Category: Audio

  • Xiaomi Launches Affordable Smart Glasses with 11-Day Battery Life

    Xiaomi Launches Affordable Smart Glasses with 11-Day Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. Affordable Pricing: Xiaomi’s Smart Audio Glasses are priced at $86.54 on AliExpress, making them a reasonable option compared to competitors.

    2. Sound Quality: Equipped with an SLS0820 ultrasonic speaker and an echo-cancelling algorithm, the glasses offer optimized sound quality with deep bass and clear treble.

    3. Long Battery Life: They boast an impressive battery performance, lasting up to 11 days in standby mode and providing around 10 hours of music playback.

    4. Comfortable Design: Weighing only 40 grams, the glasses feature a comfortable frame with adjustable nose pads and a temple curve for all-day wearability.

    5. Durability and Convenience: The Smart Audio Glasses have an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance and include touch controls for easy operation.


    Xiaomi has launched a new pair of smart glasses for the worldwide market. Known as the Smart Audio Glasses, these are currently listed on AliExpress priced at $86.54. Although this is a reasonable price, the features offered are not as comprehensive as some competing products available.

    Features Overview

    Specifically, the product, as its name suggests, is essentially a set of glasses that functions similarly to Bluetooth earbuds. Due to their design, these smart glasses can serve as a substitute for open-ear headphones. Xiaomi emphasizes that there are protections against sound leakage, ensuring added privacy when used in public.

    Sound Quality Insights

    The smart glasses are equipped with an SLS0820 ultrasonic speaker and a sound cavity structure algorithm. This setup enables the glasses to provide “optimized sound quality,” delivering “rich, deep bass” as well as “vibrant, clear treble.” An echo-cancelling algorithm is also included, which helps reduce distortion and guarantees a clear audio experience.

    Battery Performance

    A standout feature of the Xiaomi Smart Audio Glasses is their battery longevity. The company states that in standby mode, they can last up to 11 days, and they reportedly provide around 10 hours of playback time while listening to music. For recharging the built-in battery, these glasses use a magnetic pogo pin charger, which is similar to those found with most smartwatches.

    Design and Comfort

    In terms of design, Xiaomi points out that the frame weighs just 40 grams. With a temple curve designed for comfort and adjustable nose pads, these glasses are said to offer all-day wearability. Other notable features include a detachable hinge design for frame interchangeability, an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance, and convenient touch controls.

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  • Steinberg SpectraLayers 12: Separate Tracks and Vocals Easily

    Steinberg SpectraLayers 12: Separate Tracks and Vocals Easily

    Key Takeaways

    1. AI-Powered Audio Editing: SpectraLayers 12 uses AI to help identify and isolate sounds through a spectrogram representation of audio tracks.

    2. Instrument Recognition: The tool can recognize common instruments and can be trained to identify new ones for automatic track separation.

    3. Manual Sound Selection: Users can manually select sounds and frequencies for precise editing, including removing unwanted noise.

    4. Vocal Enhancement: Features like the Voice Enhance module use AI to improve low-quality vocal recordings and restore lost details.

    5. Pricing Options: SpectraLayers 12 Pro is priced at $349.99, while the basic version, SpectraLayers 12 Elements, is available for $89.99.


    Steinberg has introduced SpectraLayers 12, a new audio editing tool that can break down music into separate instruments and vocals, as the company reports. These tracks can be repurposed for new mixes, modified to fix audio problems, and improved to enhance low-quality vocal recordings.

    AI-Powered Editing

    SpectraLayers utilizes artificial intelligence to assist editors in pinpointing desirable or problematic sounds through a spectrograph representation of audio tracks. This spectrogram shows time on the horizontal axis, frequency on the vertical axis, and amplitude represented by various colors.

    Enhanced Instrument Recognition

    The AI is capable of recognizing typical instruments, including guitar, drums, piano, and saxophone, and can be trained to understand new instrument samples for automatic track separation. It also supports manual selection by helping to identify both the main frequency of an instrument and its harmonic frequencies.

