
When Apple unveiled the first pair of AirPods in 2016, little did we know that they would go on to shape the true wireless earbuds market. The all-white design may not be for everyone, but once rival headphone makers began to see how popular it was, plenty set out to mimic the AirPods' iconic drop-stem shape and the slim rectangular charging case design. Some even figured out how to create smaller, sturdier, and more stylish AirPods alternatives.
While the design is a significant part of Apple's AirPods appeal, other factors have also contributed to their massive success. Innovative tech such as the first implementation of groundbreaking features like Ear Tip Fit Test and spatial audio, combined with a robust ecosystem are what place the AirPods, and the AirPods Pro 2 in particular, in a league of their own.