Category: Audio

  • 1More SonoFlow SE: Enhanced Battery Life & Wireless Technology

    1More SonoFlow SE: Enhanced Battery Life & Wireless Technology

    Key Takeaways

    1. Extended Battery Life: The Sonoflow SE “2025” offers up to 90 hours of playback on a single charge, an upgrade from the previous model’s 70 hours.

    2. Enhanced Sound Quality: Features custom 40mm titanium-coated drivers that deliver a rich sound with exceptional transient response.

    3. Noise Cancellation: Includes QuietMax noise cancellation capable of blocking out unwanted noises by up to 42 dB or more.

    4. Improved Connectivity: Upgraded Bluetooth 5.4 offers Dual-Point Connectivity and a Gaming Mode with 80 ms latency, plus wired mode with 1 ms latency.

    5. Affordable Pricing: Available for $49.99, or about $40 with a coupon, providing budget-friendly options compared to previous models.


    Some budget-friendly audio enthusiasts might recall that 1More has previously launched a pair of wireless headphones named Sonoflow SE. However, this latest iteration comes with the model number HQ31, unlike the HQ30 found in the initial release.

    Improved Battery Life

    The Sonoflow SE “2025” is designed to offer up to 90 hours of playback on a single charge, which is an upgrade from the 70 hours provided by its similarly named predecessors. The updated model features “custom” 40mm titanium-coated drivers with dome-shaped diaphragms that promise a “rich, resonant sound with exceptional transient response.”

    Notable Features

    These new Sonoflow SE headphones also include signature 1More features, such as Hi-Res and Hi-Res Wireless audio certifications, “expert” tuning by a Grammy-winning sound engineer, and QuietMax noise cancellation that can block out unwanted noises by up to 42 decibels (dB) or more.

    They are designed for long listening sessions, featuring an adjustable headband and earcups, “slow-rebound” ear cushions, and a total weight of 273 grams (g).

    Connectivity and Pricing

    With upgraded Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, these headphones offer Dual-Point Connectivity and a Gaming Mode that boasts a latency of 80 milliseconds (ms). They can also be used in wired mode (though only via USB), providing an impressive 1ms latency instead. The only codec mentioned for this new release is LDAC.

    The HQ31 version of the Sonoflow SE is currently available for purchase through 1More or Amazon in colors such as black, white, pink, and pale blue for $49.99—or about $40 with their introductory coupon. In comparison, the HQ30s are priced at around $44.80 at best right now.

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  • Anker Soundcore C40i Wireless Earbuds Discount Available on Amazon

    Anker Soundcore C40i Wireless Earbuds Discount Available on Amazon

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Color Option: The Anker Soundcore C40i earbuds are now available in “Desert Bronze,” replacing the original “Graphite Gray.”

    2. Open-Ear Design: The earbuds feature an open-ear design that fits around the ear, allowing for larger drivers and improved audio quality.

    3. Audio Features: Users can enable 3D surround sound through the Anker app, though true active noise cancellation is limited due to the open-ear design.

    4. Battery Life: The earbuds offer 7 hours of battery life on a single charge, with a total of 21 hours when using the charging case.

    5. Water Resistance: The Soundcore C40i earbuds have an IPX4 water-resistant rating and support multipoint Bluetooth connectivity.


    We’ve talked about the Anker Soundcore C40i earbuds before, and now they are available in a fresh new color. Technically, this latest version matches the original, but visually, there’s a clear distinction.

    New Look

    The updated version is dressed in a shade known as “Desert Bronze,” replacing the earlier “Graphite Gray.” Both color options can be found on sale at Amazon, where a coupon code on the product page gives a discount of $10 or 10%. These wireless earbuds are sold by Anker and shipped straight from Amazon.

    Design and Comfort

    As the images suggest, the Soundcore C40i are not traditional in-ear buds but are designed as open-ear headphones that hug around your ear. The flexible connecting joint promises a comfy and snug fit.

    Since the Soundcore C40i don’t go into the ear canal, they can house larger drivers that measure 12 x 17 millimeters. This design choice should lead to a more robust bass response and improved audio quality.

