It’s hard to believe it’s been nearly nine years since Apple dropped the original AirPods—iconic, all-white, and instantly recognizable. But as it turns out, that clean white look wasn’t the only option Apple explored.
Recent prototype leaks suggest that during early development, Apple tested bright pink and yellow AirPods colours. The idea, apparently, was to have the earbuds match the then-new iPhone 7 lineup, which itself went through multiple colour experiments behind the scenes. However, at the end, Apple decided to go the minimalistic route with the all-white—and unfortunately, these bright AirPods colours never saw the light of the day.
I guess Apple wanted an iconic statement piece, instead of offering variation. Although, considering how pretty these supposed prototypes look, I don’t think users would have minded a more colourful palette. Makes you wonder what other bold ideas are still hiding in Apple’s design labs that didn’t make the cut.
