Category: Audio

  • Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 & Buds 3 Pro Pass BIS Certification Pre-Launch

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 & Buds 3 Pro Pass BIS Certification Pre-Launch

    Samsung is gearing up to enhance its audio lineup with the release of the Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. These new models are expected to debut at the forthcoming Unpacked event, alongside the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Z Fold 6. The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro was recently leaked, showcasing a design overhaul. Moreover, a recent certification by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) confirms that these earbuds will soon be available in India, following their global launch.

    The BIS certification lists the devices with model numbers SM-R630 for the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and SM-R530 for the Galaxy Buds 3. While the listing does not provide specific details regarding the features or specifications, it does suggest that an Indian release is imminent.

    Design Overhaul

    Samsung appears to be moving away from the previous bean-shaped design, opting instead for a stem design. This change aligns the new Buds more closely with competitors like Apple’s AirPods and OnePlus Buds. The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro will feature a dual-driver design and support Bluetooth 5.4, enhancing audio performance. Additionally, the Pro version will come with an IP57 rating, ensuring resistance to water and dust, and is expected to offer up to 30 hours of battery life.

    Anticipated Features

    As the Galaxy Buds 3 series begins to appear on more certification websites, more details about their features and specifications are likely to emerge. For now, let’s examine the specifications and features of the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro to get a sense of what to expect from its successor.

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Specs

    The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro boasts silicone ear tips for a secure fit and effective noise isolation. These earbuds come equipped with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that reduces ambient noise by up to 33dB and include a transparency mode. They support Bluetooth 5.3 and have an IPX7 rating for water resistance.

    With 10mm drivers and 24-bit Hi-Fi sound, the Buds 2 Pro deliver clear and rich audio. The earbuds also support 360-degree audio and Dolby Head Tracking for a more immersive listening experience. Three microphones (two external, one internal) ensure clear calls and minimize background noise.

    The Voice Detect feature switches the earbuds from ANC to Ambient Mode when you start speaking to someone. According to Samsung, the earbuds can last up to 8 hours on a single charge without ANC, and up to 29 hours total with the charging case. They support USB-C and wireless charging, offering about 55 minutes of listening time with just a five-minute charge.

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 & Buds 3 Pro Pass BIS Certification Pre-Launch
    Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 & Buds 3 Pro Pass BIS Certification Pre-Launch
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  • Spotify to Charge $5 More Monthly for Premium Hi-Fi Audio Feature

    Spotify to Charge $5 More Monthly for Premium Hi-Fi Audio Feature

    Spotify is reportedly close to introducing a high-fidelity audio add-on for its streaming service, according to a Bloomberg report. This new premium tier is expected to cost an additional $5 per month and will come with several new features, aside from the enhanced audio quality.

    Existing Spotify Premium subscribers will have the option to integrate the HiFi tier into their current plan, resulting in a total monthly cost of $16.99, considering the upcoming base price increase to $11.99 for Premium. According to Bloomberg, this add-on will also feature playlist creation tools tailored for specific activities, dates, or seasons. Although Spotify had initially announced its HiFi audio plans for 2021, the launch was never realized. Since then, there have been various speculations regarding this premium tier. Last year, Bloomberg mentioned a potential “Supremium” HiFi plan at a higher price, while The Wall Street Journal indicated that the add-on might include a remix feature that allows users to adjust playback speed.

    Features and Leaks

    In 2023, code discovered within the Spotify app provided additional hints about the potential features of the HiFi add-on. This leaked code suggested the inclusion of 24-bit lossless audio, AI-driven playlist creation, and a mood-based song filtering tool for playlists. More recently, a Reddit user found code mentioning “lossless has arrived” within the app. Another user later shared leaked UI elements that referenced lossless quality reaching up to 2,117kbps and the availability of 24-bit/44.1kHz for certain songs using the FLAC audio format.

