Category: Audio

  • Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5: New AirPods Pro 3 Rivals with Hi-Res Audio

    Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5: New AirPods Pro 3 Rivals with Hi-Res Audio

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei introduced new smartphones, including Mate 80, Mate 80 Pro, Mate 80 Pro Max, and Mate 80 RS Ultimate Design, along with the MatePad Edge 2-in-1.
    2. The FreeBuds Pro 5 earbuds were launched, targeting competition with AirPods Pro 3, priced at approximately $205.
    3. FreeBuds Pro 5 feature impressive audio performance with NearLink technology, streaming audio at speeds of up to 4.6 Mbps.
    4. Each earbud has two drivers and a Kirin A3 chip, offering three times better active noise cancellation (ANC) than previous models.
    5. The earbuds have an IP57 rating for dust and water resistance but only provide a 5-hour battery life with ANC active.


    Earlier today, Huawei introduced a range of new smartphones alongside the MatePad Edge 2-in-1. In addition to launching its newest foldable device, the company also revealed the Mate 80, Mate 80 Pro, Mate 80 Pro Max, and Mate 80 RS Ultimate Design. As hinted in pre-release promotions, Huawei has commenced sales of the FreeBuds Pro 5 earbuds, which are aimed at competing directly with the AirPods Pro 3 (currently priced at $219 on Amazon).

    Impressive Audio Features

    Huawei claims that the FreeBuds Pro 5 provide outstanding audio performance when connected to a Huawei smartphone or the new MatePad Edge 2-in-1. These earbuds utilize NearLink technology, which reportedly streams audio at speeds of up to 4.6 Mbps. If your smartphone does not have NearLink support, the FreeBuds Pro 5 still come with fallback codecs like AAC, SBC, L2HC, and LDAC.

    Advanced Technology and Design

    Additionally, Huawei has integrated two drivers in each earbud, along with a proprietary Kirin A3 chip and microphones that enable up to three times better active noise cancellation (ANC) compared to previous models. The FreeBuds Pro 5 also feature an IP57 rating for dust and water resistance. However, contrary to prior statements, the earbuds are only rated for a 5-hour battery life with ANC active. The retail price for the FreeBuds Pro 5 is CNY 1,449 (approximately $205), and they are available in four color options. At this moment, it’s uncertain if or when Huawei will make the FreeBuds Pro 5 available globally.

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  • Affordable Honor Earbuds S: 42.5 Hours Battery & 49 dB ANC

    Affordable Honor Earbuds S: 42.5 Hours Battery & 49 dB ANC

    Key Takeaways

    1. Honor has launched the Honor 500 series smartphones along with budget-friendly wireless earbuds, Honor Earbuds S, priced at CNY 299 (approximately $42).
    2. The Earbuds S offer impressive battery life, with up to 42.5 hours of total usage with the charging case and 9.5 hours on a single charge.
    3. They feature a 12.4 mm driver system for clear audio, deep lows, and strong bass, along with active noise cancellation (ANC) achieving up to 49 dB of noise reduction.
    4. Additional features include a dual microphone system with AI noise reduction, spatial audio support, quick pairing options, and an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance.
    5. The Earbuds S will be available in three color variants, with an expected global launch during the Honor 500 series event outside of China.


    Honor has just revealed a fresh lineup of smartphones known as the Honor 500 series, and along with these devices, the brand has rolled out a set of budget-friendly wireless earbuds. Named Honor Earbuds S, they are priced at CNY 299, which is roughly $42.

    Impressive Battery Life

    A key feature of these new earbuds is their impressive battery life. Honor claims that the Earbuds S can provide a total of up to 42.5 hours of usage when paired with the charging case, while the earbuds alone can last up to 9.5 hours on a single charge. They also come with a fast charging capability, promising 3 hours of usage after just a quick 10-minute charge (the 4-port Anker 140 W fast charger is currently priced at $59.99 on Amazon).

    Audio Performance and Features

    Regarding sound quality, Honor emphasizes that the Earbuds S are equipped with a 12.4 mm driver system, which is designed to deliver clear audio with deep lows and strong bass. The active noise cancellation (ANC) feature is said to achieve up to 49 dB of noise reduction, ensuring an engaging listening experience.

    On top of that, there’s a dual microphone system that, combined with AI noise reduction, aims to provide a clear calling experience without interruptions. Honor also points out the Earbuds S’s overall design, particularly highlighting their lightweight nature.

