Category: Audio

July 29, 2024
Huawei FreeBuds 6i: 100% Better Active Noise Cancellation Announced
Huawei is expanding its FreeBuds line with the introduction of the FreeBuds 6i, which is now available for pre-sale in China. Although the final price hasn’t been announced yet, the company is offering a 100 yuan (approximately USD 15) discount during the pre-sale period, which runs from July 29th to August 6th, 2024.
Specifications and Features
The FreeBuds 6i comes in three familiar colorways: Streamer Purple, Sky White, and Phantom Night Black. Emphasis is placed on improved noise cancellation, with Huawei claiming a 100% improvement over the previous generation. This translates to a maximum noise reduction depth of 27dB, aligning it with current flagship offerings.
The earbuds achieve this through a combination of adaptive noise reduction algorithms that adjust in seconds, a “resonance silencer cavity” designed to target human voices, and triple-microphone AI noise reduction. Huawei notes that the earbuds have secured A+ CAIA wireless headset noise reduction capability certification.
Audio quality is provided by an 11mm quad-magnet dynamic driver, with Huawei touting 10-band equalizer custom sound effects for user personalization.
Design and Battery Life
The earbuds also support three-microphone AI noise reduction for calls, making them a potential option for those working in noisy environments. Design-wise, the FreeBuds 6i reportedly sees a 6% reduction in the volume of the in-ear portion compared to prior models.
Battery life is rated at 35 hours for music playback with the charging case included. A 10-minute quick charge provides enough juice for 4 hours of listening, a decent offering for users on the go. The FreeBuds 6i also boasts IP54 dust and water resistance, making them suitable for workouts or light rain.
HarmonyOS Features
One interesting feature is the support for audio streaming and audio sharing between multiple HarmonyOS devices. This could be a boon for Huawei users invested in the company’s ecosystem, but its usefulness for those outside that circle remains limited.
Tags: Adaptive Noise Cancellation, Huawei FreeBuds 6i, Multi-day Battery Life
July 27, 2024
POCO Buds X1 Launch in India on August 1
The POCO brand recently introduced the POCO F6 Deadpool & Wolverine Limited Edition smartphone in India and is now gearing up to release the POCO M6 Plus 5G on August 1, 2024. In addition to the new smartphone, the company is also set to unveil the POCO Buds X1.
Details about the earbuds are still limited, but teaser images reveal a white in-ear design. The company claims that the Buds X1 will provide a “pure, uninterrupted audio experience,” indicating a strong emphasis on sound quality. These will be the second TWS earbuds by POCO available in the Indian market, following the launch of the POCO Pods last year.
Features and Specifications
Like the upcoming Buds X1, the previously released POCO Pods also sport an in-ear design. They come equipped with 12mm audio drivers and Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless connectivity. The earbuds support the SBC codec, ensuring good audio quality, and offer Google Fast Pair for quick and easy pairing. Although they lack active noise cancellation, they do feature environmental noise cancellation to minimize background noise during calls.
The POCO Pods are rated IPX4, making them splash-resistant and ideal for outdoor use. Each earbud has a 34mAh battery that provides up to 5 hours of playback on a single charge, while the charging case’s 440mAh battery offers up to 30 hours of backup power. A quick 10-minute charge delivers 90 minutes of music playback. It’s likely that the POCO Buds X1 will enhance these features.
Tags: POCO Buds X1, POCO Pods
July 27, 2024
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 Price Leaks for US, UK, Europe
Yet another leak has surfaced regarding the upcoming Pixel Buds Pro 2, and this time, it sheds light on the price of Google‘s next flagship earbuds.
The leak comes from the publication Dealabs (via reliable tech insider @billbil_kun) which revealed that the Pixel Buds Pro 2 will be priced at £219 in the UK, $229 in the US, and €249 in the Eurozone. Interestingly, the European price for the Buds Pro 2 matches the launch price of the original Pixel Buds Pro, but it is a $30 increase for the US market.
Design and Aesthetic
We’ve also gotten a good look at the Pixel Buds Pro 2 design through previous leaks. But there don’t seem to be many upgrades — the earbuds maintain a familiar silhouette and have minimal aesthetic changes.
The case also retains the recognizable egg-shaped form. However, there’s a new cutout near the bottom’s USB-C port. It could accommodate a wrist strap for easier carrying or a speaker for Google’s Find My Device network to locate misplaced earbuds easily.
Minor Changes
The earbuds might also see a change in the grille design which is slightly bigger than its predecessor. And unlike the previous model, where the grille has a black paint job regardless of the color variant, the Buds Pro 2 will feature a grille that matches the color of the earbuds.
Specifications
As for other specs, a certification listing from April 2024 suggests that the Pixel Buds Pro 2 case might feature a 650mAh battery, a 30mAh increase compared to its predecessor.
With a nearly two-year gap between the original Pixel Buds Pro and its successor, it’s reasonable to expect improvements in terms of audio quality and noise cancellation capabilities. More details regarding features and specifications are likely to emerge closer to the official launch date.