    Features and Performance

    You can enable 3D surround sound through Anker’s smartphone application, although there are clear limitations since there are only two drivers. The earbuds also come with active noise reduction for phone calls, but true active noise cancellation (ANC) isn’t feasible due to their open-ear design.

    Moreover, multipoint Bluetooth is available, and these headphones are rated as water-resistant under the IPX4 classification. Even more noteworthy is the Anker Soundcore C40i’s battery life, which lasts 7 hours on a single charge, while the included charging case can boost the total usage time up to 21 hours.

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  • Audio-Technica Unveils Upgraded Open-Ear Cartilage Headphones

    Audio-Technica Unveils Upgraded Open-Ear Cartilage Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Cartilage Conduction Technology: The ATH-CC500BT2 headphones use vibrations on the ear’s cartilage for sound, allowing open-ear listening and increased awareness of surroundings.

    2. Enhanced Comfort and Design: The new model features a lighter and more flexible design with a titanium neckband and silicone ear hooks for all-day comfort.

    3. Smart Features: The Audio-Technica Connect app includes modes for improved call quality, background music, sound leakage control, and relaxing nature sounds.

    4. Practical for Hybrid Work: The headphones offer AI-driven noise cancellation, a 20-hour battery life, IPX4 water resistance, and multi-device Bluetooth connectivity.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The ATH-CC500BT2 is priced at £119 in the UK and €139 in Europe, with no release information for North America yet.


    Audio-Technica has introduced the ATH-CC500BT2, the second version of its cartilage conduction headphones, enhancing the previous year’s model. These headphones provide an open-ear listening experience, allowing users to enjoy music or answer calls while still being mindful of their surroundings. This quality makes them ideal for commuters, those who work from home, and people who love outdoor activities.

    Innovative Design

    The ATH-CC500BT2 utilizes cartilage conduction technology, transmitting sound via vibrations on the ear’s cartilage rather than obstructing the ear canal. This approach enables users to remain aware of their environment, minimizes ear fatigue, and offers better hygiene when compared to standard in-ear headphones. The new version is designed to be lighter and more flexible, featuring a titanium neckband and silicone ear hooks that ensure comfort throughout the day.

    Smart Features

    Audio-Technica has incorporated useful enhancements for daily life. The Audio-Technica Connect app now features several new modes: Clear Voice to enhance call quality, BGM for background music, and Limit Sound Leakage for more discreet use in public spaces. Additionally, a new Soundscape feature delivers relaxing nature sounds like rain or forest ambiance, catering to the growing need for mental wellness solutions.

    Practical Use Case

    For those who work in hybrid settings, these headphones come equipped with AI-driven noise cancellation that effectively eliminates background sounds like traffic or typing during phone calls. They also boast a battery life of 20 hours, an IPX4 water resistance rating, and the ability to connect to multiple devices via Bluetooth for seamless transitions.

    The price point for these headphones is set at £119 in the UK and €139 in Europe, with no information available regarding a release in North America just yet.


  • Galaxy S24 May Get Audio Eraser Feature with One UI 7.0

    Galaxy S24 May Get Audio Eraser Feature with One UI 7.0

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Audio Eraser feature may soon be available for Galaxy S24 owners with the One UI 7.0 update.
    2. This AI tool can identify and adjust the volume of up to six different sounds in a video, allowing for sound removal.
    3. The feature requires a strong Neural Processing Unit (NPU), which the Galaxy S24 models possess.
    4. Galaxy S24 users have been waiting for the One UI 7.0 update for over five months since Android 15 was released.
    5. There is hope that other AI features from the Galaxy S25 series may also be made available for older models like the Galaxy S23.


    Here’s some exciting news for Galaxy S24 owners: The Audio Eraser feature from the upcoming Galaxy S25 series may soon be available for the earlier models. According to tipster @tarunvats33, Samsung is likely to introduce this useful AI tool to the Galaxy S24 with the official One UI 7.0 update.

    About the Feature

    This innovative feature leverages AI to distinguish up to six different sounds in a video. Users can adjust the volume of each sound or even mute them entirely. Picture capturing an adorable video of your pet, but it’s spoiled by the sounds of traffic or gusty winds. With Audio Eraser, those annoying noises can be removed, allowing the pleasant audio to shine through. It really feels like magic for your video content!

