There’s an alternate universe out there where Apple (still) makes translucent gadgets, and I want to live in it.
Giulio Zompetti, a developer who also happens to collect rare Apple devices, recently got his hands on what are reportedly partially-transparent Apple prototypes. Behold, thetranslucent AirPods:
#AirPods, translucent prototype earbudspic.twitter.com/zE4dt47H0J
— Giulio Zompetti (@1nsane_dev)November 30, 2021
Oooh, ahhh.
Calling all Scaleup founders! Join the Soonicorn Summit on November 28 in Amsterdam.
Meet with the leaders of Picnic, Miro, Carbon Equity and more during this exclusive event dedicated to Scaleup Founders!
Of course, if you want transparent headphones that are actually meant to be transparent,Nothinghas you covered. But it’s nice to imagine a universe where this is an option Apple provides too.
Heck, even Apple’s transparent 29W USB-C brick looks amazing:
29W Apple Charger prototype.pic.twitter.com/h2ZoHCMw0F
— Giulio Zompetti (@1nsane_dev)November 23, 2021
Granted, the interior looks a little sloppier than Apple would probably like on a finished transparent product, but it still looks awesome. Nothing has previously talked about the difficulties of designing transparent gadgets that actually look good, but I’m sure Apple could manage it if, you know, it tried.
For the youngins reading this, it’s not like this translucent thing would even be novel for Apple; let’s not forget the iconic original iMac (now known as the iMac G3), which came in semi-transparent finishes in all the colors of the rainbow.
I can’t help but think Apple is missing out on some serious nerd fan service by not running with more transparent designs.
It’s not even like every product needs to be transparent; Apple could offer a limited edition transparent model and people would eat it up. I bet it would especially appeal to the nerds happy about the ports in thenew MacBook Pro. And considering Apple’swonderful new stance on repairability. Granted, it’s yet to be seen how much Apple delivers on its promise, but how cool would it be if you could actually see inside a product before opening it up?
In the meantime, I’m still hoping this aesthetic will make a big return someday. They say fashion is cyclical, and if we get lucky, maybe that applies to tech too.
ViaThe Verge
Story byNapier Lopez
Napier Lopez is a writer based in New York City. He’s interested in all things tech, science, and photography related, and likes to yo-yo in(show all)Napier Lopez is a writer based in New York City. He’s interested in all things tech, science, and photography related, and likes to yo-yo in his free time. Follow himon Twitter.
Get the TNW newsletter
Get the most important tech news in your inbox each week.
