Category: Audio

June 30, 2025
Xiaomi Soundbar Pro 2.0: New Award-Winning Model Launches Globally
Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi is set to launch the Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch globally, following the introduction of the Soundbar Pro 2.1 ch.
2. The Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch features a two-channel design with four drivers and supports Dolby Audio, offering six audio modes.
3. It includes multiple connectivity options such as HDMI (ARC), Coaxial, Optical, and NFC for Bluetooth connections.
4. The soundbar has a sleek metallic design and dimensions of 840 × 87 × 60 mm, weighing approximately 2,300 g.
5. Pricing and availability details for the Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch are currently unknown, while the previous model is priced at €59.99 in Germany.
Xiaomi has added the Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch to its global website, hinting at an upcoming launch in various international markets. This announcement comes shortly after the introduction of the more robust Xiaomi Soundbar Pro 2.1 ch.
Design and Features
The Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch is tailored for TV use, with a frequency range of 50 to 20kHz and a maximum output of 84W; in contrast, the Soundbar Pro 2.1 ch offers a peak power of 300W. This two-channel speaker features four drivers: two mid-bass speakers and two tweeters. Similar to its 2.1 ch counterpart, it includes support for Dolby Audio, though it does not provide DTS Digital Surround. Users can select from six different audio modes, including Film, Game, and Music modes.
Connectivity Options
Xiaomi’s latest soundbar is equipped with NFC for quick smartphone connections via Bluetooth. Additionally, users can connect devices through several physical inputs like HDMI (ARC), Coaxial, and Optical. It also comes with a smart remote control, and the exterior boasts a sleek metallic finish. The dimensions of this speaker are 840 × 87 × 60 mm (~33.1 x 3.4 x 2.4 inches), and it weighs roughly 2,300 g (~5.1 lbs). The Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch has also been recognized with a 2025 Red Dot Design Award, just like the 2.1 ch model.
Pricing and Availability
At this point, it’s not clear when the Xiaomi Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch will officially be available or what its price tag will be. Meanwhile, the previous Xiaomi Soundbar 2.0ch model is currently for sale in European countries such as Germany, where it is priced at €59.99.
Source:
Link
Tags: Bluetooth connectivity, Dolby Audio
June 30, 2025
Nothing Headphone (1) Leaks: 80 Hours Battery, Spatial Audio & More
Key Takeaways
1. Design and Appearance: The Nothing Headphone (1) has a unique design that stands out but lacks innovative internal components.
2. Audio Features: It features 40mm dynamic drivers, adaptive bass enhancement, spatial audio, and active noise cancellation (ANC) up to 42db.
3. Microphone and Connectivity: The headphones support Bluetooth 5.3, spatial audio, wear detection, and can connect to two devices simultaneously, but lack detailed information on their microphones.
4. Battery Life: Offers up to 80 hours of playback without ANC, 35 hours with ANC on, and quick charging provides 5 hours of playback after just 5 minutes of charging.
5. Compatibility and Dimensions: Compatible with the Nothing X app for easy control, dimensions are 173.85 x 78 x 189.25 mm, and it weighs 329 grams, available in three colors.
After revealing several TWS earbuds, Nothing is set to release its first over-ear headphones on July 1. Named the Nothing Headphone (1), details about the technical specs of these headphones have been leaked.
Design and Appearance
The design of the Nothing Headphone (1) isn’t a mystery anymore, thanks to leaked renders, images from certification bodies, and real-world pictures. True to Nothing’s style, the headphones stand out from traditional designs. However, the internal components of the Headphone (1) are not particularly groundbreaking.
Audio Features
According to Android Headlines, the Nothing Headphone (1) will feature 40mm dynamic drivers equipped with nickel-coated diaphragms. The audio tuning is done by KEF, a British audio firm that Nothing announced a partnership with a few months ago. Additionally, the headphones will offer adaptive bass enhancement, spatial audio, and an 8-band custom EQ.
Moreover, the new headphones will come with active noise cancellation (ANC) that can adapt up to 42db. They will also include a transparency mode, useful for when you need to be aware of your environment.
