Release of AirPods postponed until next year

The AirPods were meant to hit stores in October, but that’s not going to happen. Oscar Raymundo reports

Apple has confirmed that the release of the new AirPods has been postponed, though it didn’t divulge a new release date or any other specifics as to what caused the delay. Apple first announced the £159 AirPods during its iPhone 7 even in early September, and claimed that they truly-wireless version of the EarPods would go on sale in late October. It’s now looking as though we’ll have to wait until early next year before we can get our hands on them.

“The early response to AirPods has been incredible. We don’t believe in shipping a product before it’s ready, and we need a little more time

before AirPods are ready for our customers,” an Apple spokesperson told TechCrunch.

The AirPods have a first-of-its-kind W1 chip for improved wireless connection, better battery life, and making it possible to automatically pair to a nearby iOS device. Apple’s truly-wireless headphones also incorporate special sensors to detect when they’re in your ears. According to Apple, the fully-charged AirPods last for about five hours of playback, and their carrying case can recharge them up to five times.

During the iPhone 7 event, the AirPods took the spotlight. Susie Ochs, our colleague at Macworld US found the AirPods to be surprisingly awesome. They stayed put in her ears even after considerable head-banging, and boasted impressive sound.

Now, it seems Apple may have been too ambitious with the AirPods and all its new wireless features and technology. Or, at least too ambitious given the original timeline. It makes sense that Apple would want to take the time to perfect the AirPods and get its technology right. They may help pave the way for Apple’s future as a truly-wireless product maker.