Have you noticed how many people are walking down the street with AirPods in their ears? This is not a coincidence. AirPods have become much more than wireless headphones. From brands that blatantly copy your design until we love them at all costs, even if they don't have an iPhone as a phone.
The numbers are compelling: Last year, Apple aimed to generate $22 billion from its AirPods alone, and projections indicate that by 2030 they could reach $45 billion.
We're talking about the fact that just with AirPods revenue alone, Apple makes more money than many other companies, like Spotify. But beyond the astronomical numbers, there's something interesting about how these little devices have changed the way we not only listen to music, but even talk on the phone and communicate.
The silent revolution of AirPods
I still remember that iPhone 7 keynote… Apple has removed the 3.5mm jack! What were we going to do? That's when Tim Cook took the stage and introduced AirPods. A familiar but completely new concept. An idea as simple as it is revolutionary. As if they cut the cable from traditional EarPods. Neither more nor less. A simple, functional and above all aesthetic design. That it wouldn’t be “embarrassing” to carry them down the street. Something which, far from it, has become a source of pride. “Yes, I have AirPods.”
First generation of AirPods with the iPhone 7
When I looked at the usage data, I was surprised to find that 70% of users use them primarily for working or studying, not listening to music. This happens to me myself: I wear AirPods just so I can talk or send audio walk in the street (or not hear my neighbors). Merging AirPods with an Apple TV is already something otherworldly.
But back to the data…this is where the generational factor comes in. For people born between the mid-90s and early 2010s, AirPods are part of their digital identity. Actually, 60% of its American users are between 18 and 25 years old. This is the generation that grew up with the iPhone, and for them, AirPods are as essential as the charger.
The success of AirPods beyond sales
The curious thing is that even Apple was surprised by the continued success. AirPods Pro continue to sell well above expectations. But beyond the numbers, there's something that makes them special: they've redefined the way we interact with the world. Already It's not uncommon to see someone at the supermarket with AirPods while traveling or in a work meeting.. They no longer look at us strangely if we talk “alone” in the street, and now with AirPods 4 and their noise cancellation, entering our own bubble is within the reach of many other people.
When Apple launched the first AirPods in 2016, many laughed at its design. Today, you only need to browse any store to see that virtually every brand has copied its aesthetic. And the figures confirm it: even if Apple maintains a dominant position of 19% of the global wireless earphone market, they are closely followed by Sony with 17% and Samsung with 16%.
Design of Samsung Galaxy Buds
The funny thing is, they didn't just copy the design, but the whole experience: the little charging case, the instant connection, even the characteristic white color. But there's something other brands haven't been able to replicate: that cool factor that makes Gen Z prefer the originals.
A simple search for headphones on Amazon returns dozens of knockoffs
The paradox of Generation Z: they want everything from Apple, but not at any price
While 62% of young people aged 18 to 24 own AirPods, this same generation is increasingly opting for second-hand iPhones. Indeed, in 2024, 16% of these young people have chosen a refurbished iPhone, double the number from the previous year. The reason? They want to be part of the Apple ecosystem, but are aware of their economic limits.
Generation Z is arriving in force: they are demanding better working conditions because, yes, The salary is not enough for a new iPhone and AirPods. It's a trend that says a lot about how Gen Z views technology: They don't need the latest stuff, but they want to be part of the club. AirPods have become this “most accessible” accessory which allows them to be in the Apple ecosystem without having to pay 1,000 dollars for an iPhone 16.
Google search for “Android AirPods” and “Android Earbuds”
In fact, just look at Google search trends. Even the term “AirPods Android” has more searches as “Android Headphones”. Posture? In the case of Android, yes. And, although they are compatible, the AirPods experience is complete (sound + design + ecosystem). When you use them with Android, one of these three bases falls out.
Many will accuse Gen Z of posturing, and there may be some truth to that. But one thing is indisputable: AirPods are a quality product and this is an argument that no one questions. There have always been fashions. Before, it was Nike, Vans or a Walkman; today it's AirPods. Generation Z is not only looking to fit in, but also to make the most of their technology. And on that point, who can blame them for choosing AirPods?
Cover image | free pik
Data sources | Sonarworks and the coolest
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