Here's how much Apple AirPods cost in 2016 vs. 2026
First introduced in 2016, AirPods have improved in quality, offering a bevy of new features, but how has that impacted the cost to the consumer today?
In 2016, Apple introduced AirPods, its first wireless earbuds, at an affordable price of $159. This represented a significant departure from previous tech offerings that had seen steep price hikes over the past decade. By 2026, the base model AirPods was still priced at $129, and new models offered even better features, such as spatial audio and improved battery life.
Despite inflation, AirPods have maintained a cheaper price compared to other tech devices, and their integration with the Apple ecosystem has allowed them to hold onto their affordability.
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