Today marks nine years since Apple introduced the original AirPods, which debuted in September 2016 alongside the iPhone 7 and became available on December 19, 2016, after a brief delay. At that time, while wireless headphones existed, they hadn’t achieved widespread popularity. AirPods redefined the category with their convenience and seamless integration with Apple devices. Featuring the Apple W1 chip, they offered high-quality sound, impressive battery life, and an effortless setup process. Priced at $159, the first-generation AirPods introduced features like one-tap pairing and in-ear detection, setting a new standard for wireless earbuds.
Initially met with skepticism due to their unique design and the removal of the headphone jack in the iPhone 7, AirPods were mocked online. However, their convenience, reliable performance, and long battery life quickly won over users, making them a popular choice among iPhone owners. AirPods have since become one of Apple’s most successful accessories, contributing significantly to the decline of traditional headphone jacks and becoming the best-selling wireless earbuds worldwide.
Over the years, AirPods have evolved through several generations, with improvements in audio quality, battery life, and features like hands-free “Hey Siri” and active noise cancellation. The product line has expanded to include the premium AirPods Pro and the over-ear AirPods Max. A fifth-generation model is reportedly in development, continuing the legacy of innovation that AirPods have established in the wireless earbud market.