    This functionality allows users to swiftly locate sounds, like the deep hum of an air conditioning unit or the crash of a cymbal, and eliminate them from their recordings. Isolated sounds and vocals can be reused, adjusted, or processed to get rid of unwanted background noise. Features like the Voice Enhance module leverage AI to restore lost details in subpar vocal recordings, potentially aiding in the revival of old films and analog recordings or salvaging a poor live performance.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Steinberg SpectraLayers 12 Pro, which includes all the new features, has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $349.99. In contrast, SpectraLayers 12 Elements, a more basic version with significantly fewer features, is priced at $89.99. Both versions can be purchased through the company’s website and authorized resellers.

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  • Audio-Technica ATH-TWX9MK2 ANC Earbuds: Pure Motion Drivers & More

    Audio-Technica ATH-TWX9MK2 ANC Earbuds: Pure Motion Drivers & More

    Key Takeaways

    1. High-Quality Sound: The ATH-TWX9MK2 earbuds feature 5.8 mm Pure Motion Drivers with a wide frequency range of 10 Hz to 40 kHz and support high-resolution audio playback.

    2. Advanced Noise Cancellation: Equipped with MEMS microphones and Qualcomm’s cVc Generation 8.0 technology, these earbuds offer enhanced active noise cancellation.

    3. Personalized Experience: The earbuds automatically adjust ANC based on the user’s ears and include a hear-through feature for ambient listening.

    4. Comfort and Fit: They come with four sizes of ear tips in different heights to ensure a comfortable fit for various users.

    5. Battery Life and Sanitization: The earbuds provide up to six hours of use with ANC and include a charging case that sanitizes the earbuds using Deep-UV LEDs.


    Audio-Technica has introduced its top-of-the-line ATH-TWX9MK2 earbuds, which come loaded with several enhanced and innovative features designed for those who love high-quality music.

    Sound Quality and Technology

    The ATH-TWX9MK2 is equipped with 5.8 mm Pure Motion Drivers, boasting a frequency response range from 10 Hz to 40 kHz and a sensitivity rating of 105dB/mW. These advanced drivers feature a tough, beryllium-coated center dome and an elastic polyurethane outer dome, powered by a tiny voice coil and dampened with a Sefar acoustic mesh. According to the company, these earbuds support high-resolution audio playback via aptX Adaptive Audio (up to 96 kHz 24-bit) and are compatible with Hi-Res Audio Wireless.

    Noise Cancellation Features

    Each earbud features both feed-forward and feed-backward MEMS microphones to enhance the active noise cancellation (ANC) capabilities, surpassing the performance of the previous model, as stated by A-T. The microphones deliver a frequency response from 20 Hz to 10 kHz with a sensitivity of −38dB (1V/Pa at 1 kHz). They function as a beamforming microphone system, utilizing Qualcomm’s cVc Generation 8.0 technology, which helps to clearly capture the user’s voice even in noisy surroundings.

    Personalization and Comfort

    These earbuds can automatically adjust the ANC based on the user’s ears by emitting a reference tone that the microphones pick up to find the optimal settings. Additionally, a long touch on the earbuds allows for manual optimization of ANC for the current setting if the five available presets aren’t enough. The hear-through feature lets users listen to conversations around them without needing to take out the earbuds. To ensure a comfortable fit, four sizes of ear tips in three different heights are included.

    When users are not engaged in music or calls, the ATH-TWX9MK2 can play calming nature sounds and meditation audio, helping to unwind after a busy day or aiding concentration while studying.

    Battery Life and Design

    The earbuds offer a runtime of up to six hours with ANC activated and up to 18.5 hours when using the charging case. Each earbud weighs 5.5 g (0.19 oz.), while the case weighs 55 g (1.94 oz.). Additionally, the case is equipped with Deep-UV LEDs that sanitize the earbuds with germicidal light, effectively killing bacteria and viruses. Users can recharge the case using a USB-C power supply or a wireless charger.

    The Audio-Technica ATH-TWX9MK2 earbuds, available in black or white, have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of 38,500 yen (approximately $265). They are expected to launch on July 11, 2025, in Japan and will soon be available at the Audio-Technica store on Amazon US.

