Accessory · 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.
AirPods (1st generation): key facts
When was the AirPods (1st generation) released?
The AirPods (1st generation) was released in 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 are the AirPods (1st generation)’s specs?
The AirPods (1st generation) used a Apple W1, with None of memory. It ran AirPods firmware (W1).
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) | None |
| Storage | — |
| Display | None |
| GPU | None |
| 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).
Cross-architecture speed figures are clock-only and approximate; inflation figures use US CPI.
Did you know?
They arrived the same year Apple removed the headphone jack from the iPhone — not a coincidence.
Related Accessory models
Open the AirPods (1st generation) in the interactive archive →
Last updated: 2026-06-25