    The Technical Requirements

    To function effectively, this feature requires a robust Neural Processing Unit (NPU). Fortunately, the S24 models are equipped with either the Exynos 2400 or Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, both of which are powerful enough to support it. The big question remains: will older models like the Galaxy S23 also receive this upgrade? We certainly hope so!

    Waiting for the Update

    Let’s face it—Galaxy S24 users have been eagerly anticipating the stable One UI 7.0 update for quite some time. It’s been more than five months since Android 15 was released, and so far, Samsung has only made it available for the Galaxy S25 and the Galaxy F06 5G. Introducing a feature like Audio Eraser could definitely help justify the wait and give S24 users a reason to celebrate.

    If the tipster’s information is accurate, Audio Eraser might be included in the One UI 7.0 update for the Galaxy S24. This is one of those features that simplifies life, and it’s fantastic to think that it may not be limited to the Galaxy S25. It’ll be intriguing to see if any other AI capabilities from the Galaxy S25 series will also be shared with its older counterparts.

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  • Audio-Technica Unveils Second-Gen Open-Ear Cartilage Headphones

    Audio-Technica Unveils Second-Gen Open-Ear Cartilage Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Cartilage Conduction Technology: The Audio-Technica ATH-CC500BT2 uses cartilage conduction instead of bone conduction, providing a unique listening experience without ear canal insertion.

    2. Comfort and Awareness: These headphones allow users to be aware of their surroundings while listening, avoiding discomfort and moisture buildup associated with traditional earphones.

    3. Enhanced Sound Quality: Cartilage conduction offers a stereo sound experience, delivering distinct sounds to the ears rather than merging them in the skull.

    4. Improved Design Features: The ATH-CC500BT2 is smaller, lighter, and more secure than its predecessor, with an IPX4 water resistance rating and features like AI noise reduction and Bluetooth Multipoint.

    5. Long Battery Life and Fast Charging: The headphones provide up to 20 hours of playback on a single charge, with fast charging that allows 120 minutes of use from just a 10-minute charge.


    Audio-Technica has introduced a new set of open-ear headphones that utilize cartilage conduction technology, setting them apart from the bone conduction technology commonly found in other models. This latest offering marks the company’s second venture into headphones that employ cartilage conduction.

    Comfortable Listening Experience

    The Audio-Technica ATH-CC500BT2 offers users a unique listening experience without needing to insert anything into the ear canals. This design not only keeps the ear canals open but also ensures that users remain aware of their surroundings while listening. Unlike traditional bone conduction, these headphones transmit sound through the cartilage instead of the skull bones.

    Additional Benefits of Cartilage Conduction

    In addition to the benefits typical of open-ear designs, such as avoiding ear discomfort and moisture buildup, Audio-Technica claims that cartilage conduction has extra advantages. It tends to be more comfortable than bone conduction, as it applies less pressure to the head. Moreover, it offers a stereo sound experience, allowing sounds to reach the ears distinctly rather than merging in the cranial cavity, which is what happens with bone conduction.

    Improved Design and Features

    Building on the success of its earlier model from 2022, the ATH-CC500BT2 is said to be smaller and lighter than its predecessor while maintaining a secure fit even during light physical activities. The headphones boast an IPX4 water resistance rating, AI-powered noise reduction, and compatibility with voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant. They also support Bluetooth Multipoint, and users can take advantage of a companion app to adjust equalizer settings or enjoy soothing white noise.

    The headphones offer a battery life of up to 20 hours for playback on a single charge, with up to 10 hours available for calls. They feature fast charging capabilities, as a quick 10-minute charge can provide up to 120 minutes of use. The Audio-Technica ATH-CC500BT2 is compatible with AAC and SBC codecs, as well as A2DP, AVRCP, and HFP Bluetooth profiles.

    Audio-Technica has set the retail price for the headphones at £119 in the UK and €139 in Europe, but there is currently no information regarding a release in North America.

