Apple’s original AirPods are now synonymous with a clean, white look. However, newly surfaced details show that this design choice was not always guaranteed. Recent leaks suggest Apple once tested bright pink and yellow AirPods charging cases before abandoning them ahead of the 2016 launch.
The revelation adds another layer to Apple’s design history. It also highlights how close the company came to offering AirPods in bolder colors.
What the Leak Reveals
According to information shared by leaker Kosutami, Apple experimented with several colorful charging cases during early development. Among them were vivid pink and yellow versions that never reached consumers. Images shared online show prototype cases that differ sharply from the final white design.
Previously, reports had suggested Apple explored muted pink tones. However, this new leak points to much brighter shades. Notably, the yellow case had not appeared in earlier reports. This makes it a new and surprising addition to Apple’s design trials.
Why Apple Dropped the Colors
So why did Apple walk away from these designs? Reports indicate the decision came late in development. The company likely made the call during design or product validation testing.
At the time, Apple aimed to align AirPods with the iPhone 7 lineup. That phone arrived in silver, gold, rose gold, and black. Although Apple later added a PRODUCT(RED) model, several rumored colors never launched. As a result, Apple also shelved the matching AirPods colors.
Consistency played a key role. White earbuds offered instant recognition and avoided tying AirPods to one phone color cycle. Over time, that choice proved effective.
A Design Choice That Paid Off
Looking back, Apple’s decision helped define the AirPods brand. The white finish became iconic and instantly recognizable in public spaces. Meanwhile, third-party companies later filled the gap by offering custom-colored AirPods for niche buyers.
Even so, these newly revealed prototypes offer a glimpse into Apple’s creative process. They show that bold ideas often come close to launch before careful refinement takes over.
What This Means Today
Although Apple now offers colorful AirPods Max and accented charging cases, the earbuds themselves remain mostly white. Still, the leaked prototypes remind fans that Apple once considered a much more playful direction.
