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*'''2nd generation''': {{Start date and age|2019|3|20}}
*'''2nd generation''': {{Start date and age|2019|3|20}}
*'''3rd generation''': {{Start date and age|2021|10|26}}
*'''3rd generation''': {{Start date and age|2021|10|26}}
*'''4th generation''': {{Start date and age|2024|09|20}}
*'''AirPods 4''': {{Start date and age|2024|09|20}}
}}
}}
| units sold =
| units sold =
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*'''1st generation''': [[Apple silicon#Apple W1|Apple W1]]
*'''1st generation''': [[Apple silicon#Apple W1|Apple W1]]
*'''2nd and 3rd generation''': [[Apple silicon#Apple H1|Apple H1]]
*'''2nd and 3rd generation''': [[Apple silicon#Apple H1|Apple H1]]
*'''4th generation''': [[Apple silicon#Apple H2|Apple H2]]
*'''AirPods 4''': [[Apple silicon#Apple H2|Apple H2]]
}}
}}
| discontinued = {{Plainlist|
| discontinued = {{Plainlist|
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}}
}}
| input = '''AirPods''' {{small|(each)}}<br />Dual beam-forming microphones, dual optical sensors
| input = '''AirPods''' {{small|(each)}}<br />Dual beam-forming microphones, dual optical sensors
| connectivity = '''AirPods''' {{small|(each)}}<br />[[Bluetooth]]<br />'''Charging case'''<br />[[Lightning (connector)|Lightning]] port (1st–3rd generation)<ref name="AirPods tech specs" /> <br />[[Qi (standard)|Qi]] (Wireless Charging Case for all models)<br />[[MagSafe (smartphones)|MagSafe]] (Wireless Charging Case for 3rd generation)<br />[[USB-C]] port (4th generation)<br />[[Apple Watch]] charger (Wireless Charging Case for 4th generation)
| connectivity = '''AirPods''' {{small|(each)}}<br />[[Bluetooth]]<br />'''Charging case'''<br />[[Lightning (connector)|Lightning]] port (1st–3rd generation)<ref name="AirPods tech specs" /> <br />[[Qi (standard)|Qi]] (Wireless Charging Case for all models)<br />[[MagSafe (smartphones)|MagSafe]] (Wireless Charging Case for 3rd generation)<br />[[USB-C]] port (AirPods 4)<br />[[Apple Watch]] charger (Wireless Charging Case for AirPods 4)
| currentfw = '''1st gen''': 6.8.8<ref name="auto">{{cite web | url= https://support.apple.com/en-us/106340 | title=About firmware updates for AirPods | access-date=September 12, 2022 | archive-date=January 9, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230109153323/https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213317 | url-status=live }}</ref> {{small|(December 2019)}}<ref name=":4" /><br />'''2nd gen''': 6A326<ref name="auto"/> {{small| (June 25, 2024)}}<br />'''3rd gen''': 6A326<ref name="auto"/> {{small|(June 25, 2024)}}
| currentfw = '''1st gen''': 6.8.8<ref name="auto">{{cite web | url= https://support.apple.com/en-us/106340 | title=About firmware updates for AirPods | access-date=September 12, 2022 | archive-date=January 9, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230109153323/https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213317 | url-status=live }}</ref> {{small|(December 2019)}}<ref name=":4" /><br />'''2nd gen''': 6A326<ref name="auto"/> {{small| (June 25, 2024)}}<br />'''3rd gen''': 6A326<ref name="auto"/> {{small|(June 25, 2024)}}
| dimensions = '''AirPods''' {{small|(each)}}<br />0.65 x 0.71 x 1.59 in<br />(16.5 x 18.0 x 40.5 mm)<br />'''Charging case'''<br />1.74 x 0.84 x 2.11 in<br />(44.3 x 21.3 x 53.5 mm)<ref name="AirPods tech specs" />
| dimensions = '''AirPods''' {{small|(each)}}<br />0.65 x 0.71 x 1.59 in<br />(16.5 x 18.0 x 40.5 mm)<br />'''Charging case'''<br />1.74 x 0.84 x 2.11 in<br />(44.3 x 21.3 x 53.5 mm)<ref name="AirPods tech specs" />
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On October 26, 2021, Apple released the third-generation AirPods, which feature an external redesign with shorter stems similar to [[AirPods Pro]], [[Surround sound|spatial audio]], [[IP Code|IPX4]] water resistance, longer battery life, and [[MagSafe (smartphones)|MagSafe]] charging capability.
On October 26, 2021, Apple released the third-generation AirPods, which feature an external redesign with shorter stems similar to [[AirPods Pro]], [[Surround sound|spatial audio]], [[IP Code|IPX4]] water resistance, longer battery life, and [[MagSafe (smartphones)|MagSafe]] charging capability.


