It was reported recently that Apple Stores might soon allow customers to test in-ear headphones before they purchase them. Apple will have to come up with a solution which ensures that customers don’t feel uncomfortable when testing in-ear headphones, because obviously the process has a tendency of getting unsanitary, so customers need to be shielded from that. A picture has been leaked online which shows the purported kit Apple will use to allow customers to test in-ear headphones.
The picture of this kit was first published online by Japanese publication Macotakara. It shows a try that features several brands including but not limited to Beats and Bose headphones. Interestingly Apple’s own EarPods are missing from this kit.
Apparently tips of different sizes will be available in the kit. Customers will then be able to try these headphones which will also be properly sanitized between uses. This will ensure that customers don’t feel uncomfortable when trying out in-ear headphones.
Given that Beats products are front and center here it appears that Apple might not want to sell EarPods to customers when it has the chance to move the pricier Beats offers. Apple owns Beats so its not like the company will be sending business to a competitor.
Apple has not confirmed as yet when it will allow customers to test in-ear headphones at its retail stores. Perhaps this change might come into effect following Apple’s changes to the retail experience to accommodate the Apple Watch, which comes out April 24th.
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