Apple in-ear headphones with remote and mic: different plug? (pics)

[dbsecnd]

I recently purchased the new Apple in-ear earphones with remote and mic for my ipod touch 2g. I realized that the plug used on these headphones are different from the ones on regular apple headphones.

Here is the box

and here is the regular plug on the left and the new in-ear plug on the right

I remember seeing from online reviews that the plugs on both headphones are identical. Did Apple recently changed the plugs on their headphones?

 

[stridemat]

The white rings are part of the control system for the in-line remote. As far as I know they have always been on the new headphones.

 

[lozanoj83]

yes I noticed the difference when i got mine replaced last weekend.
The previous one has a grippy feel, these have a plastic feel, which I somehow think is better and wont allow the cable to tear more easily.

 

[dbsecnd]

Thanks for the responses. I hope the new design is worth it!

 

[ToucheChic]

I recently purchased the new Apple in-ear earphones with remote and mic for my ipod touch 2g. I realized that the plug used on these headphones are different from the ones on regular apple headphones.

I remember seeing from online reviews that the plugs on both headphones are identical. Did Apple recently changed the plugs on their headphones?

I have read that the "third ring" has to do with the microphone element that you need for VoIP calls. (Hence the "headset with mic" distinction.)