    Audio-Technica, Audio-Technica press release, Audio-Technica on YouTube.

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  • Moondrop Space Travel 2: Beryllium Drivers, ANC, Bluetooth 6.0 at $29

    Moondrop Space Travel 2: Beryllium Drivers, ANC, Bluetooth 6.0 at $29

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Moondrop Space Travel 2 features improved Bluetooth 6.0 connectivity and a special gaming mode that reduces latency to 55 ms.
    2. Enhanced 13 mm dynamic drivers with a beryllium coating provide better sound quality with less than 0.5% total harmonic distortion.
    3. Users can customize sound profiles using an equalizer in the Moondrop app, which also allows sharing and exporting settings.
    4. AI technology improves active noise cancellation, and battery life has increased to seven hours, with a total of 24 hours using the charging case.
    5. The retail price is expected to remain at $29.99, but availability in Europe and other regions is not yet announced.


    The Moondrop Space Travel TWS gained immense popularity because of their great price-performance ratio, and now the company is enhancing these truly wireless earbuds. The overall look is mostly similar, with only updated lettering on both the charging case and the earbuds, while the hardware sees some significant upgrades.

    Improved Connectivity and Drivers

    One major change is that the Moondrop Space Travel 2 now supports Bluetooth 6.0, but it still only works with the AAC and SBC codecs. A special gaming mode helps reduce latency down to 55 ms. Moondrop continues to employ dynamic drivers with a size of 13 mm, but these drivers have been enhanced with a beryllium coating and are said to have a total harmonic distortion of less than 0.5 percent.

    Custom Sound Profiles

    These earbuds are designed for a natural sound experience, yet they can be customized to individual tastes using an equalizer provided in the Moondrop app. This app also lets users share and export their sound settings. The active noise cancellation has been improved through AI technology, which is expected to outperform the previous version. Another big advantage is the battery life, which now lasts up to seven hours. With the charging case, total playback time is suggested to reach 24 hours. The case itself charges through USB-C.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Moondrop Space Travel 2 is anticipated to retail at $29.99, the same as its predecessor. However, the company has not yet disclosed when these earbuds will be available in Europe and other regions. The first-generation Moondrop Space Travel can also be found on Amazon.

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  • Nothing Headphone (1) Official: Premium Features & 80-Hour Battery

    Nothing Headphone (1) Official: Premium Features & 80-Hour Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. Premium Audio Quality: The Nothing Headphone (1) features custom 40 mm dynamic drivers, tuned by KEF, with a frequency range of 20 Hz to 40 KHz and effective noise cancellation up to 42 dB.

    2. Long Battery Life: Offers up to 80 hours of playback without ANC, 35 hours with ANC, and 55 hours with LDAC codec, along with 57 hours of talk time per charge.

    3. Quick Charging: Five minutes of charging provides five hours of playback, and a full charge takes about 2 hours.

    4. Dual-Device Connectivity: Utilizes Bluetooth 5.3 for dual-device pairing and includes features like Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair.

    5. Compatibility and Features: Supports spatial audio with compatible hardware, works with iOS and Android via the Nothing X app, and includes USB-C and 3.5 mm audio connections. Price is set at €299.


    After its initial introduction with the Nothing Ear (1) in 2021, Nothing has launched various new products. Now, they’re expanding their lineup with a new headphone model made to pair with the Nothing Phone (3). The Nothing Headphone (1) targets audiophiles and includes several features that elevate it to a premium level.

    Impressive Specifications

    These headphones feature custom 40 mm dynamic drivers, carefully tuned by KEF, boasting an impedance of 15 Ohms and a frequency range from 20 Hz to 40 KHz. They are equipped with four microphones for calls and two additional ones for Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), achieving a noise reduction capability of up to 42 dB. On the other hand, the Transparency mode allows users to be aware of their environment.

    Battery Life and Charging

    According to Nothing, the Headphone (1) can provide up to 80 hours of playback on a single charge without ANC (using the AAC codec). When ANC is activated, this duration reduces to 35 hours. If you opt for the LDAC codec, the battery life drops to 55 hours without ANC and 30 hours with it. Additionally, users can expect around 57 hours of talk time per charge, thanks to a robust 1,040 mAh Li-ion battery that charges through USB-C.

