Companies like Apple and Samsung generally include a pair of earphones in the retail box of their premium devices. These companies also sell other hearables that come with several features. If a media report is to be believed, ‘smartphone vendors including Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi are looking to bundle their new models with TWS earbuds next year.’ Citing unnamed industry sources, DigiTimes reported that ‘TWS’ or ‘truly wireless stereo’ earphones include the likes of AirPods and Samsung's Galaxy Buds.
If true, it is likely that Apple will release the price of the iPhones next year -- something that has not gone very well with the company. In India, the AirPods can be purchased for Rs 14,999 and the regular in-box earphones cost about Rs 2,500. Apple is leading the hearables market, which means that consumers are ready to shell out extra money for the AirPods. Hence, it is very hard to digest that Apple would include a costly accessory in the box.
According to Counterpoint Research, Apple led the hearable market with the second generation AirPods sales. Although its share fell to 45 per cent in Q3 from 53 per cent in the previous quarter, it still retained the top spot. Samsung slipped to third place with six per cent share after Xiaomi rose to second spot from fourth, thanks to the Redmi Airdots -- a great budget product with a price point around $20.
Recently, Apple launched AirPods Pro that features Active Noise Cancellation and a new in-ear design. AirPods Pro are priced at Rs 24,900 and are equipped with an H1 chip that features 10 audio cores and delivers low audio processing latency for real-time noise cancellation. AirPods Pro comes with three different sizes of silicone ear tips and the product uses a vent system to equalise pressure and minimize discomfort. The AirPods Pro are sweat- and water-resistant.
AirPods Pro feature Adaptive EQ that automatically tunes the low- and mid-frequencies of the music. There is a custom high dynamic range amplifier that apart from producing clear sound, also extends battery life, and powers a custom high-excursion, low-distortion speaker driver. The driver provides rich bass down to 20Hz and mid- and high-frequency audio.