Second-Generation AirPods Pro Launch Expands Apple Market Share in the Global TWS Market

As overall sales of headphones have decreased 4% in the third quarter of 2022, according to market research firm Canalys, the true wireless stereo (TWS) earbuds category continues to lead in the personal audio space. Among the winners in this extremely competitive, low margin environment, Apple stands out with the second-generation AirPods Pro generating an important boost in sales in that quarter - and most likely all through the holidays.

Famous audio companies and audio brands should explore more simple marketing tools such as merchandising and collectors items (not NFTs!), to better connect with their users. McIntosh is a great example of emotional connection to the brand, and the NY-based company just announced the brand's collaboration with the Grateful Dead on a new, special-edition collection celebrating the iconic "Wall of Sound". The collection includes a T-shirt and Sweatshirt, featuring the famous Richard Pechner "Wall of Sound" photo.

Danish headphone brand AIAIAI is an interesting example of differentiation based on design, product and user focus. Cleverly combining a simple but effective design that serves multiple needs, AIAIAI offers a range of headphones for home studio, DJs, and contemporary lifestyle. Understanding its user-base, the brand gained a cult-following that is the envy of many larger audio brands. And the latest concept from AIAIAI is now a totally customizable headphone.

Branded Sound Signatures? Unique Brand Simulation Presets? All Part of Automotive OEM Engineering and Business. In this article, originally published in The Audio Voice newsletter, Roger Shively (Co-founder, JJR Acoustics) writes about automotive opportunities for branded audio and how, as audio system and vehicle acoustic simulation is on the rise, modeling and tuning of sound signatures also becomes a possibility.

With the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic effects, in the same way as many retailers' business and entire distribution models have been disrupted, consumer behavior changes are also affecting the manufacturers' calendars in general. The industry is no longer depending on massive industry events that in the past have determined important product launch and promotion cycles.

A recent IHS Markit survey finds that premium audio from recognized brands remains an important consideration when acquiring a new vehicle. Branded audio system volumes in new vehicles are expected to grow from just under 12.4 million units globally in 2018 to 14.7 million units in 2023, according to new vehicle production forecasts for these systems from the business information provider research.

Futuresource has announced the release of its latest report exploring multi regional trends in the audio shopper’s journey whilst considering purchasing Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Speakers and Headphones across China, France, Germany, UK and the USA. The report finds significant room for growth in the market.