Does Apple Sell Airpods 1

Apple no longer sells AirPods 1 (first generation) through its official stores. The original AirPods were discontinued in March 2019 when AirPods 2 launched. However, you can still find them through third-party retailers like Amazon, eBay, and refurbished sellers. If you’re shopping for AirPods today, Apple offers AirPods 2, 3, 4, and Pro models instead.

Imagine walking into an Apple Store and asking for the very first AirPods ever made. What would the employee say? You’d probably hear something like, “Those are from our museum collection!” Okay, that’s a joke. But the real answer might surprise you. Apple doesn’t sell AirPods 1 anymore, and there’s a good reason for that.

The first-generation AirPods launched back in December 2016. They were a huge deal. Honestly, they changed how we listen to music, take calls, and interact with our phones. Before AirPods, most wireless earbuds looked like someone wrapped a Bluetooth headset around your ear. But Apple made them cool. They made them something everyone wanted.

Here’s the thing though. Times change. Tech gets better. And Apple loves to keep things fresh. So if you’re wondering whether you can still buy AirPods 1 today, you’re in the right place. Let me walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover why Apple stopped selling them, where you can still find them, and whether they’re even worth buying in today’s world.

Key Takeaways

• AirPods 1 Were Discontinued in 2019: Apple officially stopped selling first-generation AirPods in March 2019 when they launched AirPods 2.
• You Can Still Buy Them Elsewhere: Third-party retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart may have leftover stock or refurbished units available.
• They’re Outdated by Today’s Tech: AirPods 1 lack features like “Hey Siri,” water resistance, and spatial audio found in newer models.
• Software Support Is Limited: AirPods 1 received their last firmware update in 2021 and may not work with future iOS updates.
• Better Alternatives Exist: AirPods 2, AirPods 3, and AirPods Pro offer significant upgrades at similar prices today.
• Used Market Prices Are Low: Expect to pay $30-$50 for used AirPods 1, which is much cheaper than newer options.
• Not Great for Modern iPhones: AirPods 1 use the older W1 chip, which has shorter range and slower connectivity than H1 chips.

The Short Answer: Does Apple Sell AirPods 1?

Let’s cut right to the chase. No, Apple does not currently sell first-generation AirPods through any of its official retail channels. This includes the Apple.com website, Apple Store app, and physical Apple Store locations. If you try to search for “AirPods 1” on Apple’s website, you’ll see newer models like AirPods 4, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods Max.

The original AirPods were officially discontinued on March 20, 2019. That’s the same day Apple launched the second-generation AirPods. It was a classic Apple move. Why keep selling the old version when the new one is better in almost every way?

What Happened to AirPods 1?

Apple doesn’t usually make big announcements when they discontinue products. They just quietly remove them from the store. That’s exactly what happened with AirPods 1. One day they were there. The next day, they were gone. No farewell tour. No retirement speech. Just gone.

The decision made business sense, too. By discontinuing the older model, Apple could:

• Focus marketing efforts on newer products
• Push customers toward upgraded versions
• Streamline their product lineup
• Reduce inventory complexity in stores

Think of it like a car dealership. Once the 2025 models arrive, you usually can’t buy the 2023 brand new anymore. The same logic applies here, except Apple’s “model years” change faster.

Where Did AirPods 1 Go?

Just because Apple stopped selling AirPods 1 doesn’t mean they vanished from the earth. They’re floating around out there. You just have to know where to look. Think of them like vintage items. Still functional, just no longer in production.

Third-Party Retailers

Several major retailers might still have AirPods 1 in stock. These are typically leftover inventory from before the discontinuation. Here’s where to check:

• Amazon: Sometimes has new or used AirPods 1 from third-party sellers
• Best Buy: May have clearance stock in physical stores
• Walmart: Occasionally lists them online at discounted prices
• Target: Worth checking their electronics clearance section
• eBay: A goldmine for discontinued Apple products

Pro tip: Be very careful when buying from third-party sellers. Counterfeit AirPods are a real problem. We’ll talk more about that later.

Refurbished and Used Markets

If you really want AirPods 1, the refurbished market is your best bet. Companies like Back Market, Gazelle, and Swappa specialize in selling certified pre-owned electronics. These devices have been tested and cleaned. They often come with warranties, too.

You can also check:

• Facebook Marketplace
• Craigslist
• OfferUp
• Local thrift stores (rare but possible)
• Friends and family (someone’s drawer is full of them)

Used AirPods 1 typically sell for between $30 and $50, depending on condition and whether you have the charging case.

Why Did Apple Discontinue AirPods 1?

There are several reasons Apple decided to retire the original AirPods. Some are technical. Some are strategic. All of them made sense from a business perspective.

Technology Improvements

The biggest reason is simple: AirPods 2 were significantly better. Here’s a quick comparison to show you what I mean.

