Audio · Retina & Beyond · 2016
AirPods (1st generation)
Mocked at launch as easy-to-lose toothbrush heads, AirPods became one of Apple’s most beloved products. The W1 made pairing magical (flip the lid, tap once), and the jokes stopped fast.
Truly wireless earbuds that paired instantly thanks to the custom W1 chip.
AirPods (2nd generation) (2019)
AirPods (1st generation): key facts
When was the AirPods (1st generation) released?
The AirPods (1st generation) arrived on December 13, 2016. Apple discontinued it in March 2019.
How much did the AirPods (1st generation) cost?
The AirPods (1st generation) launched at $159 in 2016, about $208 in today’s money (approximate, US CPI).
What specs stand out?
Key specs: Apple W1, Lightning (charging case).
Why does the AirPods (1st generation) matter?
Truly wireless earbuds that paired instantly thanks to the custom W1 chip.
Full specifications
| CPU | Apple W1 |
|---|---|
| Cores | 1 |
| Memory (RAM) | — |
| Storage | — |
| Display | — |
| GPU | — |
| Ports | Lightning (charging case) |
| Weight | 4 g each |
| Dimensions | In-ear + charging case |
| Operating system | AirPods firmware (W1) |
| Released | December 13, 2016 |
| Discontinued | March 2019 |
| Launch price | $159 |
How the AirPods (1st generation) compares to today
Launched at $159 in 2016, about $208 in today’s money (approx., US CPI).
Method note: clock comparisons use frequency only; price conversions use US CPI.
Sources
Specs checked against Apple technical specifications archive, EveryMac, Mactracker, Wikimedia Commons image credits.
Did you know?
They arrived the same year Apple removed the headphone jack from the iPhone, which was not a coincidence.
Related Audio models
Open the AirPods (1st generation) in the interactive archive →
Last updated: 2026-08-11