Apple launched AirPods in 2016, and the earbuds quickly became one of the most recognisable pieces of everyday tech, with their short connection chime becoming familiar to millions of iPhone and Mac users. As unboxing, tech review and setup videos grew on YouTube and TikTok, creators began reusing the tone as shorthand for something working instantly and seamlessly. It remains popular because it is short, clean and instantly understood, even without any on-screen explanation.