On September 9, 2024, Apple announced the fourth generation AirPods, which feature the H2 chip, [[Bluetooth 5|Bluetooth 5.3]], and a [[USB-C]] charging case. A higher end model features [[Active noise control|active noise cancellation]] and a charging case that supports [[Qi (standard)|Qi]] and [[Apple Watch]] chargers.
On September 9, 2024, Apple announced the AirPods 4, which feature the H2 chip, [[Bluetooth 5|Bluetooth 5.3]], and a [[USB-C]] charging case. A higher end model features [[Active noise control|active noise cancellation]] and a charging case that supports [[Qi (standard)|Qi]] and [[Apple Watch]] chargers.


== Models ==
== Models ==
Line 71: Line 71:


=== 3rd generation ===
=== 3rd generation ===
[[File:AirPods 3.jpg|thumb|Third generation AirPods in their charging case]]
Apple announced the third generation AirPods on October 18, 2021. They feature an external redesign with shorter stems, similar to [[AirPods Pro]], and use similar force-touch controls. They include support for [[Surround sound|spatial audio]] and [[Dolby Atmos]], [[IP Code|IPX4]] water resistance, skin detection and a case supporting [[MagSafe (smartphones)|MagSafe]] charging. Apple claims increased battery life, with AirPods lasting six hours and the charging case providing up to 30 hours.<ref>{{citation|title=Apple announces new third-generation AirPods featuring Spatial Audio|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/gadgets/apple-announces-new-third-generation-airpods-featuring-spatial-audio-7578802/|date=October 18, 2021|website=The Indian Express|access-date=October 18, 2021|archive-date=October 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211018180702/https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/gadgets/apple-announces-new-third-generation-airpods-featuring-spatial-audio-7578802/|url-status=live}}</ref> Preorders of the third generation AirPods began on October 18, 2021. The third generation AirPods were released on October 26, 2021, and are priced at $179.<ref>{{citation|title=AirPods (3rd generation)|url=https://www.apple.com/airpods-3rd-generation/|website=Apple|access-date=October 19, 2021|archive-date=October 19, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211019002245/https://www.apple.com/airpods-3rd-generation/|url-status=live}}</ref> In September 2022, Apple released a $169 variant with a charging case lacking [[Qi (standard)|Qi]] and MagSafe charging compatibility.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple Releases Third-Generation AirPods With Non-MagSafe Charging Case |url=https://www.macrumors.com/2022/09/07/apple-launches-airpods-3-with-lightning-case/ |access-date=September 7, 2022 |website=MacRumors |date=September 7, 2022 |language=en |archive-date=September 7, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220907200653/https://www.macrumors.com/2022/09/07/apple-launches-airpods-3-with-lightning-case/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Apple announced the third generation AirPods on October 18, 2021. They feature an external redesign with shorter stems, similar to [[AirPods Pro]], and use similar force-touch controls. They include support for [[Surround sound|spatial audio]] and [[Dolby Atmos]], [[IP Code|IPX4]] water resistance, skin detection and a case supporting [[MagSafe (smartphones)|MagSafe]] charging. Apple claims increased battery life, with AirPods lasting six hours and the charging case providing up to 30 hours.<ref>{{citation|title=Apple announces new third-generation AirPods featuring Spatial Audio|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/gadgets/apple-announces-new-third-generation-airpods-featuring-spatial-audio-7578802/|date=October 18, 2021|website=The Indian Express|access-date=October 18, 2021|archive-date=October 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211018180702/https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/gadgets/apple-announces-new-third-generation-airpods-featuring-spatial-audio-7578802/|url-status=live}}</ref> Preorders of the third generation AirPods began on October 18, 2021. The third generation AirPods were released on October 26, 2021, and are priced at $179.<ref>{{citation|title=AirPods (3rd generation)|url=https://www.apple.com/airpods-3rd-generation/|website=Apple|access-date=October 19, 2021|archive-date=October 19, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211019002245/https://www.apple.com/airpods-3rd-generation/|url-status=live}}</ref> In September 2022, Apple released a $169 variant with a charging case lacking [[Qi (standard)|Qi]] and MagSafe charging compatibility.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple Releases Third-Generation AirPods With Non-MagSafe Charging Case |url=https://www.macrumors.com/2022/09/07/apple-launches-airpods-3-with-lightning-case/ |access-date=September 7, 2022 |website=MacRumors |date=September 7, 2022 |language=en |archive-date=September 7, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220907200653/https://www.macrumors.com/2022/09/07/apple-launches-airpods-3-with-lightning-case/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


