Category: Audio

  • New Sony WH-1000XM6 Wireless Headphones Leak Details

    New Sony WH-1000XM6 Wireless Headphones Leak Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has delayed the release of the WH-1000XM6, creating a three-year gap since the WH-1000XM5.
    2. The WH-1000X series release is planned to sync with the WF-1000X in-ear headphones, but no news on the WF-1000XM6 has been announced.
    3. The WH-1000XM6 has been spotted online with model number YY2984, indicating an upcoming launch.
    4. The headphones will support 2.4 GHz Bluetooth and come in three color options: Black, Platinum Silver, and Midnight Blue.
    5. Additional specifications for the WH-1000XM6 remain unclear, and Sony may update other over-ear headphones before the WH-1000XM6 launch.


    The WH-1000XM6 has taken a while to arrive. In the past, Sony has usually waited about two years to release a new version of the WH-1000X. However, this time, it looks like there might be a three-year gap between the WH-1000XM5 (currently priced at $398 on Amazon) and its upcoming successor.

    Delayed Releases

    It seems that Sony has put the WH-1000X series on hold so they can sync its launch with that of the WF-1000X in-ear headphones. However, there’s no news yet about a WF-1000XM6, unlike the WH-1000XM6.

    Recently, The Walkman Blog has spotted the WH-1000XM6 appearing online. This time, the headphones have made their way to importers, who refer to them by their model number YY2984.

    Specifications Revealed

    As expected, the listing shows features like 2.4 GHz Bluetooth support, which aligns with what people anticipated. Furthermore, the import details suggest that Sony will offer three color choices at launch, labeled BM, LM, and SM for Black, Platinum Silver, and Midnight Blue, respectively. Other specifications are still unclear for now, but it’s possible that Sony will update other over-ear headphones before focusing on the WH-1000XM6.

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  • Xiaomi Launches Smart Speaker Pro with IR Transmitter Features

    Xiaomi Launches Smart Speaker Pro with IR Transmitter Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Smart Home Control: The Smart Speaker Pro is designed for controlling smart home devices, answering questions, and playing music, featuring the advanced Super Xiao AI voice assistant.

    2. Enhanced Features: It supports multi-command processing, improved conversational tone, and can assist with tasks like copywriting and learning English.

    3. Specifications: The speaker has a 2.5-inch full-range speaker, dual passive radiators, stereo sound capability, an intercom feature, and can control 18 types of home appliances from over 8,000 brands.

    4. Design and Connectivity: It features a woven fabric exterior, physical control buttons, dimensions of 110 x 110 x 209 mm, and includes Bluetooth 5.0 and Xiaomi IOT Mesh 2.0.

    5. Pricing and Availability: Priced at CNY 369 (~$), the availability of the Smart Speaker Pro outside China is currently unknown, while the original Mi Smart Speaker is available in the US for $60.64.


    Xiaomi has introduced the Smart Speaker Pro in China. Speculations about this device started circulating earlier this month. The company asserts that this version has many improvements over the original Smart Speaker, which was released globally in 2022.

    Smart Home Control

    The Smart Speaker Pro is made for controlling smart home gadgets, answering inquiries, and playing music. This is the first unit from Xiaomi that includes the Super Xiao AI voice assistant. Xiaomi states that Xiao AI is now capable of helping you in a variety of situations, such as copywriting, planning, learning English, and doing calculations. It can also manage multiple questions at once; for instance, you can issue various commands for different devices simultaneously. Additionally, it reportedly offers a more natural tone and conversational style.

    Specifications and Features

    The speaker is equipped with a 2.5-inch full-range speaker along with dual passive radiators. You can connect multiple units for a stereo sound experience, and it allows streaming from numerous popular services. There’s an intercom feature that lets you call your family to dinner through other smart speakers in your house. The Smart Speaker Pro can function as an infrared remote for non-smart devices and works with 18 types of home appliances from over 8,000 brands. Furthermore, it boasts dynamic lighting effects that correspond to your Super Xiao AI conversations or the music being played. Other characteristics include Bluetooth 5.0, Xiaomi IOT Mesh 2.0, and HyperOS.

