Apple’s AirPods to Hit Retail Stores Starting Tomorrow

Starting tomorrow, the 19th of December, 2016, eager audiophiles can get their hands on the highly anticipated AirPods in Apple’s retail stores. This news was anonymously relayed to the tech community by a single retail source, and later confirmed by Apple, putting an end to speculation about the precise in-store release date.

The AirPods initially launched online on the 13th of December. However, due to restricted supply, not every consumer was able to place an order immediately. Early adopters who managed to secure their order when the AirPods first became available can expect to receive their shipments within this week. For those who missed the online availability, a stroll down to the nearest Apple store might be their best bet to snag the wireless device before the holiday season. As a sign of anticipated activity, credit cards are already being charged and shipments have begun in areas like Australia, ahead of the advertised December 19 delivery dates.

AirPods, designed as a solution to the missing headphone jack on the new iPhone 7, feature a faster wireless pairing process compared to traditional Bluetooth connections. It also boasts an infrared feature that wisely recognizes when they are nestled in a user’s ears, and automatically halts audio playback once removed – making for a seamless audio experience.

Powered by the new Apple W1 chip, the AirPods promise efficient wireless communication, enhanced sound quality, and an industry-leading battery life. Additionally, Apple has redefined convenience by integrating Siri into the AirPods, allowing users to double tap the AirPods to access the virtual assistant – making the AirPods more than just a music playback device but a full blown personal assistant.

The AirPods are priced at $159 USD (or approximately 76,800 Naira), .