Category: Audio

September 10, 2025
Hobbyist Transforms MacBook Pro into Theremin Using Hidden API
Key Takeaways
1. Hobbyist coders often focus on what they can create rather than why they create it.
2. Sam Henri Gold discovered a hidden API in macOS that detects the angle of a MacBook lid.
3. He developed an application that displays the lid angle and plays a sound when the lid is moved.
4. His tweet about the project went viral, attracting suggestions for new features from the community.
5. While the application may not serve a practical purpose, it highlights the excitement of exploring hidden technology.
Hobbyist coders often don’t think about the big question of “why” – they just do things because they can. One such engineer and tinkerer, known as Sam Henri Gold on Twitter/X, admits he has “too much free time.” He stumbled upon a secret API in macOS that can detect the angle of the lid on a MacBook.
Sam’s Discovery
It’s not exactly clear how Sam was able to use this API, but he managed to create a complete application that not only shows the lid angle but also plays a sound when the lid is moved. The sound he picked for this project is actually quite fitting – it mimics the creaking of a wooden door opening or closing.
Going Viral
The tweet about his creation has gained a lot of attention, with many people suggesting features, like musical instruments or a Pac-Man controller. In response, Sam chose to add a theremin simulator, which sounds just as one would expect. Does it have any real usefulness? Not really, but the thrill of finding hidden APIs is definitely exciting, especially for those who enjoy exploring beyond the surface.
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Tags: MacOS
September 8, 2025
Teile Elektronik Launches K1 Headphones Designed for Pro DJs
Key Takeaways
1. The K1 headphones are designed specifically for DJs, developed over two years of live testing by DJ Rampa.
2. They feature a strong clamping headband for a secure fit and effective noise isolation, but do not include active noise cancellation.
3. The headphones offer versatile connectivity options, including 1/4-inch, 1/8-inch, and USB-C, though the USB-C cable is sold separately.
4. Equipped with 40 mm drivers, the K1 delivers clear and powerful audio quality, along with a built-in microphone for phone calls.
5. The retail price of the K1 headphones is 199€ (approximately $230), available for purchase from Teile Elektronik.
Teile Elektronik has introduced their new K1 headphones, specially made for DJs after two years of careful testing in live settings. Founded by DJ Rampa, the K1’s design and tuning benefited from his extensive experience as a touring DJ.
Design and Comfort
The K1 features a headband that applies strong clamping pressure to keep the headphones securely in place during performances at clubs and dance venues. This firm grip ensures that the earcups fit snugly against the head, minimizing outside noise effectively. Notably, the K1 does not incorporate active noise cancellation. The earpads can be replaced, and the earcups can be folded for easier storage.
Connectivity Options
These headphones can connect to 1/4-inch, 1/8-inch, and USB-C audio sources. When plugged into analog devices using the provided 180 cm (6 ft.) cable, the K1 has an impedance of 32 ohms. Note that the USB-C cable must be purchased separately.
Audio Quality and Pricing
According to Teile, the K1 is equipped with 40 mm drivers that deliver clear, powerful, and vibrant sound reproduction. Additionally, a microphone is included for phone calls.
The K1 headphones are priced at 199€ (approximately $230) and can be purchased directly from Teile Elektronik.
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September 8, 2025
Beyerdynamic Launches Aventho 200, Amiron 200, Amiron Zero Headphones
Key Takeaways
1. Product Launch: Beyerdynamic introduced three new mid-range audio products: Aventho 200 headphones (€249), Amiron 200 earphones (€179), and Amiron Zero earbuds (€149).
2. Aventho 200 Features: The Aventho 200 headphones have 45 mm drivers, support aptX Lossless codec, offer up to 40 hours of battery life with ANC, and can recharge in 1.5 hours.
3. Amiron 200 Design: The Amiron 200 earphones are designed for athletes, feature a secure fit, use smaller drivers, and provide up to 11 hours of battery life with a two-hour recharge time.
4. Amiron Zero Comfort: The Amiron Zero earbuds are lightweight at 6 g each, share driver specifications with the Amiron 200, and offer up to 6 hours of battery life with a two-hour recharge.
