Apple upgrades default audio for mobile devices

A new iFixit teardown has exposed some of the inner workings of Apple's new EarPods. The product notably uses paper cones, a first for any set of Apple headphones. The earbuds Apple previously included with mobile devices relied on plastic cones, in theory hurting sound quality.

Apple is also said to have engineered the EarPods for better durability. This includes more cable wrapping on each end, and the removal of an external microphone grate. The latter is said to have made the earlier earbuds more prone to moisture damage.

While people can already buy EarPods separately from Apple's online store, most people will first get them with the iPhone 5, which ships on Friday, or with the updated versions of the iPod nano and touch, due in October. The main features are said to be clearer sound with better low-end response that has been compared favorably to more expensive third-party earbuds, as well as a more universal fit. While not intended to be a replacement for pro-level earbuds, the Earpods are said to be a significant improvement on the previously-included headphones. [via iFixit]

by MacNN Staff