US Customs dept mistakes real OnePlus Buds for 'fake Apple AirPods'

US Customs and Border Protection dept's gaffe is understandable as the OnePlus Buds inside the box look identical to the Apple AirPods.

Just a while ago, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) posted a tweet revealing it has seized a large consignment of fake Apple AirPods at a cargo facility at the John F. Kennedy international airport.

As per the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) suggested on the seized units numbering 2000 costs around $398,000 (approx.Rs 2,91,78,255). The merchandise came from Hong Kong and was headed to Nevada.

US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) department seized original OnePlus Buds as fake Apple AirPods. Credit: CBP website (screen-shot)

“CBP Officers are protecting the American public from various dangers on a daily basis. The interception of these counterfeit earbuds is a direct reflection of the vigilance and commitment to mission success by our CBP Officers daily,” said Troy Miller, Director of CBP’s New York Field Operations.

However, the CBP is yet to realize their blunder as the seized merchandises are genuine OnePlus Buds. The photo shared on their official Twitter handle and media website shows the retail box of the product with clear mention of OnePlus Buds.

OnePlus Buds (left) and Apple AirPods (right). Credit: OnePlus & Apple Websites' screen-grab

The CBP's gaffe is understandable as the OnePlus Buds inside the box look identical to the generic Apple AirPods. This is the case with most of the Truly Wireless Earphones (TWS) launched by Chinese brands in recent months. They look like a cheap imitation of Apple's iconic AirPods. And, the below statement of CBP after the consignment seizure, just puts the OnePlus brand in an awkward position.

"The enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights is a CBP Priority Trade Issue. Priority Trade Issues represent high-risk areas that can cause significant revenue loss, harm the U.S. economy, or threaten the health and safety of the American people. They drive the risk-informed investment of CBP resources as well as enforcement and facilitation efforts, including special enforcement operations, outreach, and regulatory initiatives," CBP said.

So far, neither CBP nor the regional New York department, have rectified the post both on the social media platform and on the official newsroom webpage. But, the OnePlus USA Twitter handle asked the CBP team to return them back.

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