Mashable’s Gift of the Day series highlights cool, interesting and fun products for that special someone on your holiday list.  Need to cross a couple names off your holiday shopping list? Apple’s EarPods are some of the most popular headphones on the planet. A recent upgrade to Apple’s earbuds improved their comfort and sound quality; and most importantly, they retail for under $30.  Apple‘s first earbuds debuted as a complimentary accessory, packaged with the first iPod in 2001. Since then, Apple has sold more than 350 million iPods and 250 million iPhones, which also come with a set of earbuds. It’s safe to say that Apple’s ubiquitous plain white headphones are probably the most iconic of all time.  SEE ALSO: Listen Up: Here’s a Brief History of Headphones  At the iPhone 5 release in September, Apple announced an upgrade to the earbuds, calling the new design “EarPods.” The newer model features an oblong design, rather than circular, so they fit more comfortably in your ears. The placement of speakers on the device is engineered to “minimize sound loss and maximize sound output,” according to the description on the Apple Store website.  The EarPods also feature a remote controller and a microphone attached to the cord. This not only gives you the ability to adjust volume without taking the device out of your pocket, but you can also answer and terminate phone calls on your iPhone.  Basically, the new earbuds are smarter, louder, bassier and won’t fall out of your ears when you’re jogging. Not to mention, they’re as compact and durable as the original earbuds, which makes them very portable. Those friends and family members who are still using the old earbuds will appreciate the upgrade.  Image courtesy of Flickr, LJR.Mike  8. Woody Allen in Sleeper  What They Don't Look Like: The Original EarPods on Doctor Who
Apple's new "EarPods" would make a terrific holiday gift. The redesigned earbuds are smart, durable and relatively inexpensive.