    Design and Pricing

    The speaker features a finely woven fabric exterior, physical control buttons on the top, and has dimensions of 110 x 110 x 209 mm. The Xiaomi Smart Speaker Pro is priced at CNY 369 (~$) in China. It remains uncertain if or when this smart home device will be available in other countries. The original Mi Smart Speaker (IR Control) with Google Assistant can currently be found on Amazon US via a third-party seller for $60.64.

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  • Soundcore Boom 2 Pro Bluetooth Speaker Now Available on Amazon

    Soundcore Boom 2 Pro Bluetooth Speaker Now Available on Amazon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The soundcore Boom 2 Pro Bluetooth speaker features an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, improving on the Boom 2 Plus’s IPX7 rating.
    2. It has a peak output of 140W, utilizing two 50W woofers and two 20W tweeters, with a frequency response of 40 Hz to 20 kHz.
    3. The speaker includes a 7,500mAh battery, offering up to 20 hours of playback and the ability to charge devices at a 10W output.
    4. Pre-orders are available on Amazon Germany for €299.98, with a launch price of €249.99, set to release on March 3rd.
    5. The Boom 2 Pro will also be released in the United States in April for $249, making it €50 more expensive than the Boom 2 Plus.


    The soundcore Boom 2 Pro Bluetooth speaker has made its debut on Amazon in Germany. This new model from Anker’s sub-brand was showcased at CES 2025 and is believed to be an enhancement over the previous Boom 2 Plus.

    Specifications and Features

    A manual has disclosed many specifications for the Boom 2 Pro. It shows that this latest model boasts an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, which is an improvement over the Boom 2 Plus’s IPX7 rating. Aside from this, both models seem to have similar features. They include a peak output of 140W, utilizing two 50W 4.5-inch woofers along with two 20W 0.75-inch tweeters. The frequency response spans from 40 Hz to 20 kHz, and the features consist of soundcore Pro EQ and a True Wireless Stereo (TWS) mode for pairing two speakers.

    Battery Life and Connectivity

    The Boom 2 Pro is equipped with a 7,500mAh battery, which reportedly allows for up to 20 hours of playback. Additionally, this battery can charge smaller devices like smartphones at a 10W output. It takes about three hours to recharge the battery at 30W. The speaker supports Bluetooth 5.3 with a range of 100m, and it has built-in lights that can sync with the music, enhancing the overall listening experience.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can now place a pre-order for the soundcore Boom 2 Pro along with the soundcore Select 3 bundle on Amazon Germany for €299.98; shipping is expected to start on March 3rd. The soundcore Boom 2 Pro has a recommended retail price of €249.99 and is also slated for release on March 3rd. This puts it at €50 more than the Boom 2 Plus. Additionally, the Boom 2 Pro is anticipated to launch in the United States this April for $249.

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  • Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro Preview: New Rival to AirPods Pro 2 & Galaxy Buds 3

    Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro Preview: New Rival to AirPods Pro 2 & Galaxy Buds 3

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi launched the Buds 5 Pro, competing with Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 and Samsung’s Galaxy Buds3 Pro.
    2. The Buds 5 Pro feature a stemmed design with 11 mm dynamic drivers and advanced noise reduction technology.
    3. Active noise cancellation (ANC) reduces background noise by 100 dB for calls, but drops to 55 dB for music.
    4. The earbuds offer up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge, extending to 40 hours with the charging case.
    5. Pricing starts at CNY 1,299 (around $178) for the Bluetooth model and CNY 1,499 (approximately $206) for the Wi-Fi version.


    Xiaomi launched several new items yesterday, such as the Xiaomi 15 Ultra and the Redmi Book Pro 16. They also unveiled the Buds 5 Pro, which seem to compete directly with Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 (currently priced at $199 on Amazon) and Samsung’s Galaxy Buds3 Pro in many ways. However, one version of the Buds 5 Pro has features that are rare among true-wireless stereo (TWS) earbuds.

    Design and Performance

    The latest earbuds from Xiaomi use a familiar stemmed design, housing 11 mm dynamic drivers that include planar and piezo drivers. The Buds 5 Pro are equipped with technology that can reduce background noise by up to 100 dB for calls. However, the active noise cancellation (ANC) feature decreases to 55 dB when you’re listening to music. Additionally, Xiaomi claims that the battery life can last up to 10 hours on a single charge, extending to 40 hours with the charging case that comes with it.

