Can AirPods Become Apple's Next Megaseller?

When Apple introduced the AirPods in September 2016, the wireless earpods quickly became the subject of ridicule on the internet. Some people would stick their toothbrushes up their ears to make fun of the way they supposedly look, others would complain about their price or the fact that they will be easily lost. And yet: AirPods became a resounding success.

While Apple doesn’t break down AirPod sales or revenue in its earnings reports, lumping them in with “Other Products” instead, anecdotal evidence, customer reviews as well as several statements from senior Apple executives point towards the AirPods being a hit with consumers.

With the release of an improved, second generation of AirPods reportedly close, the wireless earpods could become an even bigger growth factor to Apple. According to Ming-Chi Kuo, one of the most accurate and renowned Apple analysts, the company could sell 50 to 55 million pairs of AirPods this year and double that figure by 2021. Assuming that the price remains unchanged at $159, that would equal to more than $15 billion in annual sales.