Microphone and Connectivity
Interestingly, there is no information available regarding the number of microphones on the headphones. They also appear to lack a noise-canceling processor similar to the Sony WH-1000XM6, which is priced at $449.99 on Amazon. Despite this, the Nothing Headphone (1) will support spatial audio, wear detection, as well as AAC, SBC, and LDAC codecs.
The Headphone (1) will utilize Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless connectivity with Android and Windows devices, thanks to support for Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair. Additionally, they will allow simultaneous connection to two devices. The leaked specifications also reference a “low lag mode” which should be beneficial for gaming. Users will also have the ability to create a personalized sound profile and locate the headphones through Google Find My Device.
Battery Life
With a 1,040mAh battery capacity, the Nothing Headphone (1) can deliver up to 80 hours of listening time on a single charge with ANC disabled, using AAC. While this is impressive, it’s still 20 hours less than the battery life of the Marshal Monitor III ANC headphones.
When ANC is activated, the battery life of Nothing’s headphones reduces to 35 hours. However, if using LDAC, the battery life with ANC off is 54 hours, and 30 hours with ANC on. A quick 5-minute charge will provide up to 5 hours of playback (with ANC off) when the battery runs low.
Compatibility and Dimensions
The Nothing Headphone (1) will be compatible with the Nothing X app, and users with a Nothing phone can adjust settings and EQ bands through the controls in the phone’s Settings app. The dimensions of the Headphone (1) are 173.85 x 78 x 189.25 mm, and it weighs 329 grams. There will also be a case measuring 230 x 220 x 52 mm with a weight of 264 grams.
The Nothing Headphone (1) is anticipated to launch in three colors and will be available in Europe, Asia, and North America.
Source:
Link
Tags: ANC, Bluetooth 5.3, Nothing Headphone (1)
June 29, 2025
Earbuds from JBL, Sony, and Others Can Spy on You
Key Takeaways
1. Critical vulnerabilities exist in Bluetooth audio chips from Airoha, affecting various well-known brands like Sony and Bose.
2. An unsecured custom protocol allows nearby attackers to access devices without pairing or authentication, enabling full control.
3. Demonstrated proof-of-concept attacks show that attackers can hijack connections between headphones and smartphones.
4. Immediate risk to average consumers is low, but high-profile individuals may be significantly endangered.
5. Airoha has released a patched SDK, but it is up to individual brands to implement and distribute firmware updates for affected products.
A report released on June 26 by the German security company Ernw highlights critical vulnerabilities in widely-used Bluetooth audio chips from the Taiwanese supplier Airoha. These issues affect a wide array of products, ranging from high-end noise-canceling headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM series and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds to offerings from Jabra, Beyerdynamic, and JBL.
Major Security Concerns
The primary problem stems from an unsecured custom protocol. An attacker positioned within Bluetooth range—approximately 10 meters—can exploit this protocol without needing to pair with the targeted device or having any prior authentication. This access allows them to read and write to the device’s memory and flash storage, effectively seizing complete control.
Proof-of-Concept Attacks
In a demonstration, researchers revealed several concerning attack scenarios. The most severe one involves taking over the trusted connection between headphones and a smartphone. By extracting Bluetooth link keys from the headphones, an attacker can mimic the headset to the phone and then use the Hands-Free Profile (HFP) to manipulate the phone.
Although Ernw believes that all devices utilizing the affected Airoha chips are at risk, it has only tested and confirmed this on a select group of devices. Below is the full list of verified devices:
The researchers emphasize that, for the average consumer, the immediate risk is minimal. Carrying out such an attack demands substantial technical expertise and close physical proximity to the target. Nonetheless, they caution that this poses a significant threat to high-profile individuals such as journalists, diplomats, and corporate leaders.
Manufacturer Response
Airoha released a patched software development kit (SDK) to manufacturers in the first week of June. However, it is now the responsibility of individual brands like Sony and Bose to create and distribute firmware updates for each affected product.
