It’s a rumor, but there may be some nugget of truth to be found therein.
Per the hit-or-miss DigiTimes, Apple is considering bundling its AirPods in with the 2020 model iPhones.
The report claims “smartphone vendors including Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi are looking to bundle their new models with TWS earbuds next year,” citing unnamed industry sources. “TWS” or “truly wireless stereo” earphones include the likes of AirPods and Samsung’s Galaxy Buds.
There remains a fair amount of skepticism as to the rumor, as the AirPods start at $159 on their own. The product also sells extremely well on its own to the degree that customers have been happy to fork over large sums of cash for them. It’s also been noted that the demand for the new AirPods Pro earbuds is so high that Apple has reportedly doubled production of the units.
Apple has included basic, wired EarPods with a Lightning connector in the box with iPhones for several years. Those earphones likely cost Apple very little to manufacture, retailing for just $29 on its website.
While this rumor seems questionable for now, it is certainly possible that Apple simply feels it is time to include something more modern than EarPods with its iPhones. AirPods are already said to be the world’s best selling truly wireless earphones, and bundling them with iPhones would only extend that lead.
As always, stay tuned for additional details as they become available.