The retail version of the EarPods comes in typically minimalist, white packaging that shows off the product in an included white-and-clear-plastic case. The case also acts as a spool for the EarPods' cord, which is slightly thinner than that of the previous Apple earbuds. The EarPods' inline remote/microphone module, located on the right-hand earpiece cable, is slightly larger than that of the previous earbuds, with additional strain relief, bigger buttons that are easier to press, and no visible microphone hole. The three sections of the remote are easy to distinguish, and the buttons have firm, decisive action--this is probably the best in-line remote I've used.
The microphone, too, is improved compared to the one on previous Apple earbuds. In my testing, the EarPods' microphone sounded smoother and more natural without sacrificing clarity; the mic on Apple's older earbuds sounded a little harsh in comparison. The EarPods' microphone is even competitive with the iPhone 4's excellent internal microphone, making it one of the top inline microphones I've tested.
The left side of the split cable has a cable slider, which, just like that of the previous Apple earbud headset and of the Apple In-Ear Headphones, can attach to the right-hand cable to adjust fit or to keep the split cord together during storage. The connections between the cables and the earpieces have gained enhanced strain relief.
Ear pods
Speaking of the earpieces, that's where most of the new action is. The EarPods' earpieces have an oblong, roughly teardrop-shaped silhouette rather than the circular profile of the previous earbuds. This shape is the result of Apple's new design process for the EarPods, which was based on taking ear impressions of a large number of individuals and creating an earpiece that would best fit a wide range of ears. The result looks a little alien (perhaps appropriate, given the pop-culture association between "pod" and "alien") and feature two grilles: one on the front face and another over the opening that directs sound into the listener's ear. The back side of the earpiece (away from your ear canal), and, cleverly, the stem that leads to the cable both feature bass ports that help tune bass and midrange response.