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=== 4th generation ===
=== 4th generation ===
Apple announced the fourth generation AirPods on September 9, 2024. They feature redesigned earbud contours and speakers, the H2 chip, [[Bluetooth 5|Bluetooth 5.3]], [[IP code|IP54]] dust resistance, and a smaller charging case that supports [[USB-C]] charging. A higher-end version features [[Active noise control|active noise cancellation]] and a charging case with a speaker for [[Find My]] tracking and compatibility with [[Qi (standard)|Qi]] and [[Apple Watch]] chargers. The charging case no longer has magnets to mount on [[MagSafe (wireless charger)|MagSafe]] chargers due to its smaller size.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Welch |first=Chris |date=September 9, 2024 |title=AirPods 4 hands-on: noise cancellation for people who hate ear tips |url=https://www.theverge.com/2024/9/9/24239947/apple-airpods-4-hands-on-preview-features-anc |access-date=September 9, 2024 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref>
Apple announced the AirPods 4 on September 9, 2024. They feature redesigned earbud contours and speakers, the H2 chip, [[Bluetooth 5|Bluetooth 5.3]], [[IP code|IP54]] dust resistance, and a smaller charging case that supports [[USB-C]] charging. A higher-end version features [[Active noise control|active noise cancellation]] and a charging case with a speaker for [[Find My]] tracking and compatibility with [[Qi (standard)|Qi]] and [[Apple Watch]] chargers. The charging case no longer has magnets to mount on [[MagSafe (wireless charger)|MagSafe]] chargers due to its smaller size.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Welch |first=Chris |date=September 9, 2024 |title=AirPods 4 hands-on: noise cancellation for people who hate ear tips |url=https://www.theverge.com/2024/9/9/24239947/apple-airpods-4-hands-on-preview-features-anc |access-date=September 9, 2024 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref>


== Technical specifications ==
== Technical specifications ==
Line 90: Line 91:
The third-generation AirPods are fully compatible with devices running [[iOS 15]].1 or later, [[iPadOS 15]].1 or later, [[macOS Monterey]] 12.0 or later, and [[watchOS]] 8.1 or later.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://support.apple.com/en-ca/guide/airpods/dev8eff1958f/web|title=Get started with AirPods (3rd generation)|website=support.apple.com|access-date=March 22, 2022|archive-date=March 23, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220323003526/https://support.apple.com/en-ca/guide/airpods/dev8eff1958f/web|url-status=live}}</ref>
The third-generation AirPods are fully compatible with devices running [[iOS 15]].1 or later, [[iPadOS 15]].1 or later, [[macOS Monterey]] 12.0 or later, and [[watchOS]] 8.1 or later.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://support.apple.com/en-ca/guide/airpods/dev8eff1958f/web|title=Get started with AirPods (3rd generation)|website=support.apple.com|access-date=March 22, 2022|archive-date=March 23, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220323003526/https://support.apple.com/en-ca/guide/airpods/dev8eff1958f/web|url-status=live}}</ref>


The fourth-generation AirPods are fully compatible with devices running [[iOS 18]] or later, [[iPadOS 18]] or later, [[macOS Sequoia]] 15.0 or later, and [[watchOS]] 11 and later.
The AirPods 4 are fully compatible with devices running [[iOS 18]] or later, [[iPadOS 18]] or later, [[macOS Sequoia]] 15.0 or later, and [[watchOS]] 11 and later.


