Apple is considering adding a touch screen to the case for AirPods, through which users could control music playback or switch music sources between all available devices. This follows from the patent, which was filed in September 2022, but it “leaked” to the public only these days.
And while existing portable cases for completely wireless headphones are purely “passive” devices, at most they have a status display – a possible display with an interactive user interface would reduce their dependence on a smartphone and allow convenient control of music playback.
Apple outlined the form of the display in schematic sketches, which are not very eye-catching, but the rendering that was created from them looks much more interesting. In addition, the patent does not only mention music control, other applications should also be available on the display of the AirPods case, such as maps or weather. All other notifications would also be written on the display from the phone.
This is how the case for the future generation of AirPods could look like (Source: 9to5mac)
Apple ended the life cycle of the iPod Touch 7 last May, because the more technologically advanced iPhone had long since taken over its baton. But a case for headphones with a display can be one of the ways to combine current and historical brand products in modern times. Perhaps we are looking at the future form of “AirPods Touch”.
Clear inspiration?
Even if Apple started offering a new generation of AirPods with a built-in display, it wouldn’t be the first to have such a product. Already last year, the JBL Tour Pro 2 headphones, which have a 1.45″ touch screen on their body, appeared on the market. This happened at the end of last August, Apple’s patent application was made later, and it is probably not difficult to guess where the American giant got its inspiration .
The JBL display is primarily intended for headphone settings, e.g. to activate ANC and “listen” to the surroundings, to adjust the volume or provide information about the current time, charge of the case and individual headphones. In addition, incoming notifications directed to the paired phone are displayed on the display. With the case, it is even possible to receive a call on the display, which then goes through the headphones themselves. So Apple doesn’t have to be fundamentally creative… JBL Tour Pro headphones are also on sale in the Czech market and cost 7,000 crowns.
JBL Tour Pro 2 TWS headphones with their own display:
Do you think the headphone case is a waste of time, or would you find a meaningful use for it? Share your opinion in the discussion below the article.
Source: PatentlyApple, 9to5mac
