Jony Ive explains design process of Apple’s new EarPods

Apple officially unveiled its new redesigned headphones called “EarPods” at the yesterday’s media event. The company explained that the EarPods are three years in the making and posted a video featuring Jony Ive explaining the process of creating the new earbuds.

Apple design chief Jony Ive said his company scanned hundreds of ears searching for commonality between them. In addition to the engineering process described by Ives above, Apple explained on its website that it tested over 100 prototypes to make the EarPods more durable and stable than its previous-generation earphones. The new EarPods are defined by the geometry of a user's ear, but they do not create a seal like other headphones. EarPods feature a directed speaker that points forward into a user's ear canal. Another port in the back aids with mid-level tones and maximizes air flow for sound quality.

Apple engineers asked more than 600 people to test over 100 iterations of the Apple EarPods. Testers ran on treadmills in extreme heat and extreme cold. They performed various cardio workouts. They were even asked to shake their heads side to side, up and down. The result: Apple EarPods provide stronger protection from sweat and water, and they’re remarkably stable in the ear. Which means they stay in, even when you’re on the go.

The new EarPods will be available with the iPhone 5 and its new iPod lineup, and will also be available for purchase separately.