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  • CMF Buds 2, Watch Pro 2 Teased for Launch with Phone 1

    CMF Buds 2, Watch Pro 2 Teased for Launch with Phone 1

    Last week, CMF confirmed the launch of its Phone 1 smartphone, which will feature an Orange leather back panel and a smart dial. Leaks and rumors have shed light on some key aspects of the device. Recently, the Nothing sub-brand shared a 15-second teaser video on its X handle, titled ‘Reinventing the Wheel,’ which references the smart dial. The teaser remains quite cryptic, keeping us guessing about what CMF has in store.

    CMF Watch and Buds Also Teased for Launch

    The teaser showcases three dials rotating slowly, seemingly belonging to different devices. The first device is clearly the CMF Phone 1, confirmed to have a dial at the bottom right side of its back panel. A noticeable screw under the dial suggests it could double as a lanyard, hinting at additional functionalities. The teaser also reveals that the upcoming phone will be available in Matte Black, alongside the previously confirmed Orange.

    The second product in the teaser likely represents the CMF Buds 2, as its dial resembles that of its predecessor. Meanwhile, the third device could very well be the CMF Watch Pro 2, featuring a rotating dial. This suggests that the dial can be replaced to customize the smartwatch’s appearance. We can anticipate more details about these upcoming products from the Nothing sub-brand in the coming days, hopefully with less ambiguity.

    Expected Specifications and Pricing

    According to leaks, the CMF Phone 1 is expected to come with a 6.7-inch 120Hz OLED display, a 50MP rear camera, and a 16MP front camera. The device will reportedly be powered by a Dimensity 7200 SoC and is tipped to have a box price of Rs 19,999.

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  • JBL LIVE BUDS 3 Launch: Touchscreen Case & 7-Level Adaptive ANC

    JBL LIVE BUDS 3 Launch: Touchscreen Case & 7-Level Adaptive ANC

    JBL launched the LIVE FLEX 3 TWS last week in China for 1,399 yuan ($212) with 12mm dynamic drivers and a built-in touch screen. The company has now introduced another TWS earphone with a similar touch screen called the LIVE BUDS 3. You can learn more about the LIVE FLEX 3 here. Let’s check out the latter one here.

    The LIVE BUDS 3 will be available for purchase at 0:00 tomorrow in China with an initial price tag of 1,299 Yuan (~$179).

    JBL LIVE BUDS 3 specs and features:

    Audio and ANC

    This set of TWS earphones features 10mm composite diaphragm driver units with neodymium magnets, delivering a concert-like presence with crisp and clear audio. The product also supports 3D spatial audio.

    The earbuds come with an in-ear detection feature that can automatically pause the audio when you remove the earbuds or receive a phone call when you’re wearing them. This adds convenience and can save battery power. You can also customize the sound output using the equalizer to adjust the bass to your preference, aiming for a balanced sound output.

    The earphones have an Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) feature that can switch between seven levels of noise cancellation depending on the environment. You can also control it yourself via the JBL Headphones app.

    The microphone matrix inside and outside the headset is equipped with a digital noise reduction software engine, which helps the earbuds generate reverse sound waves with high precision to achieve noise reduction and noise cancellation. The earplugs are also reportedly soundproof, designed to keep environmental noise out of your ear canal.

    Battery life and charging

    The LIVE BUDS 3 offer 10 hours of battery life on a single session and 30 hours with the charging case. It supports fast charging, offering 4 hours of playback with just 10 minutes of charging. Note that the battery life mentioned is likely tested with ANC turned off; turning it on will consume more power, resulting in a relatively lower battery backup.

    Something special

    As shown in the image, there is a 1.5″ LCD color screen that supports one-finger touch control. You can also change the wallpaper on the screen.

    Sometimes it can be more convenient to use the case rather than the touch controls on the earbuds. This is where the screen on the case becomes handy. It allows the user to switch between noise reduction, spatial audio, sound effect modes, and sleep aid mode from the charging case.

