Are Apple’s AirPods Ready For the Public?

Gone are the days of the 3.5 mm headphone jack, in addition to wired head phones. Is this the way of the future? According to Apple, it sure is. Still, it’s been a long time coming, and customers are chomping at the bit for a chance to snag the $159 (yes, you read that correctly) wireless ear buds. But, one question remains: Are they ready for public consumption?

Many will attempt to be the first in line for this luxury Apple product, much like customers do each time a new phone or accessory is available online or in store. It’s brand loyalty to the extreme, which keeps Apple on top in terms of technological advancement and public preference.  I won’t deny it: I’m one of the many who has flocked to the Apple store to purchase the latest and greatest device or product. But this time, I’m not so sure…

Aside from the price point, these puppies last only about 5 hours after one charge in their little carrier. For an avid music listener like myself, I’m accustomed to charging my phone to listen to music for hours on end, but now BOTH devices will need to be charged. Still, a quick 15 minute charge will give you about 3 hours of listening time. Not bad, but not convenient.

Now, can we talk about how small these things are?! Raise your hand if your future AirPod is already lost (*raises both hands). Though it’s speculated that purchasing just one AirPod could be a future option, it’s certainly an expensive one. Funny enough, these wireless ear buds have a $10 dongle cord available on Amazon to keep them together to prevent loss. Strange, considering the point of these is to be wireLESS, but nonetheless convenient.

It is no surprise that this is the way of the future in terms of music consumption. It’s a game changer, and one that will be the catalyst by which new, less expensive – but equitable – versions of the AirPod will be developed. Apple is a trailblazer, and one that has changed the face of technological advancement and human connection in a relatively short period of time. Though it may take some getting used to, I have a feeling the AirPods will be as commonplace in the next 5-10 years as iPhones are now.