5. Availability and Colors: All models will be available in black or white, with the Amiron 200 and Zero offered in additional sport colors. They are rated IP54 for dust and water resistance and will launch in Q4 2025.
Beyerdynamic recently launched a set of three mid-range headphones and earphones. These products are the Aventho 200 over-ear headphones priced at €249 (~$290), the Amiron 200 open-ear earphones at €179 (~$209), and the Amiron Zero clip-on earbuds, which cost €149 (~$174).
Aventho 200 Headphones
Among these, the Aventho 200 stands out as the top choice for music lovers. It features 45 mm drivers with a frequency range from 10 Hz to 22 kHz. The headphones support the aptX Lossless codec, allowing for high-quality music streaming via Bluetooth 5.4. Additionally, they can be connected through a wired 3.5 mm cable. For calls, the device uses two feed-forward and two feedback microphones to reduce background noise. Beyerdynamic claims the headphones can last up to 40 hours with active noise cancelling (ANC) on, and they can fully recharge in 1.5 hours.
Amiron 200 Earphones
The Amiron 200 is tailored for athletes and runners, featuring a design that securely wraps around the ears. It is equipped with 18 x 11 x 4.85 mm (0.71 x 0.43 x 0.19 in.) drivers and has a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz. This model only supports the basic SBC and AAC audio codecs via Bluetooth 5.3, and it utilizes two microphones for call noise cancelling. According to the company, these earphones can last for up to 11 hours on a single charge, with a recharging time of two hours.
Amiron Zero Earbuds
The Amiron Zero is crafted for comfort, weighing just 6 g (0.21 oz.) per earbud. Similar to the Amiron 200, it also uses 18 x 11 x 4.85 mm (0.71 x 0.43 x 0.19 in.) drivers with a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz. This model too only supports the SBC and AAC codecs over Bluetooth 5.4 and employs two microphones for noise cancelling during calls. The earbuds can operate for up to six hours on a full charge and take two hours to recharge, as per the company’s information.
All three models will be available in black or white, with the Amiron 200 and Zero offered in additional sport colorways. The latter two are also rated IP54 for dust and water resistance. These products are expected to hit the market in the fourth quarter of 2025 and will be available on the Beyerdynamic store found on Amazon.
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September 8, 2025
Zoom H6 Handy Recorder: 6-Track 192 kHz Audio for Musicians
Key Takeaways
1. High-Quality Recording: The H6studio can record six tracks of 192 kHz, 32-bit float WAV audio, utilizing built-in and external microphones.
2. Dynamic Range: The device features a dynamic range of 123 dB with built-in mics and 132 dB with external mics, capturing quiet to loud sounds effectively.
3. 32-Bit Float Technology: This technology allows users to avoid adjusting gain when recording, preventing sound clipping.
4. Monitoring Options: Users can monitor recordings through headphones or a built-in speaker, with a color LCD display showing live levels and audio waveforms.
5. Portability and Price: The H6studio measures 86.0 x 221.0 x 54.6 mm, weighs 477 g, and is priced at $399.99.
Zoom has introduced the H6studio Handy Recorder, designed for capturing high-quality audio on music stages and film sets.
Recording Capabilities
This device is capable of recording six separate tracks of 192 kHz, 32-bit float WAV audio onto microSDHC/microSDXC cards. It utilizes built-in 90-degree XY stereo microphones, as well as external options like 3.5 mm or XLR mics. Users can replace the XY microphone module with other compatible capsule systems, which also includes wireless options. Additionally, the H6studio supplies phantom power to XLR mics that need it.
Advanced Features
The feature of 32-bit float recordings means that users don’t have to tweak the gain for sound capturing, preventing clipping. The built-in microphones offer a dynamic range of 123 dB, which allows them to pick up sounds from a very quiet 17 dB SPL to an extremely loud 140 dB SPL. When paired with external microphones, the internal preamps provide a 132 dB dynamic range. The H6studio supports low-bit recording modes, and a look-ahead limiter is included to help minimize overloads and clipping issues.
