discovery of A3577 confirmed in the FCC database and its spread on social media.
https://x.com/aaronp613/status/2057966702101434606

device.report: For confirmation of A3577's certification information, Apple Inc., Wireless Headphones, certification date, etc.
https://device.report/apple/A3577

Apple Official Store Japan: For confirmation of the current Beats Studio Pro price, features, and sales status.
https://www.apple.com/jp-edu/shop/product/mqtq3pa/a/beats-studio-pro%E3%83%AF%E3%82%A4%E3%83%A4%E3%83%AC%E3%82%B9%E3%83%98%E3%83%83%E3%83%89%E3%83%95%E3%82%A9%E3%83%B3-%E3%83%8D%E3%82%A4%E3%83%