=== Support ===
=== Support ===

Latest revision as of 03:00, 14 November 2024

This article is about the wireless earbuds. For the newer type of wireless earbuds created by the same company, see AirPods Pro. For the car, see AIRPod.
Not to be confused with iPod.

AirPods
First generation AirPods
DeveloperApple
Manufacturer
Product familyAirPods
TypeWireless earbuds
Release date
  • 1st generation: December 13, 2016; 7 years ago (2016-12-13)
  • 2nd generation: March 20, 2019; 5 years ago (2019-03-20)
  • 3rd generation: October 26, 2021; 3 years ago (2021-10-26)
  • AirPods 4: September 20, 2024; 2 months ago (2024-09-20)
Discontinued
  • 1st generation: March 20, 2019 (2019-03-20)
  • 2nd and 3rd generation: September 9, 2024 (2024-09-09)
System on a chip
InputAirPods (each)
Dual beam-forming microphones, dual optical sensors
ConnectivityAirPods (each)
Bluetooth
Charging case
Lightning port (1st–3rd generation)[1]
Qi (Wireless Charging Case for all models)
MagSafe (Wireless Charging Case for 3rd generation)
USB-C port (AirPods 4)
Apple Watch charger (Wireless Charging Case for AirPods 4)
Current firmware1st gen: 6.8.8[2] (December 2019)[3]
2nd gen: 6A326[2] (June 25, 2024)
3rd gen: 6A326[2] (June 25, 2024)
DimensionsAirPods (each)
0.65 x 0.71 x 1.59 in
(16.5 x 18.0 x 40.5 mm)
Charging case
1.74 x 0.84 x 2.11 in
(44.3 x 21.3 x 53.5 mm)[1]
MassAirPods (each)
0.14 ounces (4.0 g)
Charging case
1.34 ounces (38 g)[1]
RelatedAirPods Pro
Websiteapple.com/airpods

AirPods are wireless Bluetooth earbuds designed by Apple. They were first announced on September 7, 2016, alongside the iPhone 7. Within two years, they became Apple's most popular accessory.[4][5] AirPods are Apple's entry-level wireless headphones, sold alongside the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max.

In addition to playing audio, the AirPods contain a microphone that filters out background noise as well as built-in accelerometers and optical sensors capable of detecting taps and pinches (e.g. double-tap or pinch to pause audio) and placement within the ear, which enables automatic pausing of audio when they are taken out of the ear.[6]

On March 20, 2019, Apple released the second-generation AirPods, which feature the H1 chip, longer talk time, and hands-free "Hey Siri" support. A higher-end version includes a charging case that supports Qi charging.

On October 26, 2021, Apple released the third-generation AirPods, which feature an external redesign with shorter stems similar to AirPods Pro, spatial audio, IPX4 water resistance, longer battery life, and MagSafe charging capability.

On September 9, 2024, Apple announced the AirPods 4, which feature the H2 chip, Bluetooth 5.3, and a USB-C charging case. A higher end model features active noise cancellation and a charging case that supports Qi and Apple Watch chargers.

Models

[edit]

1st generation

[edit]
First generation AirPods

Apple announced the first generation of AirPods on September 7, 2016, at an Apple Special Event alongside the iPhone 7 and Apple Watch Series 2. Apple originally planned to release the AirPods in late October,[7] but delayed the release date.[8] On December 13, 2016, Apple began taking online orders for AirPods. They were available at Apple Stores, Apple Authorized Resellers, and select carriers on December 20, 2016.[9][10]

AirPods contain a proprietary Apple W1 SoC processor which helps optimize battery use as well as the Bluetooth 4.2 and audio connections. The advanced connectivity functions of the W1 requires devices running iOS 10, macOS Sierra, watchOS 3, or later.[1] They can also function as standard Bluetooth headphones when connected to any device that supports Bluetooth 4.0 or higher, including Windows laptops and Android devices.[11][12][13][14]

