Transparent (or translucent) technology is nothing new. The see-through design of the new Beats Studio Buds+ is reminiscent of the Bondi Blue iMac G3. So why don't AirPods offer the same kind of fun?

With the Studio Buds+, the color and charisma of the Beats by Dre product contrasts with the boring AirPods earphones. Indeed, the white stemmed AirPods Pro 2, which I carry everywhere I go, have a simple, sophisticated appeal. I don't have to worry about them not matching my attire. But after unboxing the transparent Beats earphones, my AirPods seem a bit . . seem boring.

Every time a new AirPods is rumored to be released, there seems to be more interest in colored AirPods. However, even with the release of five AirPods earbud models, the design language has evolved little: all AirPods except the $549 AirPods Max look like the same product, just with a different font.

This is definitely one way to establish an unshakable brand identity (and subsequently give way to hundreds of imitations and counterfeits). There is also the possibility of accidentally swapping AirPods with a family member or co-worker. If I didn't have a pink beaded strap on my AirPods Pro 2, I can't tell you how many times I would have mistaken them for someone else's pair.

With the transparent Studio Buds+, I don't have to worry about that. Instead of blending in, the exposed design is bold and exciting. These earbuds aren't afraid to let you peek inside to see what's going on. They are just the right amount of vulnerability to reveal that the Beats brand is not taking itself too seriously.

Whereas the Beats Fit Pro incorporates both a Kim Kardashian collaboration and a great neon refresh, the see-through Studio Buds+ have a decidedly nostalgic flair. We are not saying that the next AirPods need to deviate from modern design, but they should consider adopting more options so that customers can find the style that best fits their personality.

The iPhone, iPad, and Mac all come in different colors. When new versions of these products are released, I look forward to discussing color choices with people online and going to Apple stores to see all the products on display in person.

The AirPods lack that experience. There is only one model of each earphone, and customization is left to the AirPods case. Moreover, the buds have the same stark white finish.

Multiple color options for the AirPods 4, or whatever the next generation AirPods are called, would be desirable. If the color matches the new iPhone 15, even better.