Monitoring and Connectivity
For monitoring recordings, users can utilize headphones or the built-in speaker. The device features a 2-inch 320 x 240 color LCD display, which can show live levels and audio waveforms. On film sets, the H6studio can integrate with a wireless timecode adapter, allowing it to output or sync clocks with an accuracy of 0.5 ppm. According to Zoom, the unit is capable of recording six tracks continuously for up to 6.5 hours using lithium batteries.
Dimensions and Pricing
The Zoom H6studio has dimensions of 86.0 x 221.0 x 54.6 mm (3.4 x 8.7 x 2.1 in.) and weighs 477 g (1.1 lbs. including batteries). It is priced at an MSRP of $399.99 and can be purchased on Amazon.
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Tags: audio recording, High Resolution
September 8, 2025
Loewe and Jacob & Co. Launch Ultra-Luxury Ice Diamond Headphones
Key Takeaways
1. Loewe has launched two luxury headphones in collaboration with Jacob & Co., priced at €99,000 (Noir Rainbow) and €119,000 (Ice Diamond).
2. Both headphone models feature high-resolution audio technology, 50 mm drivers, and support various audio codecs via Bluetooth 5.3, with up to 65 hours of battery life.
3. The Noir Rainbow headphones are adorned with 15.97 carats of colorful gemstones set in 14K rose gold, while the Ice Diamond features 12.47 carats of brilliant-cut diamonds set in 14K white gold.
4. Loewe, founded in 1923, is recognized for its elegant audio products, while Jacob & Co., established in 1986, is known for its innovative luxury items.
5. A limited edition of five units for each headphone model was unveiled in Monaco, appealing to collectors and luxury enthusiasts.
Loewe has introduced two extravagant headphones that are encrusted with jewels, created in partnership with Jacob & Co. The more affordable option is the €99,000 (~$116K) Noir Rainbow, while the pricier choice is the €119,000 (~$139K) Ice Diamond. These headphones are handcrafted and are a dream for collectors, blending cutting-edge audio technology with carefully placed gemstones and diamonds.
A Visionary Collaboration
Jacob & Co. was established in the USA in 1986 by Jacob Arabo, who emigrated from the former USSR. His ambition was “to invent things that haven’t been done before.” The brand aims to turn the impossible into reality. It is well-known for its unique timepieces, like the 2016 Billionaire Timeless Treasure, which features 486 yellow diamonds totaling 216.9 carats and a 72-hour tourbillon.
A Rich Heritage
Founded in Germany in 1923 by Siegmund and David Ludwig Loewe, Loewe created the first television set ever. The brand is celebrated for its elegant home cinema and audio products that stand the test of time.
Both models of headphones are equipped with 50 mm drivers that are suitable for high-resolution music playback. They support various audio codecs, including SBC, AAC, LC3, and LC3+, via Bluetooth 5.3. Features include Dolby Audio and 3D Audio, along with active noise cancellation that can be toggled between off, on, and transparency modes. An AI assistant is built-in to assist users with spoken notes and live language translations. According to Loewe, the IP53-rated headphones last up to 65 hours on a single charge and take just two hours to recharge.
Wired Connections
While these headphones come with 3.5 mm unbalanced audio jacks for wired connections, high-end amplifiers like the $108,000 Audio-Technica HPA-KG Naru integrated tube amplifier are usually better suited for headphones with balanced inputs.
The Noir Rainbow is a vibrant display of colorful gemstones. The earcups feature black patterned surfaces accented by 14K rose gold rings at the center, which hold a collection of hand-selected gemstones. In total, 15.97 carats of gems are meticulously set into the gold rings.
Glimmering Elegance
The Ice Diamond highlights the beauty of brilliant-cut diamonds. Its earcups are adorned with silver-colored, patterned surfaces, featuring 14K white gold rings that hold 456 round brilliant-cut diamonds. A total of 12.47 carats of stones are intricately set into polished 42.5-gram rings.
This September, a limited edition of five units each was revealed for the first time in Monaco on the company’s yacht.
Those who lead more conventional lifestyles might want to explore more budget-friendly alternatives, such as the wooden headphones offered by Audio-Technica on Amazon.
