Category: Audio

  • OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z3: Supports 3D Spatial Audio, No ANC

    OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z3: Supports 3D Spatial Audio, No ANC

    Key Takeaways

    1. Design and Specifications: The OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z3 earphones maintain a similar design to the Z2, featuring 12.4mm drivers and supporting only AAC and SBC codecs, with an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance.

    2. Battery Life Improvement: Battery life has increased from 30 hours in the Z2 to 36 hours in the Z3, with a quick charge offering up to 27 hours of use after just 10 minutes of charging.

    3. Audio Features: The Z3 supports OnePlus 3D Spatial Audio and boasts enhanced call quality with AI algorithms and environmental noise cancellation (ENC), though it lacks active noise cancellation.

    4. Included Accessories: The earphones come with three sets of silicone tips (small, medium, large), but do not include a USB-C charging cable in the package.

    5. Availability: The OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z3 will primarily be available in India, with pricing yet to be announced, differing from the OnePlus Buds 4, which will launch in Europe and North America.

    Ahead of their launch on June 19, OnePlus has unveiled the full specs for the OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z3 earphones. As earlier mentioned, these new neckband-style Bluetooth earphones will feature a design quite similar to the previous model, and the product listing shows there are not many changes in the technical specifications. Nevertheless, there are still some key features that differentiate the two models.

    Specifications and Design

    The OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z3 will include 12.4mm drivers just like the Bullets Wireless Z2 and will support only AAC and SBC codecs. These earphones will boast an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance, come with an in-line remote, and be equipped with Bluetooth 5.4, which allows for Google Fast Pair support.

    Improved Battery Life

    The battery capacity stays the same at 220mAh, but the overall battery life has improved to 36 hours, an increase from the Bullets Wireless Z2’s 30 hours, and significantly better than the Beats Flex Wireless, which currently has a battery life of only 12 hours as seen on Amazon for $49.98. Users will also benefit from extended use after charging for just 10 minutes — unlike the Bullets Wireless Z2, which offered 20 hours after a quick charge, the Z3 will provide up to 27 hours. As expected, they will charge via USB-C.

    Audio Features

    OnePlus has stated that the new earphones will support OnePlus 3D Spatial Audio. Users can anticipate clear call quality thanks to cutting-edge AI algorithms and environmental noise cancellation (ENC). As previously suspected, there is no active noise cancellation included.

    The OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z3 will be packaged with three sets of silicone tips in small, medium, and large sizes. Unfortunately, OnePlus has chosen not to include a USB-C charging cable in the package. The earphones will be offered in Mambo Midnight and Samba Sunset colors when they are unveiled on June 19.

    Availability and Pricing

    Although the price for the earphones has not been disclosed yet, it appears that their availability will be primarily in India, unlike the upcoming OnePlus Buds 4, which are set to launch in Europe and North America.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: ,
  • Nothing Headphone (1) Euro Price Leak Ahead of July 1 Launch

    Nothing Headphone (1) Euro Price Leak Ahead of July 1 Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nothing is entering the over-ear headphone market with the Nothing Headphone (1) priced at €299.
    2. The headphones aim to compete with premium models like Apple AirPods Max and Sony WH-1000XM5 while being more affordable.
    3. The Nothing Headphone (1) will be available in three colors: white, gray, and black.
    4. Official reveal is scheduled for July 1, but sales may not start until September 30.
    5. The headphones will feature a unique design and tactile controls for playback and volume, focusing on superior sound quality.

    Back in May, Nothing revealed that they would be stepping into the over-ear headphone industry. The smartphone company claimed they want to beat the Apple AirPods Max while keeping the cost much lower. A reliable source, billbil-kun, has recently disclosed what seems to be the final price in euros on Dealabs.

    Pricing and Competition

    The Nothing Headphone (1) is set to retail in Europe for €299. This pricing positions the over-ear headphones as more affordable than both the AirPods Max and Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H100, while also placing them in competition with slightly older premium models like the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 and the Sony WH-1000XM5. The Nothing Headphone (1) will come in three colors: white, gray, and black. Billbil-kun also mentioned that the headphones will be officially revealed on July 1, alongside the new Nothing Phone (3).

    Delivery Timeline

    Despite the announcement date, actual delivery might take longer. Previous speculations hinted that sales might not start until September 30. In the teaser video provided, Nothing highlights that their headphones will feature a unique design that stands apart from other options on the market. The controls for playback and volume will be tactile, which is a plus, especially when compared to some brands where all buttons look alike, leading users to memorize what each does. Ultimately, the Nothing Headphone (1) is designed to deliver superior sound quality.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • OnePlus Buds 4 Global Launch Date Announced

    OnePlus Buds 4 Global Launch Date Announced

    Key Takeaways

    1. Design and Color Options: The OnePlus Buds 4 will feature a closed ear design with silicone tips for passive noise cancellation, available in green and black.