It is nearly impossible for Ernw to examine every suspected device, so individuals must take it upon themselves to research the products they own. The Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro (currently priced at $189.99 on Amazon) is one example of earbuds that remain unaffected.
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Link
June 28, 2025
Maxell Launches Bluetooth Compact Cassette Player with USB-C
Key Takeaways
1. Dimensions and Portability: The Maxell MXCP-P100 measures 4.8 x 3.6 inches and is 1.5 inches thick, weighing 7.4 oz, making it easy to carry.
2. Limited Features: It plays only stereo tapes up to C90 with no Dolby Noise Reduction, focusing on ease of use rather than advanced sound quality.
3. Bluetooth Connectivity: The player features Bluetooth 5.4 for wireless headphones and a standard 3.5mm headphone jack, with a maximum output of 1 mW.
4. Battery Life: The battery lasts between seven to nine hours, depending on the use of Bluetooth or wired headphones, and charges via USB-C.
5. Pricing and Availability: Priced at approximately $89 in Japan, the player is not yet available internationally but can be imported, likely making it more affordable than similar models.
The newly released Maxell MXCP-P100 has dimensions of 4.8 x 3.6 inches, making it about 0.6 inches wider and 1.1 inches taller than a standard compact cassette. It is 1.5 inches thick, weighing in at 7.4 oz, which should make it easy to carry in most pockets.
Limited Features
Like many modern cassette players, the features of the MXCP-P100 are not as extensive as those found in older, high-end models. It can only play stereo tapes up to C90, offering a playback duration of up to 45 minutes on each side. The manufacturer has stated that it’s compatible solely with Type 1 cassettes, and features such as Dolby Noise Reduction are not included. This model seems aimed at users who prioritize ease of use over sound quality. However, it does come with a brass flywheel to maintain steady playback speed.
Bluetooth Connectivity
For those interested, the Maxell MXCP-P100 includes Bluetooth 5.4 for pairing with wireless headphones, in addition to the standard 3.5mm headphone jack. The headphone jack provides an output of just 1 mW, which is only adequate for less demanding headphone models. The device’s battery life ranges from seven to nine hours, depending on whether Bluetooth or wired headphones are utilized. It charges via USB-C at a maximum power of 5 watts.
Pricing and Availability
In Japan, the cost of the Maxell MXCP-P100 is ¥13,000, approximately $89 as of now. Although Maxell has not announced any international release plans, it should be possible to purchase it through import services on websites like Zenmarket. Even factoring in shipping and import costs, this player is likely to be more affordable than the We Are Rewind, which is currently priced at $159 on Amazon.
Source:
Link

Tags: Bluetooth 5.4
June 28, 2025
Gaudio Studio Launches: Extract Vocal and Instrument Stems Easily
Key Takeaways
1. Gaudio Studio Launch: Gaudio Lab has introduced Gaudio Studio, an app for Android and Apple smartphones that uses GSEP AI technology to separate songs into vocal and instrumental parts.
2. Background Noise Reduction: The app features background noise reduction, allowing users to isolate vocals from ambient sounds and adjust volume levels for remixing.
3. Individual Stem Separation: Gaudio Studio can separate music into individual stems like vocals, bass, drums, and more, facilitating remixes and performances.
4. Pricing Structure: The app offers a 20-minute free trial, with paid credits available for extended usage: 50 minutes for $7, 200 minutes for $16, and 1000 minutes for $50.
5. Quality Considerations: High-quality recordings are essential, as the app cannot fix poorly recorded vocals; investing in a good microphone is recommended.
Gaudio Lab has launched Gaudio Studio for both Android and Apple smartphones. This app employs the company’s unique GSEP (Gaudio source SEParation) AI technology to split songs into separate vocal and instrumental components. This functionality enables musicians to listen to and utilize the specific parts they desire for their remixes or live performances.
Background Noise Reduction
One of the core features of Gaudio Studio is its ability to reduce background noise. The AI-driven application understands the characteristics of human voice, allowing it to effectively distinguish vocals from ambient sounds. Users have the option to tweak the volume levels of the isolated tracks, enabling them to create remixes that highlight the vocals while either eliminating or retaining various background noises.