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Tags: Loewe
September 8, 2025
Pocket Scion: Harnessing Plants to Create Music
Key Takeaways
1. The Pocket Scion is a compact and affordable synthesizer that converts plant biofeedback into music.
2. It uses electrical probes to measure voltage changes in plants, transforming these into musical notes.
3. The device includes MIDI connectivity and an app for loading new synth sounds on multiple operating systems.
4. It features Open Sound Control, allowing it to control other software and manage visual effects.
5. The Pocket Scion is portable with a built-in battery and is priced at $149, available for delivery in various countries.
Modern Biology made waves a few years ago when a musician teamed up with a biologist to make music using plants and a modular synthesizer. Now, a partnership with British synth maker Instruō has led to the creation of a much smaller and less expensive version of the previous synth setup, called Pocket Scion.
How It Works
The Pocket Scion is equipped with two electrical probes that pick up biofeedback from plants by measuring changes in electrical voltage. These voltage changes are turned into musical notes, which can be sent to a recording device or played through speakers and headphones using a 3.5 mm AUX port. The Pocket Scion also includes four different digital instruments.
Connectivity and Features
You can connect external instruments through MIDI or load new synth sounds onto the Pocket Scion using the provided app, which works with Windows, macOS, and Linux. Additionally, Open Sound Control enables the Pocket Scion to act as a controller for other software, like managing visual effects in Unreal Engine. The sound it generates is displayed through a series of LEDs on the front panel. Its built-in battery makes it portable, so you can use it anywhere without needing extra power.
Pocket Scion is now on sale in various countries around the globe, and you can find a comprehensive list here (via ‘World’). It is priced at $149 in the United States, with delivery anticipated to take place in two to five days. For more information regarding this unique instrument, check out the official product page from Instruō.
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September 8, 2025
Apple Powerbeats Fit Leak: Euro Prices and Upgrades Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. Release and Pricing: The Apple Powerbeats Fit will launch on September 30, 2025, priced at €249.95, similar to the Beats Fit Pro.
2. Design and Durability: The earbuds have a smaller charging case (17% smaller than Beats Fit Pro) and an IPX4 rating for sweat and water resistance, with battery life of 7 hours (up to 30 hours with the case).
3. Sound Features: They are expected to include active noise cancellation (ANC), transparency mode, spatial audio with head tracking, and improved call clarity with two beamforming microphones.
4. Connectivity: The Powerbeats Fit will feature the Apple H1 Bluetooth chip, enabling “Hey Siri” voice commands and tracking via the “Find My?” app.
5. Special Features: The earbuds will have an “Adaptive Equalizer” to adjust audio based on fit, and will come with a USB-C charging cable and eartips in four sizes.
The Apple Powerbeats Fit made their debut in a teaser video at the end of August, and recently, Dealabs has uncovered key details regarding their features and release. The earbuds are expected to launch on September 30, 2025, and will be priced at €249.95, matching the retail price of the Beats Fit Pro.
Design and Durability
In contrast to the Powerbeats Pro 2, the Powerbeats Fit seemingly lacks a heart rate sensor. However, the charging case is reportedly 17% smaller than that of the Beats Fit Pro. Both the earbuds and the case hold an IPX4 rating, making them resistant to sweat and water damage. Moreover, battery performance has improved, offering seven hours of use, or up to 30 hours with the charging case.
Sound Features
The Powerbeats Fit are rumored to feature active noise cancellation (ANC) along with a transparency mode. A new chip and two beamforming microphones are expected to enhance noise cancellation and call clarity. They also support spatial audio, which includes head tracking capabilities.
Connectivity and Special Features
Equipped with the Apple H1 Bluetooth chip, the earbuds allow users to utilize “Hey Siri” voice commands when connected to an iPhone, and they can be tracked through Apple’s “Find My?” app. A unique aspect of the Powerbeats Fit is the “Adaptive Equalizer,” which adjusts the audio output based on how well the earbuds fit in the ear. Furthermore, Apple is anticipated to include a USB-C charging cable along with eartips in four different sizes.