There are two microphones inside each AirPod, one facing outward at ear level and another at the bottom of the stem.[15][16] Each AirPod weighs 0.14 oz (4.0 g), and its charging case weighs 1.34 oz (38 g). The AirPods are capable of holding a charge of around five hours. Charging them for fifteen minutes in the case gives three hours of listening time.[16] The charging case provides 24 hours of total usage time.[17] During a complete dismantling, each AirPod was found to contain a 93 milliwatt hour battery in its stem, while the charging case contains a 1.52 watt hour or 398 mAh at 3.81 V battery.[18]

The model numbers for the first-generation AirPods are A1523 and A1722.[19]

Production of the first-generation AirPods was discontinued on March 20, 2019, after the second generation was released.[20]

2nd generation

[edit]

Apple announced the second generation AirPods on March 20, 2019.[21][22] They are the same design as the first generation, but have updated features.[22] They include an H1 processor which supports hands-free "Hey Siri", Bluetooth 5 connectivity. Apple also claims 50% more talk time and faster device connection times.[22] The "Announce Messages with Siri" feature was added in iOS 13.2, which allows the user to dictate text messages to Siri.[23]

Second generation AirPods in their charging case

Second-generation AirPods can be purchased with the same charging case as the first generation, or in a higher-end configuration that comes bundled with the Wireless Charging Case, which can be used with Qi chargers. The Wireless Charging Case can be purchased separately and is compatible with first-generation AirPods. It moves the charging indicator LED to the exterior of the case.[24] The Wireless Charging Case was initially announced in September 2017 alongside the AirPower charging mat, but was delayed by AirPower's protracted development and eventual cancellation.[25] The second generation AirPods remained on sale with a price cut following the release of the third generation in October 2021, but only available with the Lightning charging case.

The model numbers for the second-generation AirPods are A2032 and A2031.[19]

3rd generation

[edit]
Third generation AirPods in their charging case

Apple announced the third generation AirPods on October 18, 2021. They feature an external redesign with shorter stems, similar to AirPods Pro, and use similar force-touch controls. They include support for spatial audio and Dolby Atmos, IPX4 water resistance, skin detection and a case supporting MagSafe charging. Apple claims increased battery life, with AirPods lasting six hours and the charging case providing up to 30 hours.[26] Preorders of the third generation AirPods began on October 18, 2021. The third generation AirPods were released on October 26, 2021, and are priced at $179.[27] In September 2022, Apple released a $169 variant with a charging case lacking Qi and MagSafe charging compatibility.[28]

The model numbers for the third-generation AirPods are A2565 and A2564.[29]

4th generation

[edit]

Apple announced the AirPods 4 on September 9, 2024. They feature redesigned earbud contours and speakers, the H2 chip, Bluetooth 5.3, IP54 dust resistance, and a smaller charging case that supports USB-C charging. A higher-end version features active noise cancellation and a charging case with a speaker for Find My tracking and compatibility with Qi and Apple Watch chargers. The charging case no longer has magnets to mount on MagSafe chargers due to its smaller size.[30]

Technical specifications

[edit]

The electronics and circuitry responsible for the audio drivers and Bluetooth transmission are stored entirely within the head of the AirPod. The battery is stored in the stem. The battery and circuit boards are connected via flex/ribbon cable.[citation needed]

Compatibility

[edit]

AirPods are compatible with any device that supports Bluetooth 4.0 or higher, including Android and Windows devices, although certain features such as automatic switching between devices are only available on Apple devices using iCloud.[12]

The first-generation AirPods are fully compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch models with iOS 10 or later, Apple Watch models with watchOS 3 or later, and Mac models with macOS Sierra or later.[31]

The second-generation AirPods are fully compatible with devices running iOS 12.2 or later, macOS Mojave 10.14.4 or later, and watchOS 5.2 or later.[32]

The third-generation AirPods are fully compatible with devices running iOS 15.1 or later, iPadOS 15.1 or later, macOS Monterey 12.0 or later, and watchOS 8.1 or later.[33]

The AirPods 4 are fully compatible with devices running iOS 18 or later, iPadOS 18 or later, macOS Sequoia 15.0 or later, and watchOS 11 and later.