    Additional Features and Availability

    Other notable features of the Earbuds S include spatial audio support, quick pairing options, an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance, and availability in three color variants. While Honor has not announced when these reasonably priced Bluetooth earbuds will be available internationally, it is expected that they will make their global debut during the launch event for the Honor 500 series outside of China.

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  • Ollo Audio Launches R1 Closed-Back Studio Headphones for Recording

    Ollo Audio Launches R1 Closed-Back Studio Headphones for Recording

    Key Takeaways

    1. The R1 headphones feature a well-isolated design that reduces sound leakage by up to 10 dB SPL for better recording quality.
    2. They have a U-shaped audio tuning that enhances bass and treble, creating an immersive performance experience for singers.
    3. The earcups are made from American walnut and include 50 mm drivers, capable of reproducing audio frequencies from 5 Hz to 22 kHz with minimal distortion.
    4. The headphones come with a detachable 2.0 meter Y-cable and are designed for user-replaceable components, weighing 386 grams (0.8 lb).
    5. Priced at $449, the R1 headphones are available for pre-order, with deliveries starting in mid-January 2026.


    Ollo Audio has broadened its selection of headphones, introducing the R1 closed-back, over-ear studio headphones aimed at music recording.

    Key Features of the R1

    One of the standout features of the R1 is its well-isolated design, which minimizes sound leakage by up to 10 dB SPL. This ensures that backing tracks played for musicians won’t interfere with the live recording. To help singers feel like they’re in a vibrant performance setting, the audio tuning of these studio headphones is U-shaped, highlighting the bass and treble, as stated by Ollo Audio.

    Audio Performance and Design

    The earcups, made from American walnut, house 50 mm drivers that can reproduce audio frequencies ranging from 5 Hz to 22 kHz, with a total harmonic distortion (THD) of less than 0.12% at 94 dB SPL. These drivers can reach a maximum sound pressure level (SPL) of 110 dB at 32 ohms.

    Connectivity and Weight

    A detachable 2.0 meter (6.6 ft) Y-cable connects the earcups and features a mini XLR connector on the opposite end. Every component is designed to be user-replaceable. The total weight of the headphones is 386 grams (0.8 lb.).

    The R1, priced at $449, is currently available for pre-order on the company’s website, with deliveries starting in mid-January 2026. For readers interested in headphones for mixing tracks, the Ollo Audio X1 mixing headphones (available on Amazon) may also be worth considering.

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  • UX1000 Hybrid ANC Headphones: Stain-Resistant & Bluetooth Tuning

    UX1000 Hybrid ANC Headphones: Stain-Resistant & Bluetooth Tuning

    Key Takeaways

    1. The UX1000 wireless over-ear headphones have a stain-resistant design with a matte black and grey finish, priced at 7,980 yen (about $50).
    2. A special edition model, Buzz Rhythm 02, features a vibrant red color and includes unique sound elements, priced at 9,800 yen (about $60).
    3. The headphones offer hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC) and an ambient mode for outside sounds, weighing 250 grams (8.8 oz.).
    4. Equipped with Bluetooth 5.4, the headphones can connect to two devices simultaneously and provide up to 70 hours of playback.
    5. The headphones are available for purchase on Final’s website in Japan and on Amazon in the United States.


    Final has introduced its UX1000 wireless over-ear headphones in Japan.

    Design and Features

    The UX1000 features a body that resists stains, using a specially selected matte black and grey paint to fend off stains, body oils, and fingerprints, as stated by the company. The headphones are priced at 7,980 yen (approximately $50).

    In collaboration with Nippon TV, the creators of a well-known Japanese music show, a Buzz Rhythm 02 model has been released in a vibrant red hue. This special edition includes the voice of MC Bakalism and sound effects from singer P syudou. The MSRP for this model is set at 9,800 yen (about $60).

    Sound Quality and Technology

    Weighing in at 250 grams (8.8 oz.), these headphones feature hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC) that employs both feedforward and feedback microphones to effectively eliminate outside noise while listening to music. Additionally, they include an ambient mode that lets outside announcements and sounds come through without needing to take off the headphones.

    The Bluetooth 5.4 technology allows the headphones to connect to two audio devices simultaneously, boasting an impressive playback time of up to 70 hours, according to Final. A special technique was created to address the sound quality issues often found in Bluetooth audio, giving users a sound experience closer to live performances when using SBC or AAC codecs, according to the company. The frequency response of the headphones spans from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.

    Availability

    Consumers in Japan can purchase the headphones directly from Final’s website, while those in the United States should look for availability on the Final store on Amazon.