Individual Stem Separation
The standout capability of this app is its proficiency in breaking down music into distinct stems. The GSEP AI can detect elements such as vocals, bass, drums, electric guitar, and piano within a track, and it separates these components into individual audio tracks. These tracks can be utilized for remixes or for engaging follow-along performances.
Pricing and Usage
The app provides a complimentary 20-minute trial period, after which users need to purchase credits to continue using it. Users can add 50 minutes for $7, 200 minutes for $16, and 1000 minutes for $50. In all scenarios, the maximum duration for a song meant for vocal removal is limited to ten minutes. It supports recordings in several formats, including MP3 and MP4 files, as well as YouTube links. During the trial phase, users can export processed stems as MP3 files, while WAV output is accessible in the paid version.
It’s important to note that even the most advanced AI tools cannot fix poorly recorded vocals, so investing in a quality microphone (like the one available for the iPhone on Amazon) is essential for capturing high-quality performances.
Source:
Link
June 27, 2025
AirPods Pro 3 Found in Bluetooth Code, Launch Imminent
Key Takeaways
1. Apple may be developing AirPods Pro 3, indicated by a new identifier ‘8239’ found in their codebase.
2. The new identifier does not match existing AirPods or Beats models, suggesting a possible launch soon.
3. There’s a chance the identifier could relate to a refresh of a Beats product, so the information should be taken cautiously.
4. Anticipated features for AirPods Pro 3 may include infrared cameras, AI capabilities, and improved design and audio quality.
5. The AirPods Pro 3 could be revealed alongside the iPhone 17 series and might offer enhanced health-related features.
Apple introduced the first-generation AirPods Pro back in October 2019, followed by an update in September 2022. Since that update, there hasn’t been any new version of these true wireless earbuds. However, a recent leak indicates that the AirPods Pro 3 might be on their way, possibly nearing their release. Importantly, Apple has not yet provided any details regarding the next iteration of the AirPods Pro earbuds.
New Identifier Found
According to a report from Macrumors, Apple has made changes to its codebase, adding a new identifier that is thought to belong to the AirPods Pro 3. The company utilizes Bluetooth ID numbers for its AirPods and Beats headphones. The report mentions that the device syncing codebase has received a new identifier, ‘8239.’ This identifier does not match any current AirPods or Beats models, hinting that the new AirPods Pro 3 are under development and might be close to being launched.
Possible Beats Connection
While the report suggests that this new identifier likely pertains to the AirPods Pro 3, it also raises the possibility that it could be related to a refresh of a Beats product. Therefore, it’s wise to take this information with a grain of salt.
Anticipated Features
As previously noted, Apple hasn’t disclosed any specifics about the AirPods Pro 3. However, there are rumors that they may be revealed this year, possibly alongside the iPhone 17 series. Speculation also suggests that the upcoming models might include infrared (IR) cameras and utilize AI to “understand the outside world and provide information to the user,” as stated by Mark Gurman via 9to5Mac.
The AirPods Pro 3 are expected to be a significant improvement over the nearly three-year-old AirPods Pro 2. They might offer a sleeker design, enhanced active noise cancellation (ANC), and better audio quality. Given that the AirPods Pro 2 introduced a Hearing Aid feature, it is likely that the new models will include even more health-related capabilities.
Source:
Link
Tags: AirPods Pro 3, Apple
June 27, 2025
Samsung Galaxy Buds Core Launch: Great Price & Limited Stock
Key Takeaways
1. Samsung has announced the Galaxy Buds Core, available only in India and the UAE as of June 27, 2025.
2. There is confusion about Bluetooth specifications, with the UAE version supporting Bluetooth 5.4 and Amazon.in listing them as Bluetooth 5.3.
3. The Buds Core claim up to 35 hours of battery life without active noise cancellation (ANC) and 20 hours with it on.
4. The earbuds feature a 3-microphone system for improved call quality, though the effectiveness of noise cancellation is not specified.