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  • Huawei FreeArc Open-Ear Sports Buds Launching with Mate XT

    Huawei FreeArc Open-Ear Sports Buds Launching with Mate XT

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei’s upcoming wireless earbuds will be called FreeArc, designed for athletes with an open-ear design and ear hooks.
    2. The FreeArc earbuds feature a memory alloy wire for comfort and high-sensitivity drivers for powerful bass.
    3. They offer up to 28 hours of battery life and have an IP57 rating for sweat and splash resistance.
    4. The expected retail price is around $125, with pre-orders available for approximately $93.
    5. Huawei will also launch the Mate XT tri-foldable smartphone and potentially the Huawei Band 10 alongside the FreeArc earbuds.


    Huawei has now confirmed the rumors from leakers about its upcoming wireless earbuds, initially referred to as Fixed Focus Digital’s “Arc,” which will officially be called FreeArc.

    Pricing and Features

    Similar to the Nothing earbud products, which are currently discounted by $60 to a price of $129 on Amazon, the FreeArc earbuds feature an open-ear design complemented by ear hooks. Unlike the previous FreeClip models, these earbuds are specifically designed for athletes and those who frequent the gym, while still maintaining a C-bridge design aimed at enhancing balance, comfort, and fit.

    Design and Comfort

    The FreeArc’s hooks are constructed from a nickel-titanium “memory alloy” wire, which is covered in silicone that is gentle on the skin. These earbuds boast high-sensitivity drivers with dimensions of 17x12mm, paired with titanium-coated PU diaphragms to deliver “powerful” bass.

    Battery Life and Durability

    Users can expect up to 28 hours of usage on a single charge, and these will be Huawei’s first accessories to carry an IP57 rating, making them safe from sweat and splashes. The official launch of the FreeArc earbuds is planned for February 18, 2025, during a major event in Kuala Lumpur.

    In the meantime, the FreeArc earbuds are expected to retail for around $125, as seen on the Japanese Greenfunding site, where they can be pre-ordered for 14,100 yen (approximately $93). This is a significant discount, representing 75% of their future retail price of 18,800 yen.

    Upcoming Products

    Alongside the FreeArc earbuds, Huawei is also set to release the innovative Mate XT tri-foldable smartphone globally, and potentially the new Huawei Band 10 as well.

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  • Bose Noise Master Buds Launched in India: 49dB ANC at Rs 7999

    Bose Noise Master Buds Launched in India: 49dB ANC at Rs 7999

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Noise Master Buds feature impressive active noise cancellation (ANC) of up to 49 decibels and support Spatial Audio.
    2. They have a comfortable in-ear design, dual device connectivity, and a six-microphone system for clearer calls.
    3. On a full charge, the earbuds offer up to 44 hours of playtime with ANC off and 34 hours with ANC on.
    4. The earbuds are priced at 7,999 INR, with a promotional pre-booking price of 5,999 INR.
    5. Available in three colors (Silver, Onyx, Titanium), they can be purchased through various online platforms, including Amazon India.


    Noise has officially launched its flagship truly wireless earbuds in India. This new product comes from a partnership with the well-known premium audio brand, Bose. The Noise Master Buds aim to deliver an exceptional audio experience along with powerful active noise cancellation (ANC). Let’s dive into the details.

    What Makes Noise Master Buds Unique?

    After several teasers, the Noise Master Buds have been revealed with a sleek and appealing design. This is the inaugural product in the Master series, boasting impressive features such as Spatial Audio and up to 49 decibels of ANC. Additionally, there’s a transparency mode available. The earbuds are equipped with 12.4mm dynamic drivers constructed from materials like PEEK and Titanium. To enhance the sound quality, they also support the LHDC codec.

    Advanced Features of Noise Master Buds

    These earbuds feature a comfortable in-ear design with a stem and support for dual device connectivity, Google Fast Pairing, and a Find My Device option. With a six-microphone system, users can benefit from Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) for clearer calls. The Master Buds are also compatible with the NoiseFit app.