Tags: Design Changes, Pixel Buds Pro 2, Pricing Leaks
July 25, 2024
Philips TAX2208 Bluetooth Party Speaker 30W Launched in India
Philips has rolled out the TAX2208 Bluetooth Party Speaker, catering to budget-minded consumers seeking portable audio solutions. This speaker delivers a 30W output, dynamic bass enhancement, and various party light modes to elevate the audio experience. Its compact design, equipped with a handle, ensures easy portability.
Key Features and Specifications
A standout feature is the True Wireless technology that enables users to pair two speakers for a stereo sound experience. Additionally, the speaker includes a built-in microphone and karaoke controls, making it perfect for karaoke sessions at home. The TAX2208 boasts up to 7 hours of playtime and offers both Bluetooth and wired connectivity options.
Pricing & Availability
The speaker is priced at Rs. 5,490 and is available for purchase throughout India. Sajeev Rajasekharan, Managing Director of Philips AVA & Soundbar Business at TPV Technology India, expressed excitement about the launch: "We are thrilled to introduce the TAX2208 Party Speaker, our newest addition to the Philips Audio range. This speaker showcases our dedication to providing products that deliver excellent audio quality with practical features. Whether hosting a party or enjoying music, the TAX2208 Speaker aims to enhance the listening experience."
In related news, boAt has unveiled the Stone 352 Pro, a 600-gram Bluetooth speaker designed for social gatherings. It features a 14W RMS output with boAt’s Signature Sound technology and vibrant RGB lights. The speaker supports Bluetooth 5.3, TWS pairing, and includes USB, AUX, and TF card ports. It is IPX5 splash-resistant, offers up to 12 hours of playtime, and utilizes a Type-C charging interface.
Tags: Bluetooth Party Speakers, Philips TAX2208
July 25, 2024
Pixel Buds Pro 2 Leak: Minor Changes, New Raspberry Color Option
Leaks and speculations are rampant about Google’s forthcoming Pixel gadgets. Recently, details about the Pixel Buds Pro 2 have emerged. These earbuds are anticipated to succeed the original Pixel Buds Pro introduced back in 2022. A Reddit user has shared images of a leaked Spigen case for Google's next TWS earphones. Let's delve into the specifics.
Pixel Buds Pro 2 Case Design and Color Options
The leaked images indicate that the Pixel Buds Pro 2 will maintain the same case design as its predecessor, preserving the egg-shaped appearance. A notable change is a new cutout beside the USB-C port at the bottom of the case. This could potentially offer a wrist strap option or a speaker for Google’s Find My Device network. The earbuds themselves feature a larger grille that matches the color of the device, unlike the black grille found on all previous versions.
Additionally, the leak showcases the TWS earphones in a Pink hue, similar to the Pixel 9's color. This aligns with earlier reports suggesting the upcoming audio product will be available in a Raspberry shade. Other expected colors include Mojito, Porcelain, and Haze. While major redesigns are not anticipated, slight tweaks might be made to improve the fit of the earbuds.
Additional Details and Expected Improvements
The leak does not provide further information about the Pixel Buds Pro 2. However, a certification listing from April this year suggests the new earbuds will feature a slightly upgraded battery of 650mAh, an increase of 30mAh from the previous model. More details are likely to emerge as the launch event approaches.
Given that the original Pixel Buds Pro is getting a successor after two years, significant enhancements in the audio department, such as improved sound quality and noise cancellation, can be expected with the Buds Pro 2.
Tags: Leaked Design, New Colors, Pixel Buds Pro 2
July 24, 2024
Huawei FreeBuds 6i with Noise Cancellation Launch in China
Tech blogger @Kanshan’s uncle has shared new insights regarding the imminent Chinese launch of the Huawei FreeBuds 6i wireless headphones. The FreeBuds 6i are equipped with Huawei’s Intelligent Dynamic ANC 3.0 technology, delivering an average noise reduction depth of 27dB. This advanced technology is designed to adjust noise cancellation dynamically in response to surrounding noise levels. Additionally, the headphones come with an 11mm driver, which ensures robust bass performance, allowing frequencies as low as 14Hz.
Color Options and Battery Life
The earbuds will be offered in China in three color variants: black, white, and purple. The battery life is impressive, providing 8 hours of usage on a single charge, with the charging case offering multiple recharges. The case is also coated with a nano-silver ion layer, enhancing its hygiene properties.
Pricing and Availability
The Huawei FreeBuds 6i will be introduced in China with color choices of black, white, and purple. The international price is set at 99 euros, which is about 783 yuan, indicating a competitive pricing strategy for the Chinese market. Although the official release date is anticipated this month, specific details remain unconfirmed.
Tags: Adaptive Noise Cancellation, Huawei FreeBuds 6i, Release Information
July 24, 2024
Boat Airdopes Alpha Deadpool Edition Earbuds Launched in India
Indian electronics manufacturer Boat has embraced the Deadpool and Wolverine craze with the introduction of the Airdopes Alpha Deadpool Edition TWS earbuds. This special edition follows the initial release of the Airdopes Alpha earbuds last year.
