AirPods 5 Codenames Surface in macOS Update

What Are the Apple AirPods 5 Codenames and What Do They Reveal?

Apple AirPods 5 are the anticipated next-generation true wireless earbuds from Apple Inc., discovered through leaked model identifiers in a macOS update. These earbuds are expected to replace the current AirPods 4 lineup and solve the problem of outdated audio technology by introducing improved sound quality and lower latency. According to a report from Lowyatt.NET, the leak originates from the macOS Tahoe 26.7 update and reveals two distinct model identifiers.

**The macOS Tahoe 26.7 update contains references to two new AirPods 5 models, identified by the codenames B868M and B868E.**

Key Facts

2 The AirPods 5 codenames B868M and B868E appeared in the macOS Tahoe 26.7 update, mirroring the naming structure of the AirPods 4 series.

What Are the AirPods 5 Model Codenames Found in the macOS Update?

The AirPods 5 model codenames are B868M and B868E, spotted by MacRumors in the macOS Tahoe 26.7 update. MacRumors has a strong reason to believe these identifiers refer to the unannounced AirPods 5 models because they follow a similar naming structure to the previous-generation AirPods 4 models.

For reference, the AirPods 4 launched with two distinct models: one used the B768M identifier, while the other was labelled B768E and came with Active Noise Cancellation. Based on the similar naming convention, we could see a standard AirPods 5 model alongside a version with ANC in the near future.

"MacRumors, which spotted two different model identifiers in the macOS Tahoe 26.7 update: B868M and B868E. The publication has a strong reason to believe that these identifiers are referring to the unannounced AirPods 5 models, as they follow a similar naming structure to the previous-generation AirPods 4 models."

— MacRumors via Lowyat.NET

3 The B868M identifier likely represents the standard AirPods 5 model, while the B868E identifier likely represents the version with Active Noise Cancellation.

How Does the H3 Chip Improve AirPods Performance?

The H3 chip is Apple's next-generation audio processor expected to be featured in the upcoming AirPods 5 earbuds. According to the report, this chip is expected to offer improved sound quality and lower latency compared to the H2 chip currently used in the existing AirPods lineup. The complete specifications of the upcoming TWS earbuds remain unknown at the time of writing.

The shift from the H2 chip to the H3 chip is the primary upgrade discussed in the report. This change typically results in better battery efficiency and audio processing, though specific technical details were not provided in the source material.

4 The H3 chip is expected to deliver improved sound quality and lower latency compared to the H2 chip used in the current-generation AirPods.

When Will the AirPods 5 Be Released?

Apple has not confirmed a release date for the AirPods 5 models. However, Apple’s annual September launch event is fast approaching, according to the report. The AirPods 5 models could potentially debut alongside the company’s upcoming wave of smartphones, though their launch timing remains unclear.

The leak suggests that software references to upcoming Apple products are normal and can appear months before anything is officially announced. Gizmochina notes that these software references are fairly standard practice in the tech industry, appearing well in advance of physical product launches.

5 Apple has not confirmed the AirPods 5 launch date, but they could debut at the company’s annual September launch event alongside new smartphones.

Who Is This For?

This information is intended for consumers and tech analysts following Apple's wireless earbuds roadmap. The AirPods 5 will appeal to existing AirPods users looking for an upgrade from the AirPods 4, particularly those interested in potentially improved sound quality and lower latency offered by the expected H3 chip. The leaked details suggest Apple is targeting users who prioritize audio fidelity and active noise cancellation in their daily use.

6 The AirPods 5 is designed for current AirPods users and tech enthusiasts awaiting enhanced audio performance from a new Apple processor.

Common Questions

What do the codenames B868M and B868E indicate about AirPods 5?

These codenames indicate two distinct models, following the same pattern as the AirPods 4 where "M" likely means a standard version and "E" likely means a version with Active Noise Cancellation. The information is unconfirmed, but the similar naming structure supports this interpretation.

What chip will the AirPods 5 use?

The upcoming AirPods 5 are expected to feature Apple's new H3 chip, which is likely to offer improved sound quality and lower latency compared to the H2 chip in the current generation. Apple has not confirmed these specifications.

Is there a release date for the AirPods 5?

Apple has not confirmed a release date for the AirPods 5. However, the report suggests they could debut during the company's annual September launch event, though this remains speculation until an official announcement is made.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on a single report published by Lowyat.NET, which synthesizes information from two primary external sources: MacRumors (original leak detection) and Gizmochina (industry context). All facts regarding model identifiers, the macOS update version, and chip expectations are drawn directly from the referenced macOS Tahoe 26.7 leak. No facts have been independently verified by Apple, as the company has not confirmed these details.

This article was last updated on August 20, 2026.