Living in a bubble: The headphone revolution

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Headphones and earbuds have experienced a phenomenal rise in popularity worldwide, transforming how people consume audio content and impacting various aspects of daily life. Per Sennström, one of the creators of Swedish company Earin, shares insights into how wireless earbuds first came about and how the revolution in listening took hold so quickly. From music, radio and podcasts to virtual meetings and workouts, headphones cater to a multitude of activities. The allure of high-quality sound, sleek designs, and wireless connectivity has led to their status as fashion accessories, often seen as a statement of personal style. But increasing headphone use comes with its downsides. Social interactions and personal relationships are affected, as people often wear headphones throughout the day, creating a barrier to communication. Meanwhile, there are safety concerns - from accidents in the street and transport to worries over the impact on our hearing and our capacity to experience boredom, which is essential for creativity and mental well-being. Producer: Ashley Byrne A Made in Manchester production for BBC World Service (Photo: Henrique sits on a chair on Copacabana Beach, in Rio de Janeiro, wearing headphones. Credit: Constance Mallerat/Made in Manchester)