    Quick Charging Features

    Moreover, Nothing states that just five minutes of charging gives you five hours of playback without ANC. A complete charge takes approximately 2 hours. The Nothing Headphone (1) allows for dual-device connectivity using Bluetooth 5.3. It includes features like Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair, and a low-latency mode designed for gaming.

    Extra Features

    Spatial audio is also part of the package, but it only works with compatible hardware. The Nothing Headphone (1) is compatible with both iOS and Android devices through the Nothing X app. In addition to wireless connectivity, it supports both USB-C and 3.5 mm audio connections.

    The price for the Nothing Headphone (1) is set at €299, and it comes in two colors: Black and White.


  • QCY Crossky C50 Earbuds: Open-Ear Design & 35-Hour Battery Life

    QCY Crossky C50 Earbuds: Open-Ear Design & 35-Hour Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. Design and Sound Features: The QCY Crossky C50 earbuds feature a modern open-ear design and include a 10.8 mm dual-magnet sound driver with a bass enhancement algorithm for clear sound quality.

    2. Microphone and Call Quality: Equipped with four microphones and a beamforming algorithm, the earbuds ensure excellent call quality in various environments, though they do not have active noise cancellation.

    3. Build Quality and Battery Life: Made with skin-friendly liquid silicone and flexible titanium wire, the earbuds are lightweight and have an IPX5 rating for water resistance, offering up to 7.5 hours of playtime and a total of 35 hours with the charging case.

    4. Advanced Connectivity: The C50 uses Bluetooth 6.0 technology for a stable connection, supports multipoint connections for linking two devices at once, and includes a Find My Earbuds feature.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The QCY Crossky C50 earbuds are available in pink, black, and white colors, priced at $39.99, and can be purchased through QCY’s official website.


    QCY has introduced its new earbuds, the Crossky C50. These earbuds come with a modern cuff-like open-ear design that resembles the Soundpeats’ Pop Clip earbuds (currently priced at $39.98 on Amazon). They include a 10.8 mm dual-magnet sound driver and a bass enhancement algorithm, aiming to provide clear sound with a personalized experience for users.

    Microphone and Sound Quality

    The open-ear design of these earbuds is equipped with four microphones—two on each bud—that utilize a beamforming algorithm. According to the company, these microphones ensure excellent call quality, even in busy or windy conditions. However, the earbuds do not support active noise cancellation. Additionally, they feature a directional acoustic structure that the brand claims reduces sound leakage by as much as 90%.

    Build and Battery Life

    Regarding their construction, the Crossky C50 is made with skin-friendly liquid silicone and flexible titanium wire, which gives them a lightweight, secure fit. They hold an IPX5 rating, indicating they can handle splashes of water and sweat. Users can expect up to 7.5 hours of playtime on a single charge, with the wireless charging case extending the total listening time to 35 hours. There’s also a fast charging option; just 10 minutes of charging provides 2 hours of playback.

    Connectivity and Features

    In contrast to the Soundpeats Pop Clip, the C50 features the latest Bluetooth 6.0 technology, guaranteeing a stable, lag-free connection. It also supports multipoint connections, allowing users to link the earbuds to two devices simultaneously and switch between them with ease. Additionally, the C50 includes a Find My Earbuds feature, helping you track them down if misplaced. The accompanying QCY app offers various functionalities, such as EQ adjustments, touch control settings, battery monitoring, and more.

    Available in colors like pink, black, and white, the QCY Crossky C50 earbuds are priced at $39.99. You can buy them now through QCY’s official website.

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  • Marshall Middleton II Bluetooth Speaker: LE Audio, Longer Battery Life

    Marshall Middleton II Bluetooth Speaker: LE Audio, Longer Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Middleton II maintains the classic Marshall design while introducing distinct differences from the original model.
    2. Enhanced sound quality features include deeper bass, more precise audio, and True Stereophonic technology for 360° sound.
    3. The battery life has improved to over 30 hours and now includes LE audio support and power bank functionality for charging devices.
    4. New features include a built-in microphone for hands-free calling and dedicated controls for adjusting bass and treble.
    5. The Middleton II is priced at €299, the same as the original, and is available in Black and Beige starting July 15.