    2. Specifications and Features: The earbuds will include an 11mm woofer, 6mm tweeter, dual DACs, Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification, 55dB noise cancellation, and 3D spatial audio capabilities.

    3. Battery Life Expectations: The Buds 4 promises 11 hours of battery life on a single charge, extending to 45 hours with the case; however, battery life decreases with ANC activated.

    4. Launch Date: The OnePlus Buds 4 are set to launch on July 8 in India, Europe, North America, and the UK.

    5. Pricing Information: While the price is not confirmed globally, the earbuds are listed at CNY 449 in China, approximately $63/€54/£46.

    After its introduction in China last month, the OnePlus Buds 4 is on track for a worldwide release. OnePlus has revealed the date for the launch of this new earbuds model and shared some important information.

    Design and Color Options

    The global version of the OnePlus Buds 4 will mirror the design of its Chinese counterpart. In fact, it will come in the same color options — green and black. Featuring a closed ear design, these earbuds will include silicone tips aimed at offering passive noise cancellation. Additionally, they will sport a noticeable stem.

    Specifications and Features

    As per OnePlus, each earbud includes an 11mm woofer, a 6mm tweeter, and dual DACs. The OnePlus Buds 4 will carry a Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification, alongside LHDC 5.0 and 3D spatial audio capabilities. While more details about the specs remain unknown, we anticipate that they will be identical to the Chinese variant, including features like 55dB noise cancellation, three microphones per earbud, a low-latency gaming mode, and an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance.

    Battery Life Expectations

    The OnePlus Buds 4 promises a battery life of 11 hours on a single charge, extending to 45 hours with the charging case. However, with ANC activated, battery life is expected to reduce to 6 hours (or 5.5 hours with the LHDC codec) and a total of 24 hours (22 hours with LHDC codec) respectively. Compared to its predecessor, the OnePlus Buds 3 (which can be found on Amazon for $92), the battery life has seen a slight decrease, as the Buds 3 can last up to 6.5 hours with ANC on and a total of 28 hours including the charging case.

    The OnePlus Buds 4 will be officially launched on July 8, along with several other products, in India, Europe, North America, and the UK. There is currently no information regarding its price, but in China, they are listed at CNY 449, equivalent to about $63/€54/£46.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Pre-Order Anker Soundcore Sleep A30 Earbuds with ANC & Snore Detection

    Pre-Order Anker Soundcore Sleep A30 Earbuds with ANC & Snore Detection

    Key Takeaways

    1. Enhanced Comfort and Design: The Soundcore Sleep A30 earbuds are slimmer and have flexible wingtips for a better fit, reducing pillow pressure during sleep.

    2. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): They feature ‘smart ANC’ that can reduce low-frequency sounds by up to 30 decibels, effectively blocking disruptive noises.

    3. Snore Detection Technology: The earbuds can detect snoring in real-time and create tailored masking sounds, boasting a 93% detection accuracy.

    4. Versatile Use: Besides sleeping, the earbuds offer automatic sleep monitoring, a personal alarm, and a ‘Find My Earbud’ feature.

    5. Battery Life Comparison: The Sleep A30 lasts 9 hours with ANC on and up to 45 hours with the charging case, which is shorter than the previous model, the Sleep A20.

    Anker’s audio brand, Soundcore, has begun taking pre-orders for their new Sleep A30 earbuds, which follow the Sleep A20 that was introduced last year. The updated earbuds feature several enhancements, with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) being the standout improvement.

    Enhanced Comfort and Design

    The Soundcore Sleep A30 earbuds have been revamped to offer greater comfort compared to the previous model. While they retain the same general look, they are said to be slimmer, which may help lessen pillow pressure when you sleep on your side. These earbuds also include flexible wingtips that ensure a snug fit, along with four pairs of silicone eartips and three pairs of memory foam eartips for a personalized experience.

    Innovative Features

    Regarding features, the Soundcore Sleep A30 earbuds come equipped with active noise cancellation. According to Anker, they are dubbed ‘the world’s first smart ANC sleep earbuds.’ The Sleep A30 can diminish low-frequency sounds by as much as 30 decibels. Additionally, the combination of the earbuds’ ANC and the passive noise cancellation from the airtight seal effectively blocks out high-frequency noises that can disrupt sleep.

