The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds were launched last year, introducing a fresh naming system for the brand. Priced at $299, these earbuds faced competition from well-known models like the AirPods Pro and Sony WF-1000XM5. Recently, Bose has unveiled a more budget-friendly version of the Ultra.
Affordable Option
Named the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds, this new set of Bluetooth earbuds is priced at $179. While it’s not the cheapest option for wireless earbuds, it is almost half the cost of the Ultra model (available on Amazon). Bose’s goal with this model is to deliver a high-quality audio experience, which is supported by several premium features.
Advanced Features
Similar to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, the non-Ultra version includes various ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) modes. Although it lacks advanced technologies like Qualcomm aptX Lossless or Snapdragon Sound, Bose claims that these new earbuds can still provide "Hi-fidelity audio."
Connectivity and Battery Life
Another impressive feature of the new QuietComfort Earbuds is the Bluetooth multipoint support. This functionality, recently added to the Ultra model, allows users to seamlessly switch between devices without having to disconnect and reconnect. Bose also emphasizes the battery life of these earbuds.
With a full charge, the QuietComfort Earbuds offer up to 8.5 hours of playback time. Including the charging case extends the total listening duration to 31.5 hours. Additionally, these earbuds boast an IPX4 rating, making them resistant to sweat and water.
The new QuietComfort Earbuds are available in three colors: Black, Chilled Lilac, and White Smoke. You can purchase them directly from the official website.
A recent product listing seems to have revealed information about the upcoming Sonos Arc Ultra soundbar. Reliable tipster @MysteryLupin shared images and pricing details for both the Arc Ultra and the Sonos Sub 4 on X.
New Features Highlighted
A screenshot allegedly from the Sonos website, posted on Reddit, indicates that the Arc Ultra will be the brand’s first soundbar equipped with Bluetooth. It also hints at a feature called Sound Motion technology, which might be a rebranded version of Mayht’s HeartMotion self-balancing driver technology designed for smaller speakers. The leaked visuals of the Sonos Arc Ultra show a design that closely resembles the original Arc model, but the new version includes extra openings at the back and a slider to turn off the microphone. As with previous models, customers can select between black or white finishes.
Similar Design with Minor Changes
Images of the Sonos Sub 4 reveal that it is nearly identical to the Sub 3, except for new pill-shaped feet. The Sub 4 is expected to come with two force-cancelling woofers and will be available in a matte finish in either white or black.
Pricing and Release Information
Pricing for the Sonos Arc Ultra is under discussion, with @MysteryLupin proposing a retail price of $999, while the leaked screenshot shows a higher price of $1,199. The Sonos Sub 4 is expected to be priced at $799. The launch of both the Sonos Arc Ultra and Sub 4 was reportedly postponed due to problems with an update for the company’s app. The specific release date for these products has not yet been announced.
The Koss Porta Pros have been beloved since they launched in 1984. Their distinctive design and exceptional sound quality at a reasonable price have kept enthusiasts engaged through various updates in the series. The latest version, the Porta Pro Wireless, brings a significant design update that fans will appreciate.
Wireless Features and Battery Life
A standout feature of the Porta Pro Wireless is its use of Bluetooth 5.2 for wireless connection. While it may not be the newest Bluetooth version, the energy efficiency of Bluetooth 5.2 enhances battery performance, allowing for over 20 hours of playtime. Users can also manage calls and adjust volume thanks to an integrated microphone and audio controls. Charging is done via USB-C, and if the battery runs low, the USB-C port supports analog audio pass-through with the provided USB-C to 3.5 mm cable.
Innovative Design Elements
One of the most noteworthy design changes is the introduction of the dual steel headband. This new dual-band design allows audio to be transmitted between the two drivers, creating a truly wireless experience. Fans will be pleased to know that the Porta Pro Wireless retains the 60-ohm drivers that were a hallmark of the original Porta Pros. These drivers are celebrated for delivering powerful bass, clear highs, and excellent midrange frequencies ranging from 15 to 25,000 Hz.
Pricing and Availability
The Porta Pro Wireless is available for $99 on Amazon, and interested buyers can also check the Koss website for additional promotional offers.