    Connectivity Features

    The Buds 5 Pro also utilize Bluetooth LC3 and Qualcomm aptX Lossless codecs, providing 50 ms latency and delivering audio at a 24-bit/48 kHz quality with a data rate of 2.1 Mbit/s. Alternatively, a special Wi-Fi version can connect to a local Wi-Fi network to stream audio from a compatible device at 24-bit/96 kHz, achieving a maximum throughput of 4.1 Mbit/s.

    Pricing and Availability

    The starting price for the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro is CNY 1,299 (around $178) for the Bluetooth-only model available in gold or white colors. On the other hand, the Wi-Fi version is priced at CNY 1,499 (approximately $206). While Xiaomi hasn’t shared information about when they will be available outside of China, it wouldn’t be surprising if they announce more during their MWC 2025 event on March 2.

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  • NTT Sonority Launches nwm Go Open-Ear Earphones with Noise Control

    NTT Sonority Launches nwm Go Open-Ear Earphones with Noise Control

    Key Takeaways

    1. The nwm Go open-ear earphones feature active noise leakage suppression technology for minimal sound disturbance to others.
    2. They include 12 mm drivers with a frequency response of 100 Hz to 20,000 Hz and allow sound customization via the nwm Connect app.
    3. The neckband design prevents tangling and ensures a secure fit during activities, with an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance.
    4. The earphones offer 10 hours of usage time, recharge in 1 hour and 15 minutes, and include quick charging capabilities.
    5. Priced at 16,500 yen (about $110), preorders start on March 1, with sales beginning on March 18 in Japan and also available in the U.S. via Amazon.


    NTT Sonority has unveiled the nwm Go open-ear earphones, featuring active noise leakage suppression and a neckband style to prevent loss and tangling.

    Innovative Sound Technology

    The Personalized Sound Zone employs active phase cancellation technology to minimize sound leakage that might disturb others nearby. This reduces the noise that escapes, keeping it low even though the design is open. This unique design allows users to remain aware of their surroundings, which is particularly useful for hearing emergency alarms or a crying baby.

    Impressive Specifications

    Equipped with 12 mm drivers, these earphones offer a frequency response ranging from 100 Hz to 20,000 Hz. Users can also tweak the sound settings through the nwm Connect smartphone application. To enhance voice clarity in noisy settings, MEMS microphones are integrated into the design.

    Functional Neckband Design

    The neckband style of the nwm Go ensures that users don’t need to hunt for a case when the earphones are not being used, and it also guarantees a snug fit while hiking or working out. With an IP55 rating, these earphones are protected against dust and splashes of water.

    The nwm Go earphones provide a usage time of ten hours and can fully recharge in one hour and 15 minutes. A quick five-minute charge gives an additional hour of playtime. They support music transmission through SBC, AAC, or LC3 audio codecs and feature Bluetooth 5.3 for multipairing.

    Pricing and Availability

    The nwm Go is priced at 16,500 yen (approximately $110) and comes in black, white, or beige options. Preorders will start on March 1, with sales beginning on March 18 on the nwm Japanese website. Customers in the United States will also be able to buy the nwm Go and other special open-ear headphones, like the nwm One, when they are released through the nwm store on Amazon.

    The “nwm GO” model, perfect for outdoor activities and workouts, will be launched on Tuesday, March 18.

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  • Mixx Audio Launches Revival 65 Bluetooth Record Player

    Mixx Audio Launches Revival 65 Bluetooth Record Player

    Key Takeaways

    1. National Retro Day: February 27, 2025, is recognized as National Retro Day, celebrating nostalgic items like record players.

    2. Retro 65 Turntable: Mixx Audio has launched the Retro 65, a full-size turntable featuring a strong belt-drive system and support for 33 and 45 RPM records.

    3. Features of Revival 65: The Revival 65 includes an auto-stop feature, pitch control, and a diamond-tip stylus from Audio-Technica, all in a classic briefcase design.

    4. Sound Capabilities: It has dual speakers that can play audio from vinyl or stream from connected devices, and it can connect to external sound systems for enhanced audio.

