Why the world is unplugging from Bluetooth

In a surprising cultural U-turn, humble wired headphone is staging a massive comeback in 2026

For the better part of a decade, the dangling white wire was a sign of technological obsolescence. The release of the iPhone 7, which famously ditched the headphone jack, signalled a wireless revolution where Bluetooth earbuds became the ultimate status symbol.

But in a surprising cultural U-turn, the humble wired headphone is staging a massive comeback in 2026, reclaiming its spot on the ears of A-list celebrities, NBA stars, and Gen Z influencers alike.

What started as a quiet aesthetic choice has exploded into a genuine movement. From the subways of New York to the tunnel walks of the NBA, the wire is no longer a nuisance—it is an accessory.

The trend has been catalogued extensively by Shelby Hull, the creator of the popular Instagram account 'Wired It Girl'. Since 2021, Hull has documented famous faces like Bella Hadid, Lily-Rose Depp, and Zendaya sporting tangled cords, transforming what was once considered "outdated" into a deliberate style statement.

The movement hit a high note recently when the December cover of New York Magazine featured celebrities sharing wired earbuds, solidifying the look as a symbol of effortless cool.

However, the resurgence is about more than just Y2K nostalgia or mimicking the "off-duty model" look. For many, the return to the cord is driven by pragmatic frustration with modern tech.

Wireless earbuds, while convenient, come with a unique set of headaches: pairing glitches, the constant need for charging, and the high risk of losing a tiny, expensive bud. Wired headphones offer a "plug and play" reliability that Bluetooth cannot match. As one user noted, "You just plug it in and it works."

Economics also play a significant role. With premium wireless models like Apple's AirPods Max reaching prices upwards of $600, the affordability of wired options—often costing as little as $25—is appealing to cost-conscious consumers.

Beyond the practical, there is a psychological element to the trend. Industry observers describe it as a "quiet protest" against the pressure to constantly upgrade to the latest tech. In an era of overwhelming digital noise, the wire represents a grounding, tangible connection—a way to slow down.

Whether for the retro aesthetic, the unbeatable price point, or simply the luxury of never having to charge your headphones again, the verdict is clear: the wire is cool again.