Support

[edit]

The lithium-ion batteries in AirPods can see significant degradation over time, with two-year-old sets lasting for less than half of the advertised five hours.[34][35] Apple has a program to service batteries and purchase replacement individual AirPods and charging cases. The replacement of one or both AirPods or the charging case has a lower price with AppleCare+ than without.[36] Apple offers battery servicing for free with AppleCare+ and for a fee without. However, this is just a replacement service, as AirPods cannot be repaired without destroying their outer case, resulting in a 0/10 repairability score.[36][37]

AirPods contain upgradeable firmware. Its original firmware was version 3.3.1. In February 2017, Apple released version 3.5.1,[38] 3.7.2 in May 2017,[39] and then 6.3.2 on March 26, 2019.[40] In July 2019, version 6.7.8 was released and 6.8.8 followed in September 2019.[3] In June 2020, firmware 2D15 was released (G2).[41] In September 2020, firmware 3A283 (G2 and Pro) was released[42] and in April 2021, firmware 3E751.[43] AirPods automatically sync through Apple's iCloud service, allowing users to switch audio sources to other supported devices connected by the same Apple ID.[44]

Comparative technical specifications of all AirPods models
In production Discontinued Vintage Obsolete[45]
Model iPhone Bluetooth Headset[46] AirPods
(1st gen) 		AirPods
(2nd gen) 		AirPods Pro
(1st gen) 		AirPods Max AirPods
(3rd gen) 		AirPods Pro
(2nd gen) 		AirPods
(4th gen) 		AirPods
(4th gen with ANC)
Timeline Announced January 9, 2007[47] September 7, 2016 March 20, 2019 October 28, 2019 December 8, 2020 October 18, 2021 September 7, 2022 September 9, 2024
Released June 29, 2007[47] December 13, 2016 October 30, 2019 December 15, 2020 October 26, 2021 September 23, 2022 September 20, 2024
Discontinued March 23, 2009[47] March 20, 2019 September 9, 2024 September 7, 2022 In production September 9, 2024 In production In production
Model Model number[48] L A1221 A1722 A2031 A2084 A2096 A2564 A2931, A2699, A2698 A3053, A3050, A3054 A3056, A3055, A3057
R A1523 A2032 A2083 A2565
Case A1602 (Lightning) A1602 (Lightning)
A1938 (Wireless, Lightning) 		A2190 (Wireless, Lightning)
A2190 (MagSafe, Lightning) 		A2897 (Lightning)
A2566 (MagSafe, Lightning) 		A2700 (MagSafe, Lightning)
A2968 (MagSafe, USB-C) 		A3058 (USB-C) A3059 (Wireless, USB-C)
Model identifier [data missing] AirPods1,1 AirPods2,1 iProd8,1 iProd8,6 AirPods1,3 AirPodsPro1,2 and AirPods3,1 AirPods1,4 and AirPods3,2[49] AirPods1,4 and AirPods3,3[49]
Order numbers MA817AM (with iPhone dual dock)
MB536AM (without iPhone dual dock) 		MMEF2AM MV7N2AM (Lightning)
MRXJ2AM (wireless) 		MWP22AM MGYJ3AM (silver)
MGYH3AM (space gray)
MGYL3AM (sky blue)
MGYM3AM (pink)
MGYN3AM (green)
(Lightning)
(midnight)
(starlight)
(blue)
(orange)
(purple) (USB-C)
 MME73AM MQD83AM
Compatibility Bluetooth 2.0 iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch models with iOS 10 or later, Apple Watch models with watchOS 3 or later, and Mac models with macOS Sierra or later.[50] Devices running iOS 12.2 or later, macOS Mojave 10.14.4 or later, and watchOS 5.2 or later.[51] Devices that support Bluetooth, including Android and Windows devices, although certain features such as Siri require an Apple device running iOS 13.2, watchOS 6.1, tvOS 13.2, and macOS Catalina 10.15.1 Devices that support Bluetooth, including Android and Windows devices, although certain features such as Siri require an Apple device running iOS 14.3, iPadOS 14.3, watchOS 7.2, tvOS 14 or macOS Big Sur.[52] Devices that support Bluetooth, including Android and Windows devices, although certain features such as Siri require an Apple device running iOS 15.1 or later, iPadOS 15.1 or later, macOS Monterey 12.0 or later, and watchOS 8.1 or later.[53] Devices that support Bluetooth, including Android and Windows devices, although certain features such as Siri require an Apple device running iOS 15.1 or later, iPadOS 15.1 or later, macOS Monterey 12.0 or later, and watchOS 8.1 or later.[53]
System on a chip None Apple W1 chip Apple H1 chip (343S00289, 343S00290) Apple H1 chip Apple H1 chip (343S00404) Apple H1 chip Apple H2 chip Apple H2 chip
Battery Strength Per AirPod [data missing] 0.093 Wh 0.16 Wh 2 × 2.53 Wh (right ear cup) 0.133 Wh ? ?
Case 1.52 Wh 1.98 Wh 1.33 Wh 1.997 Wh ?
Capacity No case 398 mAh (case) 519 mAh (case) 664 mAh (right ear cup) 345 mAh (case) 523 mAh (case)
Firmware Original release Not upgradable 3.3.1 6.3.2 2B584 3C16 3E751 5A374
Latest / final[54] 6.8.8 6A326 6A326 6A326 (Lighting) 7A291 (USB-C) 6A326 7A302 7A304 7A304


