This time last year, we were being inundated with all of the reports and rumors of a new iPhone without a headphone jack. There was endless debate in tech blogs and on podcasts leading up to the release, then we had Phil Schiller telling us how “brave” Apple was. Then we had more hand-wringing and opinions after the new iPhone 7 and 7 Plus launched. It finally did die down after a while, but it was all anyone in tech was talking about for a LONG time.
I’ve been covering my experience with Apple’s AirPods in a series of articles since I got them a little over a month ago. Over the first two installments (here and here), all was well and Apple’s popular new wearable really grew on me more than I expected. Unfortunately, I ran into a few problems that I covered in my third installment.
My first two posts on my experiences with Apple’s AirPods (here and here) were very positive. In fact, the more I’ve used them, the more I enjoy them. However, some issues started appearing a couple of weeks ago and they have grown progressively worse since. I think I am at the point of having to go to the Apple Store to start the process to get a replacement set.
Do you ever feel like your Apple EarPods or AirPods are just going to fall right out of your ears? Or DO they actually fall out on you? I’ve never had this issue, but my wife does, and I have heard from plenty of other users who have problems with this design, as well.
I’ve been using my Apple AirPods for around two weeks now, so I have gotten a pretty good feel for how they work at this point, and have figured out more of their strengths and weaknesses. All things considered, the experience has still been very good overall.
I was finally able to get my hands on a pair of Apple’s latest hard to find hit. If you are still looking for a set of AirPods without the three to four week wait, keep an eye on AT&T, website. When they get them in stock, they process the orders quickly and have free shipping in the US. I got mine two business days after ordering, so I was happy with the experience, and was glad to not have to pay a premium or wait a month to get them.
In my opinion, one of the best features of any mobile accessory is versatility. I spend a lot of time on the go during the day, and do a fair amount of travelling for work, so earning a place in my gear bag is a badge of honor, and it usually requires a certain measure of versatility. The more bases a device or accessory can cover, the better the chance that it holds a spot there.
In the past, versatility was a given with headphones and earbuds. You plugged them into a jack and they just worked. With Bluetooth headphones, there came more freedom of movement, but with the conditions of only being compatible with certain devices and limited battery life. Now, iOS users are faced with even more complications with the removal of the iPhone’s headphone jack going forward, with several other smartphone manufacturers now making the same move right behind them. If you own both an iPhone 7 or 7 Plus and an iPad, complications with earbuds or headphones will ensue.