    It’s been more than two years since Marshall introduced the Middleton portable Bluetooth speaker. Now, they have launched its successor, named Middleton II, which comes with several impressive improvements.

    Design Features

    The Middleton II maintains the classic look associated with Marshall’s speakers. While it resembles the original model, there are enough clear differences to distinguish between them. Similar to its forerunner, the Middleton II includes a carrying strap and is rated IP67 for resistance against dust and water.

    Enhanced Sound Quality

    In terms of audio features, the Middleton II is designed to sound better, as Marshall claims it has enhanced its sound quality. Compared to the earlier version, this new speaker is said to produce deeper bass and more precise audio even when played at maximum volume. Thanks to Marshall’s special True Stereophonic (360° sound) technology, it can easily fill a room with sound.

    Battery Life and Additional Features

    Another significant upgrade is the addition of LE audio support, which improves both audio quality and energy efficiency. Speaking of battery life, the Middleton II boasts over 30 hours of use, a big improvement from the 20+ hours offered by the original Middleton. It can also function as a power bank for your phone when it’s running low on battery.

    Meanwhile, the Middleton II now includes a microphone on the top, which enables hands-free calling—a feature that was missing from the first generation. Interestingly, the Kilburn III lacks a microphone as well. The Middleton II keeps the battery indicator and physical controls on top, which have dedicated buttons for adjusting bass and treble. However, users can also fine-tune the sound via the companion app.

    Pricing and Availability

    Despite all these enhancements, the Marshall Middleton II continues to carry the same price of €299 as its predecessor. It is available for purchase now on Marshall’s official website in Black and Beige, and it will be on shelves in retail stores starting July 15.

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  • Marshall Unveils Midnight Blue Speakers and Headphones Collection

    Marshall Unveils Midnight Blue Speakers and Headphones Collection

    Key Takeaways

    1. Marshall has launched a new color called Midnight Blue for select products, including the Major V headphones and Acton III and Emberton III Bluetooth speakers.
    2. The Midnight Blue Major V headphones are priced at $169.99, $10 more than the other color options.
    3. The Midnight Blue Acton III maintains a price of $299, consistent with the other colors.
    4. The Midnight Blue Emberton III is priced at $189.99, also $10 higher than other color options.
    5. In Europe and the UK, Midnight Blue products have the same pricing as other colors, unlike in the US.


    Along with the new Middleton II, Marshall has introduced a fresh hue for some of its current products, similar to what Bose has done. This new shade is named Midnight Blue and is exclusive to the Marshall Major V headphones and the Acton III and Emberton III Bluetooth speakers.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can purchase the new color directly from Marshall’s website. The Major V in Midnight Blue retails for $169.99, which is $10 higher than the Brown, Cream, and Black versions. However, if you prefer a more classic look, Amazon is selling the Black variant for just $99.99! Meanwhile, the Midnight Blue Acton III, which debuted in Black, Brown, Cream, and a special Awake NY edition, maintains the price of $299 like the other colors.

    Emberton III Details

    The Emberton III in Midnight Blue is priced at $189.99, which is also $10 more than the Cream, Black, Brass, and Sage color options. Interestingly, the new Middleton II and Kilburn III are not offered in the Midnight Blue colorway.

    European and UK Pricing

    The Midnight Blue collection is also available in Europe and the UK. However, unlike in the US where the Major V and Emberton III are priced higher than other colors, their prices align with the other options in Europe. This means the Midnight Blue Acton III is priced at €299/£259.99, the Midnight Blue Emberton III is €179/£149.99, and the Midnight Blue Major V is €149/£129.99.