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Tags: Apple, Powerbeats Fit, wireless earbuds
September 8, 2025
Jade Audio Launches Jiezi USB DAC with Hi-Res Audio Support
Key Takeaways
1. Model Variants: The Jiezi is available in two versions: Jiezi A (3.5 mm unbalanced) and Jiezi B (4.4 mm balanced) for different headphone needs.
2. Hi-Res Audio Support: Both models support high-resolution audio formats, including 32-bit, 384 kHz PCM and DSD.
3. Wide Compatibility: The Jiezi works with various systems, including Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux, as long as they have a USB-C port.
4. Technical Features: The Jiezi A offers in-line controls, a ten-band PEQ, weighs only 6 g, and has an SNR of 104 dB and THD+N of 0.0034%.
5. Pricing: The Jiezi A is priced at $29.95 and is available in black with gold or red accents.
Jade Audio, which is part of Fiio, has introduced the Jiezi headphone digital audio converter and amplifier. This device features an aluminum-magnesium alloy frame that showcases beautiful Eastern designs.
Model Options and Features
The Jiezi comes in two versions: the 3.5 mm unbalanced Jiezi A, suitable for most headphones, and the 4.4 mm balanced Jiezi B, which is meant for higher-end models. It’s important to note that while the Jiezi B model has an unbalanced internal structure, the balanced output of 4.4 mm is only for headphone jack compatibility. Both versions support Hi-Res Audio, enabling audiophiles to experience high-resolution music in 32-bit, 384 kHz PCM and DSD formats.
Compatibility and Connectivity
This device works with a range of systems including Android, Apple iOS, Huawei HarmonyOS, Microsoft Windows, Apple macOS, and Linux, as long as they have a USB-C port. The USB cable is designed with palladium-plated OFC wiring, wrapped in silicone, and features a braided exterior. The Jiezi supports USB Audio Class (UAC) 1.0 and 2.0, making it compatible with gaming consoles like the Nintendo Switch and Sony PlayStation 5.
Technical Specs and Pricing
The Jiezi A includes in-line controls for calls and music playback, among other functions. Users can also tweak additional settings like a ten-band PEQ through a web interface on computers or via the Fiio control app on Android devices.
Weighing just 6 g (0.2 oz.), the Jiezi has a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 104 dB and a total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) of 0.0034%. It delivers an output power of 49 mW per channel at 16 ohms. The Jiezi A measures 90 mm (3.5 in.) in length, while the Jiezi B is slightly longer at 100 mm (3.9 in.).
The Jiezi A is currently listed on Aliexpress with a suggested retail price of $29.95, available in black with either gold or red accents. For those interested, Fiio’s other USB DACs can be found on Amazon.
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Tags: FiiO, USB-DAC
September 7, 2025
Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen: Better Battery, Cinema Mode, USB-C Audio
Key Takeaways
1. Updated Design: The QuietComfort Ultra 2 features subtle design changes, including an inlaid Bose logo and shiny aluminum yokes for a premium look.
2. Enhanced Comfort: The headphones maintain a lightweight feel at 250 grams and include protein leather-wrapped headband and removable ear cushions, available in four colors.
3. Improved Technology: Upgraded ActiveSense technology enhances noise cancellation, with automatic on-head detection and modes for complete quiet or awareness of surroundings.
4. Audio Features: Supports spatial audio for immersive playback, improved bass performance, and lossless audio over USB-C, while still including a traditional audio jack.
5. Battery Life: Battery life increased to 30 hours (23 hours with Immersive Audio), with a quick 15-minute charge offering 2.5 hours of playback; pre-orders available for $449.
Bose has revealed a new version of its high-end headphones, the QuietComfort Ultra. The latest model, known as the QuietComfort Ultra 2 or QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen, features a slightly updated design along with several improvements and new features.
Design Changes
When it comes to the look of the QuietComfort Ultra 2, they seem quite similar to the previous version at first glance. But if you take a closer look, you’ll notice some differences. The Bose logo on the earcups is now inlaid instead of being printed. Additionally, the aluminum yokes have a shiny, polished finish. While this finish may attract fingerprints, it definitely enhances the headphones’ premium appearance when they are clean.