    JBL LIVE BUDS 3 Launch: Touchscreen Case & 7-Level Adaptive ANC
    JBL LIVE BUDS 3 Launch: Touchscreen Case & 7-Level Adaptive ANC
    JBL LIVE BUDS 3 Launch: Touchscreen Case & 7-Level Adaptive ANC
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  • JBL Live Beam 3 Earbuds with ANC Teased on Amazon India

    JBL Live Beam 3 Earbuds with ANC Teased on Amazon India

    JBL recently revealed its latest Live TWS 3 series at CES 2024, highlighting the Live Beam 3 earbuds, which will soon be accessible in India and other global markets.

    Though the exact launch date hasn’t been disclosed, these earbuds are already listed on Amazon and JBL’s Indian websites. On the JBL site, the price is set at Rs. 24,999 in India. However, it’s likely a placeholder as Amazon India suggests the earbuds will be priced below Rs. 20,000. Specifications and features are detailed below.

    JBL Live Beam 3 Earbuds Specifications

    The Live Beam 3 features 10mm dynamic drivers delivering JBL’s signature sound quality. The earbuds boast up to 48 hours of battery life on a single charge without noise cancellation, and up to 40 hours with noise cancellation turned on. A quick charge option provides 4 hours of playtime after just 15 minutes of charging.

    These earbuds include a customizable SmartCase that allows for sound settings and call control, and even lets you personalize the case’s screensaver. Additional features include Hi-res audio, adaptive noise cancellation for enhanced sound clarity in noisy settings, and six microphones to improve call quality.

    Additional Features

    The Live Beam 3 supports wireless charging and can be managed via the JBL Headphones app, enabling users to adjust EQ, audio, and video settings. With the latest Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, they ensure stable pairing and are available in black, blue, and gray.

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  • Nokia Unveils New Immersive Phone Call Technology

    Nokia Unveils New Immersive Phone Call Technology

    Nokia’s CEO Pekka Lundmark recently made a phone call utilizing a cutting-edge technology known as “immersive audio and video.” This innovation aims to enhance call quality by introducing a three-dimensional effect, making the listening experience more lifelike. The demonstration was conducted with Stefan Lindström, Finland’s Ambassador of Digitalisation and New Technologies.

    Nokia anticipates their 3D calling technology will soon set the industry standard. They are urging network providers, chipset manufacturers, and handset makers to adopt and integrate this immersive calling feature into their products.

    A Step Towards Realistic Communication

    The objective of this new technology mirrors Google’s Project Starline, albeit with fewer prerequisites. The CEO’s demonstration showcased the future of voice communication, akin to his participation during the introduction of 2G calling.

    For years, the core technology and output of voice calls have remained mostly unchanged. Initially, calls employed heavy compression to minimize file size for transmission. Despite the current infrastructure’s capability to handle high-quality, multi-channel audio, we still rely on monophonic systems. Nokia’s 3D audio-based immersive calling represents a significant advancement in calling technology.

    A Leap in Live Voice Calling

    Nokia’s innovation will not only enhance auditory experience but also allow users to visualize the caller’s environment. “It is the biggest leap forward in the live voice calling experience since the introduction of monophonic telephony audio used in smartphones and PCs today,” stated Jenni Lukander, Nokia’s president.

    This new calling method’s advantage lies in its simplicity; it doesn’t necessitate special audio equipment to experience the 3D effect. A stereo microphone setup, common in most modern smartphones, is sufficient to create this immersive experience.

    Practical Demonstration and Future Prospects

    For those concerned about transmission, the demonstration used a standard 5G-enabled smartphone. As shown in the image above, CEO Pekka Lundmark was holding a Pixel device. Besides one-on-one calls, this immersive technology can also be applied to conference calls.

    Nokia plans to license this new technology and make it publicly accessible within a few years.