Sales

[edit]

Analysts estimate Apple sold between 14 million and 16 million AirPods in 2017.[55] In 2018, AirPods were Apple's most popular accessory product, with 35 million units sold.[56][57] 60 million units were sold in 2019.[58] Analysts estimate AirPods make up 60% of the global wireless headphone market and that Apple's entire Wearables products (Apple Watch, AirPods, and AirPods Pro) "is now bigger than 60% of the companies in the Fortune 500".[59][60][58] An estimated 5-7% of Apple's revenue from AirPods comes from replacement earbuds and cases.[61] Analysts estimate Apple sold 120 million or so pairs in 2021.[62]

Cultural impact

[edit]

On announcement day, AirPods were compared to Apple's previously existing EarPods (2012–present), with The Verge noting "They look... just like the old EarPods, with the wires cut off."[63] Initially mocked by many for their unfamiliar design (including CNN asking "Would people actually wear these?" in 2016),[64] their popularity grew rapidly over the years and they were voted the most popular "hearable" brand of 2019.[5]

At an Apple earnings call in 2019, CEO Tim Cook called AirPods "nothing less than a cultural phenomenon".[65] AirPods had become a viral sensation with memes circulating across the internet about its appearance and its relation to the removal of the headphone jack in iPhones.[66] However, as time wore on, AirPods became known as a status symbol.[62][67][68]

Criticism

[edit]

AirPods have been criticized for their high price; however, at launch they were actually priced less than most "true wireless" earbuds on the market (e.g. the Samsung Gear IconX and Bragi Dash) and remain competitively priced with similar products from other major brands.[69][70][71]

Since AirPods can easily be worn for long periods of time, AirPods have also had an effect on how people interact with each other. Having earphones in is generally perceived as a "do not disturb" signal, and some AirPods users use this fact to strategically avoid awkward small talk.[72] But in the collaborative workplace, constant use of AirPods has sometimes been interpreted as a sign of disrespect to co-workers, causing conflict in the office.[73]

Another prominent criticism was a problem that caused the charging case battery to deplete at a rapid rate despite the AirPods not being used. Users were reporting upwards of 30% idle discharge per day.[74] In response, Apple released a firmware update (version 3.5.1) for the AirPods, which addressed connectivity and battery drain problems.[75] Students and college professors from the George Washington University have commented that AirPods have decreased students' daily social interactions.[76]

According to the Financial Times, AirPods are difficult if not impossible to recycle, and not designed to be repairable.[77]

Replacement for hearing aids

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In 2022, researchers at the Taipei Veterans General Hospital in Taiwan compared the performance of AirPods 2 and the original AirPods Pro using Live Listen on an iPhone or iPad to compare to medical hearing aids. Oticon Opn 1 was the high-end comparison, with Bernafon MD1 as the more affordable alternative. The performance of the systems was at least assisting participants with Pro (including noise canceling features) being better and approximating the hearing aids.[78]

Competition

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Some consumers expressed the viewpoint that there were better options for wireless earphones based on quality and cost.[79][80] One of Apple's biggest competitors is Samsung, which markets wireless earbuds that are very similar to AirPods.[81] Another similar product line is from Apple's Beats Electronics, which sells products such as the Powerbeats Pro wireless earbuds.[82]

See also

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References

[edit]
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