Nothing has unveiled a significant number of smartphones this year compared to previous years. To provide some context, they kicked off the year with the Phone (2a) and followed it up four months later with the CMF Phone 1. Just a few weeks after that, they introduced the Phone (2a) Plus, which is currently priced at $429 on Amazon, offering slight enhancements over the original Phone (2a).
Upcoming Product Teasers
Now, Nothing is starting to tease a brand-new product. However, it seems unlikely that this will be the highly anticipated flagship smartphone everyone has been waiting for. The teaser provided below indicates that Nothing may not be planning to release a new version of last year’s Ear (2) earbuds either.
Speculations on New Earbuds
Instead, it appears that Nothing is gearing up to launch an alternative to Bose’s Ultra Open Earbuds or Huawei’s FreeClip earbuds. Although this is purely speculative, the tagline “out in the open” along with the teaser image suggests that the company is developing a type of open earbud. Currently, Nothing has announced that its “new arrival” is set to debut on September 24. We expect that they will release more teasers leading up to next Tuesday.
Anker’s sub-brand, Soundcore, has launched the Select 4 Go portable Bluetooth speaker (model A31X1), making it an excellent choice for music lovers who want to listen on the move without spending a lot. It features a 1.75" full-range driver that delivers 5W audio output in a compact form. The speaker promises up to 20 hours of playtime.
Connectivity and Durability
For connectivity, it utilizes Bluetooth 5.4 with a range of 30 meters and supports true wireless stereo pairing. This allows users to connect two compatible speakers for a stereo sound experience, where one plays the left audio channel and the other plays the right. With an IP67 rating, this speaker is both dustproof and water-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Additionally, it includes a customizable equalizer, enabling users to adjust the sound to their liking.
Performance and Warranty
Soundcore asserts that the Select 4 Go can handle continuous playback for five days at 40°C without any drop in performance. The battery is said to retain 95% of its performance even after 300 cycles, and the buttons are rated for up to 3,000 presses. For added assurance, the speaker also comes with a 24-month warranty.
Pricing and Availability
The Soundcore Select 4 Go is priced at $24.99 in the US on Amazon, £22.49 in the UK (with a 10% discount voucher), and $33.99 in Canada. It is currently offered in blue, black, and white, with additional colors expected soon, including purple and green, as seen in some promotional materials on Amazon.
In the package, customers will find the Select 4 Go speaker, a 60 cm USB-A to C cable, and a quick start guide—all great additions for the price. Its compact dimensions (12.08 x 8.27 x 4.85 cm) and lightweight design (265g) are attractive for travelers. However, those seeking louder sound may prefer the Soundcore Select 2S, which is larger and heavier, priced at $39.99 on Amazon.
You can purchase the blue version of the Soundcore Select 4 Go Bluetooth Speaker on Amazon here.
Soundcore Amazon via u/joshuadwx on r/Anker subreddit.
Apple is advancing its minimalistic packaging strategy with the latest AirPods 4, continuing the trend they started by removing power adapters from iPhone boxes a few years back.
The new AirPods 4, available in both standard and noise-canceling versions, will not include a USB-C charging cable in their packaging. This was confirmed on Apple’s official AirPods comparison page, which notes that the "USB-C Charge Cable" is sold separately for these models.
Adapting to USB-C
Apple has recently completed its shift to USB-C across its devices, yet it is now excluding the cable from new products. Many users might have an abundance of USB-C cables already, but this change could be inconvenient for those upgrading from older devices or new users who are just joining the Apple ecosystem. For these individuals, purchasing an additional cable becomes necessary to charge their new AirPods.
While Apple might argue that this move is an effort to be environmentally friendly by reducing packaging waste, the removal of a single cable might not be the most significant step toward sustainability. It’s a trend many can support, but there are potentially more impactful measures Apple could consider.
Future of iPhone Packaging
The current iPhone 16 models still include a USB-C cable, but it’s uncertain whether this will continue in the future. Considering Apple’s recent changes, it’s plausible that the company might eventually eliminate the charging case for earphones as well.
Apple AirPods 4 Specifications
Despite the absence of a charging cable, the AirPods 4 come with a host of features. They maintain the design of previous models with a semi-in-ear stem and silicone tips, which now offer a more universal fit. Both versions are IPX4 water-resistant and retain tap control features, with added gestures like a head nod for "yes" and a head shake for "no" to manage Siri and calls.