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  • Xiaomi Sound Pocket Ultra-Compact Speaker Launches in Europe

    Xiaomi Sound Pocket Ultra-Compact Speaker Launches in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has launched the Sound Pocket, a compact speaker with a Red Dot design award, in Europe and the UK.
    2. The speaker has an IP67 rating, making it waterproof and dustproof, suitable for poolside and beach use.
    3. It offers about 10 hours of music playback at 40% volume with a 1,000 mAh battery.
    4. The Sound Pocket supports Bluetooth 5.4 with a range of up to 25 meters and includes a microphone for hands-free calls.
    5. The speaker is priced at €24.99 (~$29) in Germany and the UK, with promotional discounts available, and can be found on Amazon in the US for around $22.


    Xiaomi has introduced the Sound Pocket, an ultra-compact speaker, in Europe and the UK after showcasing it last year. This speaker has won a Red Dot design award and offers true wireless stereo sound when two units are connected together. In addition, the device features an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance.

    Waterproof and Dustproof Design

    Due to its design, the Sound Pocket is fully protected against dust and can endure being submerged in water up to a meter deep for 30 minutes. With this capability, Xiaomi promotes it as ideal for poolside or beach activities. Furthermore, the speaker is said to deliver around 10 hours of music playback at 40% volume, powered by its 1,000 mAh internal battery.

    Bluetooth Connectivity and Features

    The Sound Pocket also comes with Bluetooth 5.4 support, allowing a transmission distance of up to 25 meters when paired with another device. Alongside this, a microphone is integrated into the speaker’s 5 W driver, enabling hands-free calls. For context, the Sound Pocket weighs about 200 g and its dimensions are 90.8 x 74.4 x 42.6 mm.

    Pricing and Availability

    At present, Xiaomi offers the Sound Pocket in Germany and the UK at €24.99 (~$29) and £14.99 (~$20), available in Blue Gray, Pocket Pink, and Black. However, launch promotions have reduced the price to €14.99 (~$17) and £12.99 (~$17) respectively. Alternatively, customers in the US can find the Sound Pocket on Amazon from various sellers for approximately $22. For more information, please visit Xiaomi’s official website.

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  • Bowers & Wilkins Launches Px8 S2 McLaren Edition Flagship Headphones

    Bowers & Wilkins Launches Px8 S2 McLaren Edition Flagship Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition features a unique color scheme of Anthracite Grey and Papaya Orange, inspired by Bruce McLaren’s first racing car.
    2. The design changes include the McLaren logo on the headband and carrying case, while technical specifications remain the same as the regular Px8 S2.
    3. The Px8 S2 offers excellent sound quality, 40 mm carbon-fibre drivers, and supports Qualcomm aptX Lossless and Bluetooth Multipoint for high-quality audio.
    4. The headphones include a five-band equalizer, weigh 310 g, and provide up to 30 hours of battery life on a single charge.
    5. The McLaren Edition is priced at $899, available from the B&W online store, while the standard edition costs $799 and is sold at various retailers.


    Although the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 just launched in September, B&W has quickly released the first special edition of these headphones. The McLaren Edition stands out from the regular Px8 S2 mainly due to its unique color scheme, which features a mix of Anthracite Grey and Papaya Orange, paying homage to Bruce McLaren’s inaugural racing car.

    Design Features

    Both the headband and the carrying case sport a McLaren logo. The technical specifications of the headphones remain unchanged, so B&W has set a higher price just for the design alterations. After reviewing the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2, we noted that it produces excellent sound quality and impressive craftsmanship. However, while the noise cancellation is good, it doesn’t quite reach the top level, and the smart features available are somewhat limited.

    Technical Specs

    The Px8 S2 is equipped with 40 mm carbon-fibre drivers and a sophisticated wireless module that supports Qualcomm aptX Lossless and Bluetooth Multipoint. When linked to a source device through USB-C, the headphones can provide 24-bit lossless audio for high-quality sound playback. A five-band equalizer is also included, giving users the ability to adjust the audio to their liking. Weighing in at 310 g (10.93 oz), the Px8 S2 can last up to 30 hours on a single charge.

    Pricing and Availability

    With a price tag of $899, the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition is now available on the official B&W online store, with shipping slated to start on November 21. In contrast, the standard edition is priced at $100 less and can be found at retailers like Amazon.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro Launches New ‘Find Your Phone’ Feature

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro Launches New ‘Find Your Phone’ Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro will feature a “Find Your Phone” function activated by a button on the charging case.
    2. This feature allows users to locate their phone using the earbuds, a shift from previous models where the phone located the earbuds.
    3. Pressing the button will send a signal to the paired smartphone, causing it to ring audibly for easier tracking.
    4. The charging case may include a speaker grill, suggesting potential for a “find your case” option, though details are still speculative.
    5. Overall, the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro aims to enhance user experience with new, practical features.


