These new EarPods have been in the market since September 12, 2012. From my initial experience with these, the new Apple EarPods are a significant improvement over its predecessor.
I bought a pair in December 2013, online, from Future Shop for $36 (Inclusive of taxes).
Not only do they fit better, I personally felt they had a better sound quality in comparison to the earlier design.
Highlights: (from the Apple website)
Deeper, richer bass tones
Greater protection from sweat and water
Control music and video playback
Answer and end calls
From my personal usage of these EarPods and taking into account the price and overall sound quality, I would definitely recommend these.
I bought a pair in December 2013, online, from Future Shop for $36 (Inclusive of taxes).
Not only do they fit better, I personally felt they had a better sound quality in comparison to the earlier design.
Highlights: (from the Apple website)
Deeper, richer bass tones
Greater protection from sweat and water
Control music and video playback
Answer and end calls
They come in this compact case
The EarPod design projects sound forward
They connect via a 3.5mm audio jack
The mic/volume bar
From my personal usage of these EarPods and taking into account the price and overall sound quality, I would definitely recommend these.