The audio experience has been enhanced with Personalized Spatial Audio and head tracking, delivering an immersive listening experience. While the standard AirPods 4 do not have Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), the premium version includes this technology, which was previously exclusive to AirPods Pro. Both models feature a "Conversational Mode" to reduce volume during conversations, with the ANC version offering additional Transparency Mode and Adaptive Audio for enhanced user control.
Sony India has introduced the SA-D40M2 home theater system, designed to deliver robust and immersive audio experiences for living rooms at an appealing price.
The SA-D40M2 features a sleek design with four satellite speakers and a subwoofer, providing a combined output of 100W. This 4.1 channel configuration ensures clear and dynamic sound for movies, music, and gaming, maintaining detailed audio even at high volume levels.
Wireless and Wired Connectivity
Users can enjoy wireless convenience with Bluetooth connectivity, enabling music streaming from smartphones, tablets, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices. The system can remember up to eight paired devices, making it easy to switch between audio sources.
For those who prefer wired options, the SA-D40M2 is equipped with a USB port and a 3.5mm stereo mini jack, supporting USB drives, older MP3 players, and devices without Bluetooth capability.
Advanced Bluetooth connectivity with multi-device pairing
USB playback and 3.5mm AUX input
The Sony SA-D40M2 is currently available for Rs. 9,990 at Sony Centers, authorized dealers, major electronics outlets, and online platforms such as Amazon.in and Flipkart.com throughout India.
In related news, Huawei has launched the Sound Joy 2, a portable speaker that combines a compact design with powerful sound and intelligent features. It is powered by an 8800mAh battery, offering up to 26 hours of playtime, and supports fast charging via a 40W Type-C port. The speaker’s quad-unit Huawei Sound System provides rich audio through a 20W speaker, 10W tweeter, and two passive radiators.
Apple hosted its anticipated fall event today, where the tech giant from Cupertino introduced the iPhone 16 series and the Watch Series 10. Additionally, Apple unveiled the AirPods 4, marking a significant update from the AirPods 3 launched in 2021. This new release includes two models: an entry-level version and a standard option.
Two Models of Apple AirPods 4
The AirPods 4 maintain the previous models’ design, featuring a semi-in-ear stem and silicone ear tips. Apple claims the newest earphones offer an improved fit for most users. They are also IPX4-rated for water resistance. Users can still perform various functions by tapping the earbud stems, and there’s a new feature allowing users to nod or shake their heads to interact with Siri and handle calls.
Regarding audio, the AirPods 4 boast Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking for a more immersive sound experience. The budget model lacks Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), while the premium version includes it, previously only available in AirPods Pro. The earbuds feature a Conversational mode that decreases volume during conversations. The ANC variant also offers transparency mode and adaptive audio, providing more options based on user preferences and budget. Both models are powered by an H2 chipset, enhancing battery life, personalizing the listening experience, and enabling faster pairing.
Battery Life and Connectivity
The AirPods 4 offer up to 30 hours of battery life, including the storage case, which supports wireless charging. With this update, Apple has fully transitioned to USB-C ports across all its devices. The earbuds themselves deliver about 6.5 hours of usage.
The AirPods 4 pair includes features such as Find My, a redesigned case with a built-in speaker, seamless audio switching, and more.
Pricing and Availability
The entry-level AirPods 4 model is priced at $129, while the mid-tier version costs $179, matching the AirPods 3’s pricing. Pre-orders begin today, with sales starting on September 20.
Realme has introduced the Narzo 70 Turbo smartphone in India, and alongside it, the brand unveiled a new TWS earphone, the Realme Buds N1. These earphones feature noise cancellation, a rich listening experience, and extended battery life. They enter the market as competitors to models like the Redmi Buds 5 and OnePlus Nord Buds. Let’s explore what the Realme Buds N1 brings to the table.
Realme Buds N1 Features
The Realme Buds N1 are designed with an in-ear style that includes a stem and silicone ear tips, ensuring both security and comfort. They boast an IP55 rating, making them resistant to dust and water. Users can manage various functions by tapping on the earbud’s stem.