5. Designed with an IP54 rating and available in Black and White, the Buds Core are priced at INR 9,999 but are currently offered at a promotional price of INR 4,999.
Samsung has officially announced the Galaxy Buds Core today, on June 27, 2025. Currently, they are only for sale in India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Conflicting Bluetooth Ratings
There seems to be a bit of confusion regarding the Bluetooth specifications. While the UAE version is said to support Bluetooth 5.4 (including A2DP, AVRCP, and HFP), Amazon.in lists them as Bluetooth 5.3 accessories. Regardless, both versions are claimed to offer up to 35 hours of battery life when active noise cancellation (ANC) is turned off, or 20 hours with it on.
Noise Cancellation and Call Quality
Samsung hasn’t specified how effective the noise cancellation is, but they claim that the Buds Core will provide “crystal clear calls” thanks to their 3-microphone system. This suggests that even in noisy environments, users can expect good call quality.
Design and Pricing
The new Galaxy Buds are designed with an IP54 rating and resemble the Buds FE, available in two “classic colors”: Black and White. In India, they are introduced with a suggested retail price of INR 9,999 (approximately $117), which is higher than the current prices of their FE models on Amazon.com. However, to make them more appealing, they are being offered at a 50% discount, bringing the price down to INR 4,999 (around $59), making them the most affordable new Galaxy Buds available at this moment.
Source:
Link
Tags: Bluetooth 5.4
June 27, 2025
Insta360 Mic Air: Affordable Alternative to DJI Mic Mini
Key Takeaways
1. The Insta360 Mic Air is a lightweight wireless microphone weighing just 7.9 grams, featuring 48kHz sampling and smart noise cancellation.
2. It offers connectivity options, including a USB-C receiver for smartphones, tablets, and computers, and direct connection to the Insta360 X5 and Ace Pro 2 without a receiver.
3. The microphone has a transmission range of up to 300 meters and a battery life of up to 10 hours, with a magnet clip for easy attachment to clothing.
4. The pricing is competitive, at $49.99 for the transmitter alone and $69.99 for the transmitter with a receiver, making it more affordable than the DJI Mic Mini.
5. Insta360 plans to expand compatibility with more camera models in the future.
Insta360 has stepped into the realm of wireless microphones with the unveiling of the Mic Air. This new microphone aims to compete with others in the market, including the DJI Mic Mini.
Design and Features
Weighing in at just 7.9 grams, the Insta360 Mic Air features a design similar to a coin and supports 48kHz sampling. It includes smart noise cancellation and a windshield to enhance audio clarity. Users can easily manage noise cancellation, mute the transmitter, or start video recording using physical controls.
Connectivity Options
You can buy the Mic Air by itself or with a receiver that comes with a USB-C connector, allowing it to connect to smartphones, tablets, or computers. At the moment, if you own the Insta360 X5 or the Insta360 Ace Pro 2, you won’t need a receiver since the Mic Air connects directly to these devices. Insta360 has also mentioned that they plan to support more camera models down the line.
Performance and Pricing
The receiver supports passthrough charging and offers a transmission range of up to 300 meters in open areas with no barriers. The transmitter can last for up to 10 hours on one charge and can be worn around your neck or attached to clothing with the included magnet clip.
The cost of the Insta360 Mic Air is $49.99 for just the transmitter, while the package with a receiver is priced at $69.99. This is more affordable compared to the DJI Mic Mini, which retails for $59 without a receiver and $89 with one. You can purchase the Insta360 Mic Air right now from Insta360’s website or Amazon.
Source:
Link
Tags: DJI Mic Mini, Wireless Microphone
June 26, 2025
Xiaomi Open Earphones Pro Launch: Premium Build & Harman Tuning
Key Takeaways
1. Enhanced Audio Quality: The Open Earphones Pro feature Harman Master Tuning and Hi-Res Audio Wireless Gold certification, enabling HD sound quality up to 96 kHz.
2. Innovative Design Features: The earphones include a 5-unit system with an 18x13mm main driver for improved bass and a piezoelectric ceramic tweeter for clear high frequencies, along with a sleek titanium loop and IP54 water resistance.