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  • Lenovo EA350 Open-Back Earbuds: 13mm Drivers, 24hr Battery, More

    Lenovo EA350 Open-Back Earbuds: 13mm Drivers, 24hr Battery, More

    Lenovo has introduced a new pair of TWS earbuds named the EA350 in China. These earbuds are priced at 129 yuan (about $18) and are currently available on JD.com. Let’s explore their main features.

    Lenovo EA350 Earbuds Specifications

    The Lenovo EA350 comes with 13mm dynamic drivers that deliver clear and robust sound. They also incorporate "Digital Enhancement Technology" designed to enhance audio fidelity, improve low-frequency response, and provide crisp vocals.

    The earbuds feature an open-back design, which is aimed at providing comfort for prolonged use, particularly for those who find blocked ear canals uncomfortable. This design also lets in some ambient noise, enhancing situational awareness during activities like commuting or exercising.

    Comfort and Connectivity

    The EA350 includes fiber lightweight ear hooks for a secure and comfortable fit. The earbuds are made from "zero-touch skin-friendly" materials, ensuring they are gentle and non-irritating, even during intense workouts.

    Equipped with Bluetooth 5.4, these earbuds offer a stable connection with low latency (as low as 0.06 seconds) for both music and calls. They claim a battery life of up to 6.5 hours on a single charge, with the charging case extending the total to 24 hours.

    User Controls and Compatibility

    Each earbud has separate touch buttons allowing users to control music playback, manage calls, and activate their preferred voice assistant.

    The Lenovo EA350 is compatible with a wide range of Bluetooth-enabled devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops running Android, iOS, HarmonyOS (Huawei’s operating system), Windows, and likely even macOS.

    Lenovo EA350 Open-Back Earbuds: 13mm Drivers, 24hr Battery, More
    Lenovo EA350 Open-Back Earbuds: 13mm Drivers, 24hr Battery, More
    Lenovo EA350 Open-Back Earbuds: 13mm Drivers, 24hr Battery, More
    Lenovo EA350 Open-Back Earbuds: 13mm Drivers, 24hr Battery, More
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  • Xiaomi Mini Bluetooth Speaker Light Brown with 360º Sound

    Xiaomi Mini Bluetooth Speaker Light Brown with 360º Sound

    Xiaomi has introduced a new color option for its Bluetooth Speaker Mini. This new Light Brown variant is designed to be wear and scratch-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor use. Xiaomi assures that the speaker can maintain a pristine appearance even under extreme conditions. The base of the speaker features anti-collision soft rubber, which minimizes damage from accidental impacts, enhancing its durability.

    Durability and Design

    The Xiaomi Bluetooth Speaker Mini boasts an IP67 rating, ensuring it is both waterproof and dustproof, making it versatile for various environments. It features a 3-unit acoustic architecture with a symmetrical full-range speaker design that provides 360º omnidirectional sound output. The speaker includes multiple built-in audio styles and allows users to manually adjust the frequency response curve to suit personal preferences. It is integrated with the Xiaomi Pengpai Zhilian architecture and the Xiaomi Pengpai OS, and its NFC feature enables quick Bluetooth connections by simply touching the NFC area of the speaker.

    Battery and Connectivity

    The speaker is powered by a 2,000mAh battery, offering up to 11 hours of playback time. The battery can be fully recharged in just 1.8 hours (108 minutes). Additionally, the speaker supports simultaneous connection to two mobile devices, allowing users to switch between playback sources as needed.

    Availability

    The new Light Brown variant of the Xiaomi Bluetooth Speaker Mini is now available on retail platforms in China, including JD.com, for 199 yuan ($27). Currently, there are no details regarding its global availability.