    The buzz around the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro has been quite lively lately. Even though the official release is still a few months off, we’ve already got some important information about Samsung’s upcoming high-end earbuds. Recently, the same source that has been sharing insights about the accessories features has provided an update on a noteworthy one: the inclusion of the “Find My Phone” function in the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro.

    New Feature Unveiled

    According to Android Authority, the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro will come with a “Find Your Phone” option that can be activated by pressing a special button on the charging case. This handy one-click feature addresses an issue that many face: misplacing their phone, even when it’s right at home.

    The source had previously touched upon Find Your Phone support in an earlier article. However, their recent update corrects a small misconception: this capability isn’t just a carryover from earlier models like the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro; it’s an entirely fresh addition for the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro.

    A Shift in Functionality

    As the name suggests, this function turns the usual approach on its head: instead of using the phone to locate the earbuds, the earbuds can now help find your phone. The “Find Your Phone” feature will utilize a physical button located on the case, which we’ve seen in the animations leaked earlier by the source. By pressing this button, the case will send a signal through the active Bluetooth connection to your paired smartphone, causing it to ring audibly.

    This is a cool upgrade. Finding your earbuds via your phone is relatively easy, but things can get tricky when your phone goes missing. In those cases, you often have to rely on specific location apps or ask someone else to call your phone. With the Find Your Phone feature in the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro, you’ll find it much easier to track down your lost device.

    Additional Details

    It’s also interesting to note that the charging case for the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro seems to include a speaker grill. However, there are currently no specific details regarding what this new feature might entail—beyond the possibility of a “find your case” option, but that remains speculative at this point.

    In conclusion, the upcoming Galaxy Buds 4 Pro appears to introduce some user-friendly features that could enhance the overall experience for users.

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  • Panasonic SoundSlayer x Final Fantasy XIV Neck Speaker Launched

    Panasonic SoundSlayer x Final Fantasy XIV Neck Speaker Launched

    Key Takeaways

    1. Panasonic will release the SoundSlayer x Final Fantasy XIV edition neck speaker on December 11, 2025, for 35,200 yen (about $230).
    2. The speaker features unique designs, including job icons from FFXIV characters and a box illustrated with a map of the Final Fantasy world.
    3. It includes an LED indicator light to show roles (DPS, Healer, Tank) and personalized sounds from Final Fantasy for startup and mode changes.
    4. The speaker delivers 4.0 surround sound with four 38 mm cone drivers, offers up to nine hours of battery life, and has two AI noise-canceling microphones.
    5. It connects via a 2.4 GHz wireless transmitter and is compatible with Windows PCs, PlayStation 4 and 5, and Nintendo Switch, weighing 403 g (14.2 oz).


    Panasonic Japan has announced the release of the SoundSlayer x Final Fantasy XIV edition neck speaker (SC-GNW10S-FF). This wireless surround-sound speaker is priced at 35,200 yen (about $230) and is expected to hit the market on December 11, 2025, in Japan.

    Special Features of the Speaker

    This collaborative edition comes in a uniquely illustrated box featuring a map of the Final Fantasy world on the back side. The speaker itself is black and showcases job icons from FFXIV characters, adding a nice touch. One of the main features is the LED indicator light, which can be set to represent one of three roles—DPS, Healer, or Tank. Additionally, the startup sounds and mode changes are personalized with original music and sound effects from Final Fantasy. The transmitter also features an illustration of Meteor.

    Design and Performance

    Shaped to comfortably wrap around the neck, the speaker includes four 38 mm cone drivers that deliver 4.0 surround sound, boasting a total power output of eight watts. This design promises an immersive experience for gameplay lasting up to nine hours on a single charge, as per Panasonic’s claims. It also comes equipped with two AI noise-canceling MEMS microphones.

    Connectivity and Compatibility

    The device utilizes a 2.4 GHz wireless transmitter to provide low-latency audio playback. Users can connect the transmitter to their devices via USB or a 3.5 mm cable. The SC-GNW10S-FF is compatible with various platforms, including Windows PCs, PlayStation 4 and 5 consoles, and the Nintendo Switch. It has dimensions of 256 x 56 x 221 mm (10.1 x 2.2 x 8.7 in.) and weighs 403 g (14.2 oz.).