3. Long Battery Life: They offer up to 45 hours of battery life on a single charge.
4. Smart Features: The earphones support on-board recording and translation capabilities.
5. Pricing and Availability: Priced at 999 yuan (approximately $140) in China, the earphones come in white, black, or gold color options.
Xiaomi has introduced its newest Open Earphones today (June 26, 2025) during an exciting event that also unveiled other high-end products like the Redmi K80 Ultra and Mix Flip 2.
Enhanced Audio Quality
The new Pro version gets its name from the Harman Master Tuning that is absent in the previous OpenWear Stereo models. It also boasts a Hi-Res Audio Wireless Gold certification, allowing it to transmit audio at an impressive rate of up to 96 kilohertz (kHz) for “HD” quality sound.
Innovative Design Features
Equipped with a “5-unit” system, these earphones feature a larger 18x13mm main driver, which is designed to provide better bass response. Additionally, there’s a piezoelectric ceramic tweeter included for producing “clear and detailed” high frequencies.
The Open Earphones Pro are designed to be sleek and modern, featuring an upgraded “aviation-grade” titanium loop that helps keep them securely in place on the outer ear. They also come with an official IP54 rating, making them resistant to light splashes.
Long Battery Life and Smart Features
These earphones are claimed to offer an impressive battery life of up to 45 hours on a single charge. They also support various smart features, including on-board recording and translation capabilities.
However, they are equipped with Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, while other recent (and more affordable) models, including open ones, have transitioned to the newer 6.0 standard.
Xiaomi has priced the Open Earphones Pro at 999 yuan (approximately $140) in China, and they are available in white, black, or gold color options.
Source:
Link
Tags: Redmi K80 Ultra, Xiaomi
June 26, 2025
Cheapest Samsung Galaxy Buds Official Store Listing Before Launch
Key Takeaways
1. Galaxy Buds Core launching on June 27, 2025, as Samsung’s budget-friendly wireless earbuds.
2. Design similar to Buds FE, available in white and black, with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) capabilities.
3. Battery life of up to 35 hours without ANC and around 20 hours with ANC activated.
4. Supports AAC, SBC, and SSC audio codecs, features Bluetooth 5.4, and multipoint connectivity.
5. Emphasizes sound quality with “well-tuned bass,” a three-microphone system for calls, IP54 rating, touch controls, and expected retail price around $60.
Samsung is preparing to launch its most budget-friendly wireless earbuds, the Galaxy Buds Core. Scheduled for release on June 27, 2025, these earbuds have already appeared on Samsung’s official UAE online store. This listing has provided key details about the upcoming product.
Design and Features
According to the listing, the Galaxy Buds Core will sport a design similar to the Buds FE and come in white and black color choices. Additionally, it mentions that the earbuds will include Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). However, since they are aimed at a more affordable market, their noise-canceling abilities may not match those of the Buds FE or the Buds 3 Pro.
Battery Life and Performance
Interestingly, the listing highlights that the Galaxy Buds Core can boast a total battery life of up to 35 hours when ANC is off. This runtime surpasses that of the premium Buds 3 Pro (currently priced at $189.99 on Amazon), which can last up to 30 hours without ANC activated. With ANC engaged, the new earbuds are expected to provide around 20 hours of use.
The Samsung UAE store also indicates that the Galaxy Buds Core will support AAC, SBC, and SSC audio codecs. For wireless connectivity, they will utilize Bluetooth 5.4 and offer multipoint support.
Audio Quality and Additional Features
In terms of sound quality, the webpage emphasizes that these affordable earbuds are designed to deliver “well-tunned bass” and “clear trebles.” The Buds Core are also said to come equipped with a three-microphone system for improved call clarity.
Other important features highlighted in the listing include IP54 dust and water resistance, touch controls, and a design aimed at providing “all-day comfort.” While Samsung has not yet disclosed the exact price of the Galaxy Buds Core, they are anticipated to retail for around $60.
Source:
Link
Tags: Galaxy Buds Core, Samsung, wireless earbuds