    Snore Detection Technology

    Besides ANC, the Soundcore Sleep A30 also offers snore detection capabilities. The information provided indicates that the charging case can detect snoring in real-time and then sends signals to the earbuds to create a masking sound tailored to the frequency, volume, and pattern of the snoring. Anker claims that the Soundcore Sleep A30 has a snore detection accuracy of 93%.

    Versatile Use

    These new earbuds are not just meant for sleep; they can also function as regular earbuds. They feature automatic sleep monitoring with location tracking, an alarm that wakes only the wearer, and a ‘Find My Earbud’ function in case they get misplaced.

    Battery Life Comparison

    The Soundcore Sleep A30 offers a battery life of 9 hours with ANC turned on, and when combined with the charging case, it provides a total of 45 hours. This means they can last for about five nights before needing a recharge. In contrast, the Soundcore Sleep A20 (currently priced at $179.99 on Amazon) offers a longer battery life of 14 hours, totaling 80 hours with the case, making the new Sleep A30 have a noticeably shorter battery life.

    Available in Classic White and Mist Green, the Soundcore Sleep A30 can be pre-ordered exclusively on Kickstarter. It is priced at €249.99 in Europe and $229 in the US. However, pre-orders can enjoy a discount of up to 40% in Europe and up to $90 in the US, bringing the prices down to €149.99 and $139 respectively. The official release is scheduled for September, with availability directly from Soundcore and on Amazon.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: ,
  • iOS 26: Third-Party Apps like Spotify Access New Apple Music Features

    iOS 26: Third-Party Apps like Spotify Access New Apple Music Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. iOS 26 introduces animated artwork on the lock screen when playing songs through Apple Music and third-party apps.
    2. The feature is currently in beta and still under development by Apple.
    3. The new API, MPMediaItemAnimatedArtwork, enables the animated visuals.
    4. Animated artwork requires both a video asset and a preview image for display.
    5. iOS 26 includes other enhancements like a Liquid Glass UI, a revamped Dynamic Clock, and built-in generative AI features.

    The new update iOS 26 brings an exciting feature that adds animated artwork to the lock screen when a song is played through Apple Music. It is noteworthy that this functionality will also be available for third-party music streaming apps, not just exclusive to Apple Music.

    Development Status

    Currently, this feature is still being developed by Apple and is available in beta. There’s no guarantee that popular streaming services like Spotify, YouTube Music, Prime Music, Deezer, and Tidal will implement this feature, but the prospects seem quite promising.

    Technical Details

    The new API, called MPMediaItemAnimatedArtwork, is responsible for showing these animated visuals. To make this work, two important elements are required: an animated video asset for the artwork and a preview image that represents the first frame. As the video loads, the preview image will serve as a temporary substitute.

    Other Features

    iOS 26 is packed with a variety of new features and enhancements in visual experience, including a fresh Liquid Glass UI, a revamped Dynamic Clock, and effects that create a three-dimensional feel. Additionally, it introduces built-in generative AI among other advancements.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: ,
  • Wave X5L Wireless Earbuds with Local Storage and Smartwatch Features

    Wave X5L Wireless Earbuds with Local Storage and Smartwatch Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Wave X5L earbuds feature a unique 1.7-inch touchscreen display for easy control and notifications.
    2. They have a storage capacity of 4GB for music and podcasts, along with a built-in AI translator supporting multiple languages.
    3. These open-back earbuds do not block outside noise but offer noise filtering for improved call quality.
    4. Battery life lasts six hours on a single charge, with a total of 24 hours using the charging case.
    5. Currently available for reservation on Kickstarter for about $80, with potential risks associated with crowdfunding.

    The Wave X5L are brand new totally wireless earbuds that boast a lot of features. Unlike many other headphones, they have a pretty big display. In fact, they come with 1.7-inch screens that have a resolution of 360 x 360 pixels.

    Touchscreen Capabilities

    This touchscreen lets users adjust the volume easily and also see notifications, set timers, use a stopwatch, and check the weather. Another cool thing is that you can control music playback or other files that are saved in the earbuds’ internal storage.

    Storage and Translation Features

    These TWS earbuds have a storage capacity of 4GB, which is enough room for a good number of songs and podcasts. Plus, Wave has included an AI translator, which could be very handy while traveling or in some work situations. This real-time translation feature is said to support many languages like English, Spanish, German, Japanese, and Thai, among a few others.

    Noise Management and Battery Life

    A key thing to note is that these are open-back earbuds; they do not passively block outside noise. But, there is noise filtering during phone calls, which should enhance the voice quality for the person on the other end. The X5L earbuds can last for six hours on a single charge, and the charging case can boost this to a total of 24 hours, according to Wave.

