So there’s good news and bad news. Apple’s new wireless AirPods are now available to order with deliveries scheduled for as soon as December 19, but Apple’s new BeatsX models won’t be released until later next year as recently rumored.

BeatsX earphones were originally announced in September with a release planned for ‘later this fall’ but have been pushed back to February. A reason for the delay has not been provided. The Beats website yesterday listed ‘late 2016’ for availability.

Like AirPods, BeatsX earphones rely on Bluetooth for wireless connectivity and the Apple-designed W1 chip for fast pairing, switching, and maintaining a reliable connection. AirPods and BeatsX are similarly priced at $159 and $149 although AirPods have slightly shorter battery life and don’t rely on a cable to connect each earphone.

Unlike Beats Solo3 and Powerbeats3 which both also have the new W1 chip, BeatsX use Lightning to recharge like the iPhone and not micro USB.

BeatsX have had less coverage than the more impressive AirPods, but CNET was able to do a quick hands-on.

9to5Mac will have a hands-on comparison of AirPods, Powerbeats3, and BeatsX when all models are available.

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