The Apple AirPods have been another popular device for the company, and things could get even better for Apple next year. According to a recent report from Ming-Chi Kuo from Strategy Analytics, sales of the headphones are expected to double in 2018.
Apple is expected to sell between 26 million and 28 million units of their AirPods in 2018, which would be around double that of the 2017 sales.
Strong Demand and Improved Supply Chain
We believe demand for AirPods has been strong, and note that the shipping time of the product on Apple’s official shopping website has shortened to 1-3 days, mainly thanks to an improved assembly process and increased capacity from Luxshare as the new assembler. This improvement in the supply chain has been crucial in meeting the high demand for the product. The shorter shipping times indicate that Apple has successfully addressed some of the initial production bottlenecks that plagued the AirPods’ launch.
The AirPods have not only been popular among consumers but have also received positive reviews from tech critics. Their seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem, ease of use, and impressive battery life have made them a favorite among iPhone users. Additionally, the introduction of new features such as hands-free “Hey Siri” functionality and improved wireless connectivity has further enhanced their appeal.
Market Trends and Future Prospects
We expect AirPods to remain one of the most popular Apple accessories in 2018, with shipments likely to rise 100% YoY to 26-28 million units next year. This growth is not just a testament to the product’s popularity but also reflects broader market trends. The wireless earbud market has been expanding rapidly, driven by the increasing number of smartphone manufacturers removing the traditional headphone jack and the growing consumer preference for wireless audio solutions.
Apple’s competitors have also been trying to capture a share of this lucrative market. Companies like Samsung, Google, and Bose have introduced their own wireless earbuds, but none have managed to achieve the same level of success as the AirPods. Apple’s strong brand loyalty, coupled with the superior user experience offered by the AirPods, has given them a significant edge over their rivals.
The Apple AirPods retail for $159. They launched in December of last year and have been a popular device since they went on sale. The price point, while higher than some competitors, has not deterred consumers, who are willing to pay a premium for the quality and convenience that the AirPods offer.
Looking ahead, Apple is likely to continue innovating in this space. Rumors suggest that future iterations of the AirPods could include features such as noise cancellation, health monitoring capabilities, and even better integration with other Apple devices. These advancements could further solidify the AirPods’ position as the leading product in the wireless earbud market.
The Apple AirPods have been a resounding success for the company, and all signs point to continued growth in the coming years. With strong demand, an improved supply chain, and the potential for exciting new features, the future looks bright for Apple’s wireless earbuds.
Source MacRumors
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