The Most Popular Headphones on Earth
Apple’s AirPods have become synonymous with wireless earbuds. Their sleek design, seamless integration with Apple devices, and convenience have made them a favorite among consumers. Now, Apple has released the latest addition to the AirPods lineup – the AirPods 3. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the new features and improvements in the AirPods 3.
A Familiar Design with Some Tweaks
The design of the AirPods 3 is quite similar to the AirPods Pro, but without the silicon tips. It features the same one-size-fits-all hard tip from the previous AirPods models. The slight adjustment in shape, with a larger opening at the end and a bigger bulb, aims to provide a better fit for most users. However, some people, like the author of this blog, may still prefer silicon tips for a more secure fit.
The controls on the AirPods 3 have been moved to the stem, similar to the AirPods Pro. Users can easily squeeze the stem to play and pause music or double tap to skip to the next song. While the AirPods 3 do not have active noise cancellation, they feature adaptive EQ, which allows some external sound to pass through for a more open listening experience.
Enhanced Durability and Improved Case
The AirPods 3 are now sweat and water-resistant, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor activities. The new horizontal case, which resembles the AirPods Pro case, is smaller and more compact. It is also the first time the AirPods case is officially IPX4 water-resistant. Additionally, the case is now MagSafe compatible, allowing it to securely attach to the iPhone’s MagSafe charging puck.
It’s worth noting that the MagSafe wireless charging case is not exclusive to the AirPods 3. Apple quietly updated the AirPods Pro case to be compatible with MagSafe as well, although it lacks the official water resistance of the AirPods 3 case.
The Sound Quality You’ve Been Waiting For
One of the most significant improvements in the AirPods 3 is the sound quality. Previous AirPods models have been criticized for their weak and tinny sound. However, the AirPods 3 offer a surprisingly respectable sound experience. With better bass frequencies and more body, they deliver a solid listening experience. They also provide ample volume and get plenty loud.
It’s important to note that the AirPods 3 do not have built-in EQ like some other headphones. Apple has tuned them to be good for a wide range of uses, including phone calls, podcasts, music, and movies. The focus on vocal frequencies ensures clear and balanced sound across various genres and media types.
One notable feature that Apple often highlights is spatial audio. While not everyone may use this feature frequently, it can enhance the audio experience for certain tracks and videos. Spatial audio simulates a small room with speakers in front of you, creating an immersive soundstage. While this experience is limited to specific mixes and tracks, it showcases the AirPods 3’s ability to create a spatial audio effect.
Choosing the Right Earbuds for You
The AirPods 3 occupy a unique position in the market. They may not excel in any particular category, but they offer a well-rounded experience for daily use. With a reasonable six-hour battery life, a compact case that supports wireless charging, and seamless integration with Apple devices, they tick all the boxes for a convenient and reliable pair of earbuds.
However, the competition in the earbud market has intensified in recent years. There are other options available that may better suit specific needs. For example, the Beats Fit Pro offers an excellent in-ear fit and is ideal for workouts, while the Sony WF-1000XM4 provides exceptional sound quality. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preferences and priorities.
The Phenomenon of AirPods
The popularity of AirPods cannot be understated. If AirPods were a standalone company, it would be worth an estimated $175 billion. This remarkable figure demonstrates the appeal and widespread adoption of AirPods among consumers. While they may not be the absolute best in every aspect, their integration into the iPhone ecosystem and overall convenience make them an easy choice for many.
In conclusion, the AirPods 3 offer several improvements over their predecessors. With a familiar design, enhanced durability, improved sound quality, and convenient features, they continue to provide a compelling option in the wireless earbud market. Whether you’re a long-time AirPods user or considering purchasing your first pair, the AirPods 3 are definitely worth considering.