The Airdopes Alpha Deadpool Edition stands out with its unique design. Packaged in a custom box featuring Deadpool and Wolverine on the front and an image of Deadpool on the back, the charging case is also adorned with Marvel Studios and Deadpool branding. It includes a USB Type-C port at the bottom. The earbuds themselves sport a red and black color scheme, showcasing Deadpool’s insignia on one earbud and the boAt logo on the other.
Features and Performance
These earbuds boast a 13mm driver, delivering Boat’s renowned sound quality. Users can enjoy up to 35 hours of playback on a single charge. The ASAPTM Charge technology enables 60 minutes of playback with just a 5-minute charge. Additionally, the earbuds feature dual microphones with ENXTM technology for clear calls, Bluetooth 5.3 for stable connectivity, and Beast Mode with a 50ms low latency for an enhanced gaming experience.
Price and Availability
The boAt Airdopes Alpha Deadpool Edition is available for Rs. 1,099 on Flipkart and Rs. 999 on boAt’s official website.
Tags: Bluetooth 5.3 LE, boAt Airdopes Alpha, Deadpool Edition
July 24, 2024
Edifier W800BT Free: Budget Headphones with 40-Hour Battery Life
Edifier has introduced the W800BT Free headphones, targeting budget-conscious users who prioritize affordability and extended battery life over advanced features like noise cancellation.
Sound Quality and Comfort
The W800BT Free is equipped with 40mm titanium-plated dynamic drivers that deliver clear audio. Users can customize the sound profile with four pre-set options: classic, pop, classical, and rock. The headphones feature soft leather earmuffs tilted at an 8-degree angle for a comfortable fit, complemented by a durable U-shaped alloy headband.
Connectivity and Features
For wireless connectivity, Edifier incorporates Bluetooth 5.4 in the W800BT Free. The headphones also include AI-powered call noise reduction, enhancing the clarity of communication during calls. Gamers will benefit from the low-latency game mode, which boasts a minimal delay of just 0.06 seconds.
Exceptional Battery Life
One of the standout features of the W800BT Free is its impressive battery life. Edifier claims up to 40 hours of playback on a single charge, making these headphones suitable for long listening sessions. Additionally, the headphones support multipoint connections, allowing users to pair them with two devices at the same time.
For those who prefer wired connections, the W800BT Free comes with a Type-C charging port.
Pricing
The Edifier W800BT Free is priced at 199 yuan (around $29 USD), offering a compelling choice for budget-conscious listeners who seek a blend of features and affordability.
Tags: Budget Headphones, Edifier W800BT Free, Long Battery Life
July 23, 2024
Edifier Comfo Clip Launches in China Priced at $43
Edifier has introduced a new product, the “Edifier Comfo Clip” Bluetooth earphone. Priced at approximately $43 (319 CNY) in China, the earphone will be available for purchase starting July 29th.
Edifier Comfo Clip
The Edifier Comfo Clip is available in two colors: Pearl White and Luminous Black. Each earbud weighs 5.8 grams and boasts an IP56 rating, ensuring resistance against water and dust.
With support for dual device connection, these earphones feature the Bluetooth 5.4 standard. They are equipped with 12mm drivers to deliver a superior audio experience. The battery life is impressive, offering up to 28 hours on a single full charge, while a quick 15-minute charge provides 2.5 hours of listening time. The model number for this new earphone is EDF200161.
Tags: Bluetooth 5.4, Edifier Comfo Clip, IP56 rating
July 23, 2024
NTT Sorority Unveils ONE Open-Ear Headphones with Noise Suppression
NTT Sorority has introduced the nwm ONE open-ear wireless headphones in Japan. This new audio device features a dual driver system and excels in active noise leakage suppression. The design of these wireless headphones allows users to remain aware of their surroundings while still enjoying an immersive surround sound experience.
Immersive Audio Experience
The nwm ONE is equipped with Sony 360 Reality Audio, providing an enveloping audio experience. It also incorporates Personalized Sound Zone technology to minimize noise leakage. The headphones boast a dual-driver system, consisting of a 35mm driver and a 12mm tweeter, which enhances noise suppression. They offer a frequency range of 40Hz to 20kHz.
Advanced Voice Technology
Utilizing NTT’s Magic Focus Voice technology, the nwm ONE employs dual MEMS microphones for beamforming and spectral voice separation to ensure clear voice quality in noisy environments. Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.3 and a USB-C cable, and the device can pair with up to eight audio devices with two active multipoint connections. It supports both the CVSD and mSBC voice codecs for calls, as well as various audio codecs for music. With Bluetooth Auracast, multiple users can listen to broadcasts in public spaces like gyms or airports.
Specifications and Pricing
Weighing 185g, the nwm ONE features a lithium battery that provides up to 20 hours of playtime on a full 1.5-hour charge. A quick five-minute charge gives up to one hour of use. Available in light gray and dark gray, the NTT Sorority nwm ONE is priced at 39,600 yen ($250) in Japan. There is no information yet on its availability in other markets.
Tags: NTT Sorority, nwm ONE, Open-ear wireless headphones