    On a full charge, the Noise Master Buds can provide up to 44 hours of playtime with ANC off, and 34 hours when ANC is on. A quick 10-minute charge offers up to 6 hours of usage. Other significant features include a USB Type-C port, a vinyl disc-style charging case, a 2PM light bar, and a weight of 40 grams (with each earbud weighing 4.2 grams).

    Pricing and Availability

    The Noise Master Buds have been released in three color options: Silver, Onyx, and Titanium. They are priced at 7,999 INR and will be available for purchase on the brand’s official website, Amazon India, Croa, Vojay Sales, and Reliance Digital. Customers who pre-book the earbuds for 999 INR can get a discount of 2,000 INR, bringing the effective price down to just 5,999 INR. Pre-booking is open on Amazon and gonoise.com.

  • Nu Republic Starboy 6 Wireless Headphones with LED Lights Launched

    Nu Republic Starboy 6 Wireless Headphones with LED Lights Launched

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nu Republic Starboy 6 wireless headphones are designed with gamers in mind, featuring LED lights and a comfortable fit with vegan leather earcups.
    2. They include 40mm neodymium drivers and X-Bass technology, offering enhanced bass and two modes for Music and Gaming.
    3. The Game mode reduces latency to 42ms and features Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) for clearer communication during gaming.
    4. The headphones have a long battery life of up to 30 hours on a single charge and support dual pairing for easy switching between devices.
    5. Priced at 2,499 INR, the Starboy 6 is available from the official website, with sales starting on February 13, 2025, and comes with a 6-month warranty.


    Nu Republic has just revealed its latest wireless headphones for the Indian audience. The model they unveiled is the Starboy 6, showcasing a design inspired by gamers that includes LED lights and comes at an affordable price. Here’s everything you need to know.

    Specifications of the Nu Republic Starboy 6

    The Starboy 6 is designed for comfort and a secure fit. It boasts a high-quality vegan leather covering for the earcups, and the headphones are lightweight at only 240 grams. The ergonomic design also incorporates LED lighting. Inside, the Nu Republic Starboy 6 is equipped with 40mm neodymium drivers and X-Bass technology, providing enhanced bass. Additionally, there are two modes available specifically for Music and Gaming.

    Gaming Features of the Starboy 6

    When using the Game mode, the latency is reduced to a mere 42ms. To enhance calling quality, the Starboy 6 is fitted with ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation), which is beneficial for gamers needing clear in-game communication and those who stream online. With just one full charge, these wireless headphones can last up to 30 hours. The latest headphones from Nu Republic also allow dual pairing, making it easy to switch between connected devices. Basic controls are accessible through dedicated buttons on the headphones.

    Pricing and Where to Buy

    Nu Republic has launched the Starboy 6 wireless headphones in a single color and offers a 6-month warranty. The headphones are priced at 2,499 INR, with sales starting today (13th February 2025). You can buy them from the official website of the brand. A few months back, the company also introduced the Cyberstud X7 ANC TWS featuring an RGB LED design.

  • Beats Powerbeats Pro 2: Heart Rate Monitor & ANC Features

    Beats Powerbeats Pro 2: Heart Rate Monitor & ANC Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Improved Design: The Powerbeats Pro 2 features a new nickel-titanium alloy earhook for better fit and stability, is 20% lighter, and includes five ear tip sizes, including extra-small.

    2. Enhanced Audio Performance: It offers Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, adaptive EQ, and improved acoustics, along with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency mode for versatile listening.

    3. Heart Rate Monitoring: The earbuds include LED optical sensors for real-time heart rate tracking, compatible with various fitness apps like Runna and Nike Run Club.

    4. Long Battery Life: Users can enjoy up to 10 hours of listening on a single charge, extending to 45 hours with the charging case, which is now 33% smaller and supports wireless charging.

    5. Pricing and Availability: Priced at Rs 29,900, the Powerbeats Pro 2 comes in multiple colors and is available for order on Apple’s official website, with retail sales starting on February 13.


    Beats has launched the Powerbeats Pro 2, which is specifically made for athletes and those who love to work out. This new version provides a better fit, superior sound quality, and heart rate tracking to help monitor performance while exercising. It also includes Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and a Transparency mode, making the listening experience both immersive and adaptable.