    These TWS earbuds are currently seeking funding on Kickstarter, where you can reserve a pair for about $80. This is different from a normal purchase or preorder, so keep in mind the usual risks that come with crowdfunding. For comparison, other standard ANC earbuds in this price range are Anker’s Soundcore Liberty 4, which you can find starting at $89 on Amazon.

    Source:
    Link

    Wave X5L Wireless Earbuds with Local Storage and Smartwatch Features

     

    Tags: ,
  • Xiaomi Sound Party: New Bluetooth Speaker with Lights & Power Bank

    Xiaomi Sound Party: New Bluetooth Speaker with Lights & Power Bank

    Key Takeaways

    1. Product Introduction: Xiaomi has launched a new portable speaker called the Xiaomi Sound Party, which is expected to be available soon in popular markets.

    2. Audio Performance: The speaker delivers an impressive audio output of 50 watts, with 15 watts for the tweeter and 35 watts for the woofer, and supports stereo sound when two units are paired.

    3. Quick Charging and Battery Life: It features a 37.96 Wh battery that charges in just 10 minutes for two hours of playback and can last up to 26 hours at half volume with lights off.

    4. Connectivity Options: The speaker uses Bluetooth 5.4 for easy pairing and also supports NFC for quicker connections to audio devices.

    5. Durable and Portable Design: The Xiaomi Sound Party has an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, with a compact size of 255 x 92 x 92 mm and a weight of about 1,200 grams.

    Xiaomi is known for its variety of portable speakers, and now they’re introducing a new one called the Xiaomi Sound Party. Although there’s no exact word on its price or when it will be available, it’s already shown up on Xiaomi’s global site, which hints that it might soon hit markets where Xiaomi products are popular. This speaker is designed for mobility and can connect to audio devices using Bluetooth 5.4. Users can easily pair it, and if they want, they can use NFC for a quicker connection.

    Impressive Audio Output

    The speaker boasts an audio output of 50 watts, breaking down into 15 watts for the tweeter and 35 watts for the woofer—these numbers likely represent the maximum output. You can enhance the experience even more by linking two Xiaomi Sound Party speakers together to enjoy true stereo sound. It comes with a battery that has a capacity of 37.96 Wh, allowing it to be charged in just 10 minutes for two hours of music playback. Plus, this speaker can also function as a power bank. When it comes to battery life, it can last up to 26 hours, but that’s at half volume and with the lights turned off.

    Portable and Durable Design

    The speaker is identified by the model number MDZ-39-DB and has dimensions of 255 x 92 x 92 millimeters, weighing in at about 1,200 grams. It’s designed to be resilient, sporting IP67 protection against dust and water damage. Additionally, it features vibrant 3D lighting that syncs with the music’s rhythm, enhancing the overall listening experience.

    Source:
    Link

    Xiaomi Sound Party: New Bluetooth Speaker with Lights & Power Bank

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Rode Launches NTH-50 Headphones for Professional Audio Work

    Rode Launches NTH-50 Headphones for Professional Audio Work

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Rode NTH-50 headphones are designed for audio professionals, focusing on comfort and sound fidelity.
    2. They feature a 40 mm dynamic driver with -21 dB passive noise isolation and a wide frequency range of 5 Hz to 35 KHz.
    3. Comfort is enhanced with memory foam earcups and a contoured headband, making them suitable for long use.
    4. The headphones come with a detachable coiled cable that is compatible with both 3.5 mm and 1/4-inch jacks.
    5. Priced at $99, the NTH-50 includes a lifetime warranty and replaceable major parts.

    Rode has introduced the NTH-50 on-ear headphones tailored for pros involved in audio production, mixing, and monitoring, emphasizing comfort and precise sound fidelity. The on-ear configuration allows users to comfortably wear eyeglasses or sunglasses without any hassle.

    Design and Sound Quality

    Equipped with a 40 mm dynamic driver, the closed-ear design of these headphones offers -21 dB of passive noise isolation. They are crafted to deliver music with high accuracy and minimal distortion across a frequency range of 5 Hz to 35 KHz, even at high volumes reaching 100 dB (with a total harmonic distortion of 0.05% at 100 Hz) and peaking at 124 dB. The NTH-50 boasts an impedance of 32 ohms and a sensitivity rating of 117 dB SPL at 1 V RMS.

    Comfort and Build

    Weighing in at 7.8 oz. (220 g), the Rode NTH-50 features a 5.6 ft. (1.7 m) coiled, detachable headphone cable that can be connected to either earcup. This cable is compatible with 3.5 mm and 1/4-inch jacks, thanks to the adapter provided.

