Blackpink’s Jennie isn’t the only Gen Z fan of wired earphones
Apple’s AirPods launch in 2016 prompted Samsung and LG to create wireless earbuds of their own ... but now wired earphones are making a comeback
Once dismissed as outdated after the rise of wireless earbuds, wired earphones are making a comeback as a hip fashion accessory, blending practicality with retro flair.
Industry officials said on Monday that the popularity of wired earphones began to wane in 2016 when Apple launched its AirPods.
The move triggered a surge in wireless earbud competition from Samsung, LG and others, while smartphone makers’ removal of the 3.5-millimetre jack was seen as a symbolic end to wired earphones.
The trend, however, is shifting. Blackpink’s Jennie drew attention when she posted a photo of herself wearing wired earphones on social media last Wednesday, after a concert in Barcelona, opting for a vintage aesthetic over Bluetooth convenience.
She had previously been spotted at Incheon International Airport with wired earphones as well.
Fellow group member Rosé also revealed her preference during an interview with Vogue, pulling a pair of wired earphones from her bag and saying she favoured the “classic wired style”.