Comfort and Materials
The earcups remain made of plastic, while the adjustable headband and removable ear cushions are wrapped in protein leather, which is synthetic leather. Weighing in at 250 grams, just like the original model, the QuietComfort Ultra 2 maintains a lightweight feel. Bose will offer these headphones in four colors: Black, Midnight Violet, Driftwood Sand, and White.
Features and Technology
The QuietComfort Ultra 2 headphones boast enhanced ActiveSense technology for better noise cancellation. They also feature improved on-head detection, allowing them to switch on and pair with your device automatically when worn. Once removed or folded, they will enter a low-power standby mode. Like the first generation, these headphones include a Quiet Mode for complete noise cancellation and an Aware Mode for when you need to be aware of your surroundings.
According to Bose, the new model now supports spatial audio for both video and audio playback. The new cinema mode offers spatial and balanced surround sound, enhancing both dialogues when watching videos and listening to audiobooks or podcasts. There’s also been an improvement in bass performance at higher volumes, and these headphones now utilize Bluetooth 5.4.
Audio and Battery Life
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 supports lossless audio over USB-C, while still keeping an audio jack available. Bose includes a USB-C to USB-C cable, a 3.5mm to 2.5mm audio cable, and a hard case with the headphones. As for battery life, it has improved from 24 hours (18 hours with Immersive Audio) in the previous generation to 30 hours (23 hours with Immersive Audio). Charging time remains at 3 hours, but a quick 15-minute charge provides 2.5 hours of playback.
Bose is currently accepting pre-orders for the QuietComfort Ultra 2 ahead of their release in October. They can be pre-ordered in all four colors on Bose’s website for $449/£449.95, which matches the price of the Sony WH-1000XM6. Additionally, you can also pre-order them from Amazon in Driftwood Sand and Black.
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Tags: Noise Cancellation, Spatial Audio
September 7, 2025
Affordable Redmi Desktop Speaker 2 Pro with Wireless Playback
Key Takeaways
1. Budget-Friendly Design: The Redmi Desktop Speaker 2 Pro is an affordable option priced at CNY 369 (approximately $52).
2. Advanced Driver Setup: It features a four-driver arrangement with two passive woofers and two racetrack-style speakers, each rated at 10 watts, providing an expansive soundstage.
3. Versatile Connectivity: Users can connect via USB, Bluetooth 5.3, or AUX input; however, the speaker must remain plugged into a wall outlet as it lacks a built-in battery.
4. Modern Aesthetic: The speaker has a metal grille design with a side knob and integrated RGB lighting that offers six effects, which can sync with music.
5. Customizable Audio Options: It includes five EQ presets, including a game mode for an enhanced audio experience tailored to user preferences.
Xiaomi has launched a new budget-friendly desktop speaker called the Redmi Desktop Speaker 2 Pro. It’s presently offered on the crowdfunding site Youpin, featuring a four-driver setup. This setup includes two passive woofers along with two racetrack-style speakers, each rated at 10 watts.
Wide Soundstage
According to Xiaomi, this driver arrangement enables the speaker to deliver an expansive soundstage. The Redmi Desktop Speaker 2 Pro also boasts versatile connectivity options. Users can enjoy audio through USB, connect wirelessly via Bluetooth 5.3, or use the AUX input for a wired connection.
Connectivity and Design
It’s important to mention that this speaker lacks a built-in battery. Therefore, it must stay plugged into a wall outlet, even when using the wireless mode. Xiaomi does provide a separate power adapter for this purpose.
One of the standout features of this new budget speaker is its metal grille design. Combined with a side knob, it gives the desktop speaker a modern and elegant appearance. Additionally, it comes with integrated RGB lighting that can be set to six different effects, which can sync with the music (10-feet Philips Hue Lightstrip Base Kit currently priced at $61.99 on Amazon).
Customizable Sound Experience
Users can also choose from five different EQ presets depending on their listening preferences. Among these is a game mode that promises an engaging and responsive audio experience.
In terms of pricing, the Redmi Desktop Speaker 2 Pro is available on Youpin for CNY 369, which is roughly $52. There has been no announcement regarding its international release, though Xiaomi does offer a similar model, the Xiaomi Desktop Speaker.
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Tags: Xiaomi