The first-generation AirPods launched almost a decade ago and introduced a tidal wave of ‘copy cats’ that were significantly more affordable, allowing phone makers to pretty much carve out a whole new market for themselves, while Apple continued to take the lion’s share of wireless earphones. Unfortunately, consumers also have a limited budget in which they supplement their phone purchase with a pair of affordable wireless accessories, and according to the latest data, the ‘AI headset’ market is currently dominated by products that cost $70 or less. Naturally, Apple only has the option to target one segment because of its position as a premium company.
‘AI headsets’ in the $139-$209 range currently make up 27 percent of the total Chinese market, indicating that Apple’s AirPods range still enjoys some sizable sales
The latest data shared by Runto Technology and reported by MyDrivers mentions that inexpensive AI headsets, which is just a fancy term for wireless earbuds and headphones, make up more than half of the Chinese market. Products priced below 500 yuan, which converts to $69.76, grabbed 60.1 percent of total sales, up from 18.8 percent garnered in the second half of 2024. Unfortunately, Apple’s AirPods are not expected to be included in this bracket, but that does not mean the lineup has not attained some popularity.
The same chart reveals that products in the 1,000-1,500 yuan range, or $139.50-$209.25, have secured 27 percent of the total market, while AI headsets priced above the 1,500 yuan mark having a measly 4 percent to their name. At this point, the affordable AirPods in Apple’s list are the AirPods 4 and are currently available for $99.99 on Amazon. These do not ship with any form of Active Noise Cancellation or silicone eartips for that secure fit. Apple also cannot launch an affordable version of AirPods because it would undermine its position as a company known for churning out high-quality products.
Additionally, looking at the AirPods 4, there is no telling what kind of trade-offs the sub-$70 in-ear earbuds would ship with to compete with other brands, meaning Apple is better off staying in its premium turf. The most it can capitalize on is bringing more features to this family, and that is exactly what we expect next month, starting with the AirPods Pro 3 unveiling.
News Source: MyDrivers
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