    Xiaomi Mini Bluetooth Speaker Light Brown with 360º Sound
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  • Redmi Buds 6S with Noise Reduction and Spatial Audio Launched at $27

    Redmi Buds 6S with Noise Reduction and Spatial Audio Launched at $27

    Xiaomi’s Redmi has introduced new semi-ear active noise-canceling earbuds, the Redmi Buds 6S, in China. The Redmi Buds 6S features spatial audio and comes in a compact square box design. The earbuds are available in three colors: Clear Snow White, Midnight Black, and Starry Sea Blue. According to the listing on Xiaomi Mall, the earbuds are labeled as “coming soon,” so the complete release details are not yet available.

    Key Specifications

    The Redmi Buds 6S boasts a 14.2 mm ultra-large dynamic unit and a 0.45 mm ultra-large amplitude. It has earned the NetEase Cloud Audio ultra-clear sound quality certification, emphasizing its high-fidelity audio output. The earbuds offer semi-in-ear active noise cancellation with two noise reduction modes. Additionally, they feature dual microphone AI call anti-wind noise, with a maximum anti-wind noise effect of 9m/s. The device also includes SoundID customized sound effects, adaptive hearing optimization, and spatial audio for a well-rounded sound experience.

    Compatibility and Battery Life

    The Spatial Audio feature of the Redmi Buds 6S is compatible with several devices such as the Redmi K70, Redmi K70 Pro, Xiaomi Mix Fold 3, Xiaomi 13, Xiaomi 13 Pro, Xiaomi 13 Ultra, Xiaomi 14, and Xiaomi 14 Ultra, among others. The earbuds offer a total battery life of 33 hours when used with the charging case. They support Xiaomi Hyper Connect audio streaming, smart dual-device connection, and can be integrated with the Xiaomi Headphones app.

    Pricing & Availability

    The Redmi Buds 6S is priced at 199 yuan ($27) on Xiaomi Mall. While the complete release details have not been disclosed yet, it is anticipated that these features and other specifications of the earbuds will be available soon as the launch is imminent.

    Redmi Buds 6S with Noise Reduction and Spatial Audio Launched at
    Redmi Buds 6S with Noise Reduction and Spatial Audio Launched at
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  • Boat Airdopes Atom 81 Pro: 13mm Drivers, 100H Playback for ₹999

    Boat Airdopes Atom 81 Pro: 13mm Drivers, 100H Playback for ₹999

    Indian electronics company Boat has expanded its Airdopes series with the introduction of the Airdopes Atom 81 Pro earbuds. These new earbuds come without silicone tips, offering both benefits and drawbacks.

    Firstly, these earbuds ensure a comfortable fit without exerting pressure or causing irritation in the ear canal. Additionally, the improved airflow prevents moisture buildup. However, the lack of a seal can result in sound leakage. Now, let’s delve into the specifications.

    Specifications of Boat Airdopes Atom 81 Pro:

    The Airdopes Atom 81 Pro is equipped with 13mm drivers that deliver the distinctive boAt sound and Quad mics with ENxTM technology for clear phone conversations. A notable feature is the Beat Mode, which offers a 50ms low latency, ideal for gamers who need synchronized audio and visuals.

    For users on the go, these earbuds provide an impressive 100 hours of playback time. With ASAP charge technology, a quick 5-minute charge results in 100 minutes of playback, thanks to the Type-C charging port.

    These earbuds support Bluetooth 5.1 and feature IWP (Instant Wake and Pair) technology, which accelerates the pairing process. They also boast an IPX5 rating, making them resistant to sweat and splashes, suitable for workouts and outdoor activities.

    Pricing & Availability

    The Boat Airdopes Atom 81 Pro earbuds are now available on Amazon at a launch price of ₹999 and are offered in three colors: Ivory Elegance, Obsidian Noir, and Slate Fusion.

    This marks Boat’s third product launch in the past few weeks, following the release of the Airdopes 300 and Airdopes 311 Pro earbuds. The Airdopes 300 is notable for providing spatial audio at an affordable price, while the Airdopes 311 Pro features an appealing transparent design and offers 50 hours of playtime.

    Boat Airdopes Atom 81 Pro: 13mm Drivers, 100H Playback for ₹999
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