Imagine driving a 2016 car in 2024. It still works. It still gets you from point A to point B. But it’s missing features you now expect, like backup cameras, lane assist, and Bluetooth connectivity. That’s exactly how AirPods 1 compare to newer models.

AirPods 2 introduced the H1 chip, which replaced the older W1 chip. This new chip meant:

• 50% faster connection speed when switching between devices
• “Hey Siri” hands-free voice commands
• 30% lower latency during gaming
• Longer talk time per charge

Product Line Strategy

Apple loves a clean, simple product lineup. Having too many similar products confuses customers. It also makes marketing harder. When AirPods 1 and AirPods 2 existed at the same time, people didn’t know which one to buy.

By discontinuing the older model, Apple made the choice clearer. You either buy AirPods 2 or you look at a completely different product, like AirPods Pro.

Software Compatibility Concerns

Here’s something most people don’t think about: older AirPods need firmware updates to work properly with new iOS versions. The W1 chip in AirPods 1 is older and less capable than newer chips.

Did You Know? AirPods 1 received their last firmware update in 2021. That’s three years ago. While they still work with current iPhones, future iOS updates might not support them fully.

Are AirPods 1 Still Worth Buying?

This is where things get interesting. Just because something is old doesn’t mean it’s worthless. Let me break down when AirPods 1 make sense and when they don’t.

When AirPods 1 Might Be Worth It

There are some situations where buying AirPods 1 actually makes sense. Here are a few:

You’re on a super tight budget. If $30 is your max budget, AirPods 1 might be your only option for “real” AirPods. They still work. They still pair with iPhones. They still sound decent.

You need a backup pair. If you have a main pair of expensive earbuds, AirPods 1 make great backups. Toss them in your gym bag. Keep them in your car. No worries if they get lost or beat up.

You’re buying for a kid. Kids lose things. They break things. They don’t always appreciate expensive tech. AirPods 1 are perfect for younger users who might not take great care of them.

You just want basic functionality. If you only need wireless earbuds for podcasts, audiobooks, and occasional music, you don’t need the latest and greatest. The basics will do.

When You Should Avoid AirPods 1

On the flip side, there are plenty of reasons to skip AirPods 1 in 2024.

You want modern features. AirPods 1 don’t have:

• Active Noise Cancellation
• Transparency Mode
• Spatial Audio
• Water or sweat resistance
• “Hey Siri” support
• Wireless charging (without buying a special case separately)

That’s a lot of features to miss out on. If you’ve used newer AirPods, going back feels like going back to a flip phone. It’s painful.

You have a newer iPhone. While AirPods 1 work with newer iPhones, you won’t get all the features. The seamless switching between devices is slower. The connection drops more often. It’s just not as smooth.

You’re worried about long-term support. Since AirPods 1 haven’t received firmware updates since 2021, they’re essentially frozen in time. Future iOS updates could potentially break compatibility or limit functionality.

AirPods 1 vs. AirPods 2: What’s the Difference?

Since AirPods 2 replaced AirPods 1, let’s compare them directly. This will help you understand what you’re missing if you buy the older model.

Chip and Performance

The W1 chip in AirPods 1 vs. the H1 chip in AirPods 2. Think of this like comparing a 2016 phone processor to a 2019 one. Same basic function. Much better performance.

The H1 chip means:

• Faster pairing with your iPhone
• More stable Bluetooth connection
• Better battery efficiency
• Lower audio latency
• “Hey Siri” support

Battery Life

Battery life is pretty similar between the two. Both give you about 5 hours of listening time per charge. The case provides multiple additional charges. However, AirPods 2 offer slightly longer talk time (3 hours vs. 2 hours).

The real battery question, though, is about long-term degradation. AirPods 1 batteries are now 7-8 years old. If you’re buying used, the battery life might be significantly worse than advertised.

Sound Quality

Here’s the truth: the sound quality between AirPods 1 and AirPods 2 is nearly identical. Apple didn’t change the audio drivers much. Both deliver clear vocals and decent bass for casual listening.

If you’re an audiophile, neither model will impress you. Both are tuned for mainstream appeal, not critical listening.

How to Spot Fake AirPods 1

Here’s an unfortunate reality: the market is flooded with fake AirPods. Counterfeiters love popular products. AirPods are at the top of their list.

If you’re buying AirPods 1 from an unofficial source, you need to know how to spot fakes. Otherwise, you might waste money on junk.

Red Flags to Watch For

Price too good to be true. If someone is selling “brand new” AirPods 1 for $20, they’re probably fake. Genuine used AirPods 1 rarely sell for less than $30.

Packaging looks off. Real Apple packaging is premium. The box should feel sturdy. The printing should be sharp. The plastic wrap should be tight. Fakes often have blurry text, wrong fonts, or cheap-feeling boxes.

Serial number doesn’t check out. Every real AirPods case has a serial number inside the lid. You can verify it on Apple’s website at checkcoverage.apple.com. If the serial doesn’t exist or shows a different product, it’s fake.

