# The AirPods Effect: From Mockery to Love How did Apple's AirPods become a cultural icon? - **Source:** [UX Collective - Medium](https://brifing.si/source/5c6bdc88-e150-4203-af43-069801e37dd9) - **Published:** 2026-07-17 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/982b3a05-d048-415d-98ec-b7dde189f77a ## Initially Mocked When Apple introduced AirPods in 2016, they were initially mocked. Many criticized the design and predicted they would soon be forgotten. However, these predictions did not come true. ## From Users' Perspective As users started using AirPods, they appreciated features like easy pairing, wireless design, and automatic music pausing. This contributed to the product's popularity. ## Combating Anxiety AirPods are not just for listening to music but also for managing anxiety. Users find comfort in blocking out the world with white noise. ## Celebrity Influence Celebrities like Diana Ross and Kristen Stewart using AirPods helped turn the product into a status symbol. This strengthened the brand's perception. ## Similarity to Apple Watch The Apple Watch faced similar criticisms initially. However, Apple evolved the product into a fitness and health-focused device, achieving success. ## Future Steps Apple plans to add cameras to AirPods. This could enable Siri to understand visual context, creating new use cases. However, privacy concerns remain. ## Apple's Formula Apple turns mocked products into beloved devices by solving real problems. AirPods and Apple Watch are successful examples of this strategy. ## Sources covering this story - https://uxdesign.cc/the-mocked-then-loved-airpods-effect-65ec25feeb3a?source=rss----138adf9c44c---4 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._