    The headphones are designed with memory foam earcups and a contoured headband that sits comfortably on the head for long periods of use. They also come with a lifetime warranty, and major parts can be replaced as they wear over time.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags:
  • Huawei FreeBuds 6 Launches Rose Gold Color with Limited Discount

    Huawei FreeBuds 6 Launches Rose Gold Color with Limited Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Huawei FreeBuds 6 were launched in Europe after being available in China and come in four colors, including a new rose gold option.
    2. The rose gold variant is currently priced at CNY 949 (~$132/€115) with a special offer, matching the price of the other colors.
    3. The earbuds feature Bluetooth 5.2, LDAC support, Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification, and are compatible with various devices, including Android and iOS.
    4. The FreeBuds 6 have an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, dual magnetic drivers, and active noise cancellation.
    5. Battery life is up to 6 hours without ANC and 4.5 hours with it; total usage with the charging case can reach 36 hours without ANC and 27 hours with it.

    The Huawei FreeBuds 6 earbuds were introduced in Europe last month, but they had already been available for purchase in China prior to that. Initially revealed in March, the earbuds came in Starry Black, Aurora Purple, and Sky White, and now Huawei has added a fourth color option.

    New Color Introduction

    The new addition is a rose gold hue, reminiscent of the Sand Gold color of the Redmi Note 14. At this moment, this color is only available in China, and it is priced the same as the other three colors. There is even a special offer that reduces the cost to CNY 949 (~$132/€115) from the original price of CNY 999 (~$139/€121). Besides the new color, the Rose Gold variant maintains all the features found in the other options.

    Features and Specifications

    The uniquely designed FreeBuds 6 earbuds come equipped with Bluetooth 5.2, LDAC support, and are certified for Hi-Res Audio Wireless. They are compatible not only with Huawei devices but also with Android and iOS gadgets. The earbuds have an IP54 rating, meaning they are both dust and water-resistant. Additionally, they feature dual magnetic drivers and active noise cancellation.

    Battery Life and Charging

    The Huawei FreeBuds 6 offer a battery life of up to 6 hours without ANC and 4.5 hours when ANC is enabled. Using the charging case, total battery life extends to 36 hours without ANC and 27 hours with it activated. Fast charging is also available; a quick 5-minute charge can provide as much as 2.5 hours of listening time.

    If the new color doesn’t interest you, now might be a perfect opportunity to grab one of the other colors, which are currently priced at €145.16 on Amazon—about €14 less than their launch price of €159 from less than a month ago.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Bose Enhances QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds with Flagship ANC

    Bose Enhances QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds with Flagship ANC

    Key Takeaways

    1. The updated QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2 earbuds now include advanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology, addressing a key feature missing in the original model.
    2. The new QuietMode effectively reduces surrounding noises, while the Aware Mode allows users to hear their environment more clearly.
    3. CustomTune technology personalizes audio output based on the shape of the user’s ear canal, enhancing sound quality.
    4. The earbuds feature a four-microphone array for improved call quality and offer new functionalities like spatial audio and multipoint Bluetooth connectivity.
    5. With a price of 299 US Dollars, the earbuds provide up to 6 hours of playback on a full charge, plus an additional 18 hours with the charging case, and support Qi wireless charging.

    Bose has introduced an updated version of its QuietComfort Ultra TWS earbuds, addressing a key feature that was previously absent. While the original QuietComfort Ultra was a high-end option, it did not include the crucial ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) capability. The new model, however, now incorporates advanced ANC technology.

    Enhanced Noise Cancellation Technology

    The QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2 is an upgrade over the first generation, which debuted in early 2024. Although they offered impressive sound quality, the absence of noise cancellation was a significant drawback for many consumers, especially considering their high price. The revamped QuietComfort Ultra now boasts what seems to be Bose’s top ANC system. The newly introduced Quiet Mode effectively diminishes surrounding noises, while the Aware Mode allows for a more transparent listening experience.

    Personalization and Connectivity Features

    Bose’s latest flagship earbuds feature CustomTune, which enables users to tailor the sound through the Bose app. This technology assesses the shape of the ear canal to adjust audio output specifically for each user. The updated QuietComfort Ultra also includes a four-microphone array for enhanced call quality. Additionally, it offers new functionalities such as spatial audio, multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, and compatibility with audio codecs like SBC, AAC, and Qualcomm aptX Adaptive.

    On a complete charge, the earbuds can deliver up to 6 hours of playback time, with the charging case providing an extra 18 hours. The new QuietComfort Ultra also supports Qi wireless charging. Priced at 299 US Dollars, they are available in three colors: white, black, and red.

    Tags: ,