Pairing process feels weird. Real AirPods show the classic Apple pairing animation on your iPhone. Fakes often pair like regular Bluetooth devices, with no special animation.

Where to Buy Safely

To avoid fakes, stick to these trusted sources:

• Apple’s certified refurbished store
• Back Market (with warranty)
• Amazon (sold by Amazon directly, not third parties)
• Best Buy (in-store purchases)
• Gazelle (certified used)

Remember: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your gut.

What to Buy Instead of AirPods 1

Since AirPods 1 aren’t readily available from Apple, let me give you some better alternatives. These options offer more features, better support, and often similar prices.

AirPods 2

The most obvious upgrade. AirPods 2 are still available from Apple (though they’re being phased out for AirPods 4). You can find them for around $100-$130. That’s a small price to pay for significantly better technology.

AirPods 4

Apple’s newest entry-level AirPods. They offer:

• H2 chip
• Personalized Spatial Audio
• USB-C charging case
• Better sound quality
• Longer battery life

They’re priced at $129, which is competitive with what you’d pay for used AirPods 1 anyway.

AirPods Pro 2

If your budget allows, AirPods Pro 2 are worth the splurge. At around $199-$249, they offer:

• Active Noise Cancellation
• Transparency Mode
• Adaptive Audio
• Conversation Awareness
• Custom-fit silicone tips

They’re the cream of the crop for everyday use.

Third-Party Alternatives

Don’t sleep on brands like:

• Sony: WF-C500 offers great sound for under $100
• Samsung: Galaxy Buds FE work great with iPhones
• JBL: Tune Buds deliver solid bass on a budget
• Soundcore: Liberty 4 by Anker punch above their price

These alternatives often match or exceed AirPods features at lower prices.

The Future of AirPods

AirPods have come a long way since 2016. Let’s take a quick peek at where they’re headed. This will help you understand why AirPods 1 feel so outdated.

Health Features Coming

Apple is working on AirPods that can monitor your health. Think heart rate tracking, body temperature, and hearing tests built right into the earbuds. This is huge. AirPods might become health devices, not just audio devices.

Did You Know? Apple has filed patents for AirPods that can detect your posture, monitor your breathing, and even measure your blood oxygen levels. The future is wild.

Better Integration with Vision Pro

With the Apple Vision Pro headset, spatial audio becomes critical. Future AirPods will likely offer enhanced spatial audio features. They’ll be essential accessories for AR and VR experiences.

Improved AI Features

Apple Intelligence is coming. Future AirPods will likely integrate more deeply with AI features. Imagine AirPods that translate languages in real-time or provide AI-powered audio descriptions of your surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions About AirPods 1

Let me answer some of the most common questions people ask about AirPods 1. These come up again and again.

Can I still use AirPods 1 in 2024?

Yes, AirPods 1 still work with current iPhones. They pair via Bluetooth. They play audio. They handle phone calls. However, you won’t get newer features like spatial audio, automatic switching improvements, or the latest Siri capabilities.

Will AirPods 1 work with iPhone 15?

Yes, AirPods 1 work with iPhone 15. They use standard Bluetooth, so they’ll pair with any modern iPhone. The experience just won’t be as smooth as newer AirPods.

Why did Apple stop making AirPods 1?

Apple stopped selling AirPods 1 because AirPods 2 offered significant improvements at a similar price point. The older W1 chip couldn’t support features Apple wanted to include going forward.

How long do AirPods 1 batteries last?

New AirPods 1 offered about 5 hours of listening time per charge. However, batteries degrade over time. Used AirPods 1 purchased today might only last 1-3 hours per charge, depending on their condition.

Are AirPods 1 waterproof?

No, AirPods 1 have no official water or sweat resistance rating. Keep them away from water. Using them for workouts isn’t recommended. Sweat can damage the internal components.

What’s the difference between AirPods 1 and AirPods Pro?

The biggest differences are active noise cancellation, transparency mode, and silicone ear tips. AirPods Pro offer a more customizable fit and better isolation. They’re significantly more expensive but offer premium features.

Final Thoughts on AirPods 1

So, does Apple sell AirPods 1? The answer is no, not officially. But that doesn’t mean they’re impossible to find. They’re out there. You just need to know where to look and what to watch out for.

Here’s my honest take: unless you’re buying for very specific reasons, skip AirPods 1. Save up a little more. Get AirPods 2 or AirPods 4. The difference in quality and features is worth the extra money.

Technology moves fast. AirPods 1 were revolutionary in 2016. Today, they feel dated. That’s not a criticism. That’s just how tech works. The iPhone 6 was amazing. Now it feels ancient. Same concept.

If you’re set on AirPods 1, buy from trusted sources. Verify serial numbers. Test them immediately. And keep your expectations realistic. They’re old tech doing old tech things.

Whatever you decide, I hope this guide helped clear things up. AirPods are great earbuds. Just make sure you’re buying the right ones for your needs and budget. Happy listening!