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  • Sony Updates WH-1000XM6 and WF-1000XM5 with Key Improvements

    Sony Updates WH-1000XM6 and WF-1000XM5 with Key Improvements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has released firmware updates for WF-1000XM5 and WH-1000XM6, but not for WH-1000XM5.
    2. Updates improve Quick Access and Scene-based Listening modes for Apple Music and YouTube Music.
    3. A new Low Latency Bluetooth connection option is introduced, alongside existing connection settings.
    4. The WH-1000XM6 gains a feature to alert users of potential water damage to its USB Type-C port and supports voice commands in French, German, and Spanish after the update.
    5. Users must install updates via the Sound Connect app without charging the headphones during the process.


    Sony has been seen rolling out a fresh wave of updates for two of its 1000X series headphones. Strangely, the WH-1000XM5 has not been included in this update cycle. Instead, Sony is providing new firmware for the WF-1000XM5 and WH-1000XM6, priced at $448 on Amazon, with updates labeled as Version 5.0.2 and Version 2.0.2, respectively.

    Improvements in Listening Modes

    Sony claims that these updates enhance the Quick Access and Scene-based Listening modes when using Apple Music and YouTube Music. Additionally, the new firmware introduces a Low Latency Bluetooth connection option, which is meant to work alongside the existing Stable Connection and Sound Quality settings.

    New Features for Enhanced Experience

    Furthermore, Sony highlights that both updates enable the ‘capture your own voice during call’ feature to function with all ambient sound controls. The WH-1000XM6 also gains the ability to alert users if its USB Type-C port experiences water damage. After updating to Version 2.0.2, the headphones will also support voice commands in French, German, and Spanish.

    As usual, users will need to install the firmware updates through the Sound Connect app, which may take up to an hour to finish. It’s important to note that the WF-1000XM5 and WH-1000XM6 should not be charging while performing the update. For more details, check Sony’s support announcements.

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  • OneOdio Focus A6: Hi-Res Audio Headphones with ANC & Game Mode

    OneOdio Focus A6: Hi-Res Audio Headphones with ANC & Game Mode

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation: The Focus A6 headphones feature advanced hybrid ANC technology with five microphones to reduce outside noise effectively.

    2. High-Resolution Audio Support: They hold a Hi-Res Audio certification and utilize the LDAC codec with Bluetooth 6.0 for high-quality music playback.

    3. Long Battery Life: With ANC on, battery life lasts up to 40 hours; with ANC off, it extends to 75 hours, and a quick 10-minute charge provides 10 additional hours.

    4. Multi-Device Connectivity: The headphones can connect to two audio devices simultaneously and have a low latency of 65 milliseconds in game mode.

    5. Portability and Design: Weighing 8.5 oz (240 g) with foldable ear cups and an adjustable metal headband, they are designed for easy transport.


    The OneOdio Focus A6 over-ear headphones are here, featuring hybrid active noise cancellation, support for high-resolution music, and ear cup faceplates made from sandblasted aluminum.

    Specifications and Features

    Equipped with 40 mm drivers, the Focus A6 headphones have a frequency range that spans from 20 Hz to 40 kHz. They hold a Hi-Res Audio certification for music playback, utilizing the LDAC codec with Bluetooth 6.0 connections. Notably, these headphones can connect simultaneously to two audio devices, achieving a latency as low as 65 milliseconds in game mode.

    Noise Cancellation Technology

    The hybrid ANC technology incorporates five microphones along with advanced AI methods to minimize outside noise while enjoying music. Users can switch between different noise cancellation settings (off, on, wind noise reduction, wind-resistant transparency, and transparency) via the physical ANC button located on the earcup, right next to the regular power and volume buttons. These microphones also play a role in calls, helping to lessen background noise.

    Battery Life and Portability

    With ANC activated, the headphones can last for up to 40 hours; if ANC is turned off, they extend to 75 hours of playtime. Charging is done through a USB-C power supply, and just 10 minutes of charging can provide an extra 10 hours of use. Weighing in at 8.5 oz. (240 g), the Focus A6 features foldable ear cups that are attached to an adjustable metal headband, making them easy to carry around.

    The OneOdio Focus A6 headphones are set for pre-sale at an introductory price of $59.99 (black) or $69.99 (ivory) from June 30 to July 6 on the company’s website. Following the global launch on July 7, the regular retail price will be $79.99, and they are expected to be available through the OneOdio store on Amazon.

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