Apple launches late AirPods into immediate ship slip

Apple today began selling the delayed AirPods, but the wireless headphones almost immediately skated to a 2017 ship date.

The Cupertino, Calif. company warned customers that the product would be available in "limited quantities at launch."

Indeed.

The $159 headphones -- which resemble enlarged ear buds sans wires -- debuted on Apple's online store earlier Tuesday. Within minutes, the estimated ship date shifted from Dec. 21 to mid-January 2017.

Apple introduced the AirPods in September, alongside the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus. At the time, executives said that the headphones would be available in October. Late in October, however, Apple confirmed that the AirPods were delayed, saying, "We need a little more time before AirPods are ready for our customers."

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