In terms of audio capabilities, the Realme Buds N1 are equipped with a 12.4mm dynamic bass driver, titanium diaphragm, and N52 magnets. They offer 46dB hybrid active noise cancellation to filter out unwanted sounds. Each earbud is fitted with three microphones and utilizes an AI-driven DNN neural network algorithm for reducing noise during calls, promising clear communication. Moreover, these TWS earphones provide Spatial Audio for a 360-degree immersive sound experience.
Battery Life and Connectivity
Powered by a 480mAh battery unit, the Realme Buds N1 claims to deliver 40 hours of battery life. With active noise cancellation (ANC) turned off, each earbud can last up to 9 hours. The earphones support Bluetooth 5.4 and can connect to two devices simultaneously, allowing for smooth transitions between them.
Pricing and Availability
The Realme Buds N1 are priced at Rs 2,499, but for a limited time, they are available for Rs 1,999. These earphones come in an Energizing Green color and can be purchased starting September 13 from the brand’s website and Amazon.
Shanling AE10 earphones are crafted to deliver remarkable audio quality, combining advanced audio technology with an elegant design. Featuring ten balanced armature drivers and a six-way crossover, the AE10 ensures a crisp, layered sound that allows listeners to appreciate every nuance of their music. The earphones’ carbon fiber shell, created using a vacuum resin molding (VRTM) process, enhances both durability and visual appeal, making them notable for both sound quality and design.
The Shanling AE10 earphones boast a luxurious design. Using the VRTM process, the cavity is made with a carbon fiber shell, resulting in a lightweight yet sturdy construction. Each earbud weighs just 5.3 grams, offering comfort during extended listening periods without feeling cumbersome. The black-toned shell is adorned with glitter powder through electroplating, reminiscent of a starry night sky, adding sophistication to the earphones’ appearance. This blend of style and comfort ensures the AE10 is both fashionable and practical.
Enhanced Sound Clarity with Six-Way Crossover
A standout feature of the Shanling AE10 is its six-way crossover technology, which incorporates a fourth-order LRC filter. This technology minimizes sound wave interference, providing a clearer and more detailed audio output. The result is an optimized sound performance with improved timbre and depth. This sophisticated crossover system enables the earphones to manage a wide range of frequencies more effectively, providing users with a broader and more immersive soundstage.
Ten Balanced Armature Drivers for Robust Audio
Fitted with ten balanced armature drivers, the AE10 is divided into three dedicated sections for low, mid, and high frequencies. Four acoustic armature low-frequency units deliver robust, full-bodied bass with exceptional clarity, resulting in a warm and smooth sound. The midrange is driven by three Shanling-customized armature drivers, ensuring exceptional vocal clarity. Finally, two Knowles high-frequency drivers offer precise treble with rich layers, providing brightness without harshness. This combination of drivers results in a comprehensive audio experience suitable for various music genres.
Dual Switch for Customizable Sound Modes
The Shanling AE10 offers adaptability with its dual-switch system, allowing users to tailor their listening experience. With low and high-frequency switches, users can choose from four different sound modes, each designed for different preferences. Whether you desire deep bass or crisp highs, these modes offer personalized audio settings, ensuring the AE10 aligns with your music tastes.
Universal 0.78-2pin Detachable Cable
The AE10 includes a detachable cable made from 8-strand 18-core monocrystalline copper wire, crafted to minimize signal interference and improve sound quality. Its coaxial double-layer structure ensures robustness, while the antibacterial nano-coating provides lasting protection, keeping the wire in excellent condition. The universal 0.78-2pin design allows for easy cable replacement, offering users greater flexibility in their setup.
Key Specifications
Type: In-ear
Driver: 10 mm Dynamic Drivers
Impedance: 12 Ω
Sensitivity: 113 ± 3 dB
Frequency Response: 12 – 40,000 Hz
Weight: 5.3 g
Cable: 1.3 m 8-strand 18-core monocrystalline copper
The Shanling AE10 distinguishes itself with its detailed design and cutting-edge audio technology. With a combination of balanced armature drivers, flexible sound modes, and robust build quality, the AE10 is a top-tier choice for audiophiles who seek an engaging listening experience.