    Key Features of Powerbeats Pro 2

    The Powerbeats Pro 2 is designed for both comfort and stability, sporting a new earhook made from a nickel-titanium alloy. These earbuds are 20% lighter compared to the earlier model and come with five different ear tip sizes, even offering an extra-small size. With an IPX4 rating, they can resist sweat and water, making them perfect for heavy training sessions.

    Enhanced Audio Performance

    For those who love high-quality sound, Beats has added Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, along with an adaptive EQ and improved acoustic design. This means you’ll get a well-rounded sound experience, featuring clear highs, robust mids, and deep bass. The ANC feature helps to block out outside noise, while the Transparency mode lets you hear ambient sounds when necessary.

    Heart Rate Monitoring and Connectivity

    A notable feature is the heart rate monitoring, which uses LED optical sensors to provide real-time data. This function works well with several fitness applications like Runna, Nike Run Club, and Slopes. With Class 1 Bluetooth technology, connectivity is easy and smooth. Apple users can take advantage of one-touch pairing, hands-free Siri, and Find My support, while Android users have the option to customize settings through the Beats app.

    Impressive Battery Life

    Battery life is impressive, allowing for up to 10 hours of listening on a single charge, which can be extended to 45 hours when using the charging case. Fast Fuel technology gives you 90 minutes of playback from just a five-minute charge. The charging case is 33% smaller than the previous version and supports wireless charging.

    Pricing and Availability in India

    The Powerbeats Pro 2 comes in colors like Jet Black, Quick Sand, Hyper Purple, and Electric Orange, with a price tag of Rs 29,900. You can place an order on Apple’s official website, with retail sales starting on February 13.


  • Truke Buds Echo: 3D Sound & 70-Hour Battery for ₹1,299

    Truke Buds Echo: 3D Sound & 70-Hour Battery for ₹1,299

    Key Takeaways

    1. Truke has launched the Buds Echo true wireless earbuds at a price of ₹1,499, with a special introductory price of ₹1,299.
    2. The earbuds feature 24-bit lossless Spatial Audio technology, providing superior sound quality and a three-dimensional audio experience.
    3. They are equipped with 13mm titanium drivers, Bluetooth 5.4, and a Quad Mic setup with PureVoice ENC for better call quality and noise cancellation.
    4. The Buds Echo offer up to 70 hours of battery life with the charging case and support Type-C fast charging for quick recharges.
    5. Available from February 18, 2025, the earbuds will be sold online in three colors: Green, Orange, and Black.


    Truke has launched its new true wireless earbuds, the Buds Echo, adding to its line of audio products following the release of the BTG Crystal Gaming earbuds earlier in 2024. The Buds Echo are priced at ₹1,499, but there’s a special introductory rate of ₹1,299 for a limited time, making them a budget-friendly choice with features often found in pricier alternatives.

    Features of Truke Buds Echo TWS Earbuds

    These earbuds showcase a pearl essence finish and include a transparent charging case, which adds to their visual charm. A standout feature is the 24-bit lossless Spatial Audio technology, which delivers superior audio quality compared to the usual 16-bit format in most earbuds. Truke states that this technology improves sound clarity and provides an engaging, three-dimensional audio experience for music, films, and gaming.

    Performance and Battery Life

    The Buds Echo are powered by 13mm titanium drivers and utilize Bluetooth 5.4 for a reliable connection. The 360Spatial Audio technology enhances the depth and direction of sound. For phone calls, the earbuds come with a Quad Mic setup featuring PureVoice Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC), which can cut down background noise by as much as 30dB. Gamers will appreciate the 40ms low-latency mode designed to minimize audio delay. Plus, the earbuds allow for dual-device connectivity, making it easy to switch between devices.

    Truke asserts that the Buds Echo can provide up to 70 hours of battery life when used with the charging case. The case is compatible with Type-C fast charging, enabling quick recharges. Additionally, the earbuds are backed by a one-year standard warranty.

    Availability and Colors

    Starting February 18, 2025, the Buds Echo will be available in India through online retailers like Amazon.in, Flipkart, and Truke’s official site. They will come in three color options: Green, Orange, and Black.