    For those in Japan who are interested, the SoundSlayer x Final Fantasy XIV edition neck speaker can be pre-ordered at the Panasonic store.

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  • Affordable Xiaomi Soundbar Pro 2.0 Now Available in Europe

    Affordable Xiaomi Soundbar Pro 2.0 Now Available in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has launched the Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch in Europe, initially available in Spain with plans for wider release.
    2. The soundbar features two tweeters and two mid-bass speakers, delivering 84W power and supports Dolby Audio with six audio modes.
    3. It offers multiple connectivity options, including Bluetooth, HDMI (ARC), optical, and coaxial, along with NFC for easy smartphone pairing.
    4. The product includes a smart remote and touch controls, has a sleek design, and won a 2025 Red Dot Design Award.
    5. Priced at €99.99 in Spain, the Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch is more affordable than the 2.1 ch model, which is priced at €199.90 in Germany.


    Xiaomi has introduced the Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch in Europe. Initially listed on the company’s global website in June 2025, it is currently available in Spain and is anticipated to be launched in additional countries across the region soon.

    Features and Compatibility

    The Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch is tailored to complement a TV, with Xiaomi stating that it can be used with televisions from various brands, provided they have optical, coaxial, and HDMI (ARC) inputs, or Bluetooth support. The soundbar is equipped with two tweeters and two mid-bass speakers, delivering a total power of 84W. It operates within a frequency range of 50 to 20 kHz and is compatible with Dolby Audio. Users can select from six different audio modes designed for movies, gaming, and music.

    Connectivity Options

    Pairing a smartphone is simple thanks to NFC, and users can also connect via Bluetooth or through ports like HDMI (ARC), optical, and coaxial. The device includes a smart remote control, and touch controls are conveniently located on top of the soundbar. Notably, this model has received a 2025 Red Dot Design Award. The soundbar features a sleek black metal casing with a brushed finish and measures 840 x 87 x 60 mm (around 33.1 x 3.4 x 2.4 inches).

    Pricing and Availability

    You can purchase the Xiaomi Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch from the brand’s online store in Spain for €99.99. This price makes it approximately €70 less than the recently launched Xiaomi Soundbar Pro 2.1 ch. It remains uncertain when this model will be available in other European nations, such as Germany, where the Soundbar Pro 2.1 ch can already be found (currently priced at €199.90 at the Mi Store).

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  • Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro: New Stem Design and Gesture Support

    Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro: New Stem Design and Gesture Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro will have minor battery improvements over previous models.
    2. The design will feature a dual-tone look with a flat stem, moving away from the sharp design of the Buds3 series.
    3. Gesture controls and Multi Point connectivity will be retained, along with new head gesture features for notifications and calls.
    4. The Buds4 Pro will support 360° audio recording and include a “find my phone” feature with a redesigned case.
    5. The expected launch of the Galaxy Buds4 series is alongside the Galaxy S26 series, anticipated for late February 2026.


    Over a month has gone by since Android Authority offered an initial glimpse of the Galaxy Buds4. At that time, the site mentioned finding an icon in the One UI 8.5 firmware related to the ‘Buds 4’ name. Later that same month, GalaxyClub hinted that both the Galaxy Buds4 and Galaxy Buds4 Pro would come with minor battery improvements compared to the previous models.

    New Developments

    Recently, Android Authority has reportedly discovered more information by examining a Galaxy Buds app APK that Samsung plans to release with its future One UI 8.5 update. The Galaxy Buds4 and Galaxy Buds4 Pro, codenamed Handel and Bach respectively, seem to move away from the sharp design seen in the Galaxy Buds3 series (currently priced at $169 on Amazon). However, leaked animations suggest that Samsung is not following Apple’s design style with the AirPods.

    Design Features

    The Galaxy Buds4 series is said to feature a dual-tone look with a flat stem. While Samsung has apparently eliminated the light bar found in the Galaxy Buds3 series, it will keep gesture controls along with Multi Point connectivity and adaptive noise cancellation. Additionally, Samsung has incorporated head gestures that enable users to reply to notifications and answer calls without needing to use physical controls or check their phones.

    Upcoming Launch

    Furthermore, the Galaxy Buds4 Pro will continue to support 360° audio recording and will include a “find my phone” feature with a redesigned case. Samsung is currently anticipated to unveil the Galaxy Buds4 series together with its Galaxy S26 series. According to recent speculation, the company is planning to launch the Galaxy S26 around the end of February 2026.

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