    5. Availability and Price: The Revival 65 is available in black or white for $199.99 on Amazon, marketed as a stylish and functional addition to any space.


    Today, February 27, 2025, is recognized by some as National Retro Day, and among the many cherished items in this nostalgic category, the record player stands out the most.

    Introducing the Retro 65

    This could be the reason why Mixx Audio has decided to enhance the timeless medium of LP vinyl records with its newest offering. The Retro 65 boasts a “strong” belt-drive system within its full-size turntable. It supports both 33 and 45 RPM records, thanks to the included adapter for the latter.

    Features of the Revival 65

    The Revival 65 is equipped with an auto-stop feature and pitch control “for personalized playback,” and it comes with a diamond-tip stylus as part of its AT3600L cartridge from Audio-Technica.

    The design is classic; it has the iconic ‘briefcase’ shape, featuring a wooden interior and faux leather exterior, complemented by “sturdy” fittings like a solid metal handle. The lid comes with a round viewing window, allowing it to be open or closed while playing records.

    Sound Capabilities

    Additionally, the Revival 65’s casing houses dual speakers, which can either play its own audio or stream from connected devices such as smartphones.

    It can also connect to an external sound system to enhance the warmth and clarity of vinyl throughout a room—or even an entire house—though Mixx Audio does not share the specifications for the internal speakers, which might be a good thing.

    The company claims that the new Revival 65 will serve as “a stylish and functional addition to any environment,” and it is currently available in black or white on Amazon for $199.99.


  • Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro Launch: Wi-Fi Audio, 55dB ANC, AI Features

    Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro Launch: Wi-Fi Audio, 55dB ANC, AI Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sound Quality: Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro feature a dual-amplifier triple-driver acoustic system with a frequency range of 15Hz to 50kHz, ensuring clear sound across highs, mids, and bass.

    2. Advanced Audio Transmission: The Wi-Fi edition supports next-gen audio transmission at speeds up to 4.2Mbps, allowing for studio-quality lossless audio with compatible Xiaomi devices.

    3. Noise Cancellation: The earbuds provide 55dB adaptive noise cancellation and a 3-mic AI noise reduction system, effectively minimizing background noise for clearer calls.

    4. Spatial Audio and Smart Features: They include a standalone spatial audio system with dynamic head-tracking and AI-driven speech-to-text conversion, enhancing the user experience in multilingual settings.

    5. Pricing and Battery Life: The Buds 5 Pro are priced at 1,299 yuan ($178) and the Wi-Fi version at 1,499 yuan ($206), with battery life of up to 10 hours on a single charge for the Wi-Fi edition.


    Xiaomi has unveiled the Buds 5 Pro series along with its top-tier Xiaomi 15 Ultra and SU7 Ultra electric vehicle. These earbuds showcase a groundbreaking dual-amplifier triple-driver acoustic system, which provides high-quality sound with very little distortion. Let’s dive into the important specifications and pricing details.

    Specifications of Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro

    The Buds 5 Pro come equipped with a coaxial triple-driver configuration, featuring an 11mm dual-magnetic dynamic driver along with a planar diaphragm unit. This setup spans a frequency range from 15Hz to 50kHz, ensuring sharp highs, clear mids, and robust bass.

    They also support Qualcomm’s aptX Lossless codec, enabling 48kHz/24-bit high-resolution audio transmission at rates of up to 2.1Mbps. Additionally, Xiaomi has added Harman tuning, which includes a unique “Harman Master” sound profile for a refined listening experience.

    Advanced Features

    The Wi-Fi edition boasts next-gen Wi-Fi audio transmission, achieving speeds of up to 4.2Mbps, which is double the typical Bluetooth transmission rate. When combined with compatible Xiaomi devices like the 15 Ultra, this feature allows for studio-quality lossless audio.

    In terms of noise management, the Buds 5 Pro offer 55dB ultra-wideband adaptive noise cancellation, covering a 5kHz spectrum. They also incorporate a 3-mic AI noise reduction system that minimizes background noise by up to 100dB for crystal-clear calls. Wind noise resistance is rated at 15m/s, making them suitable for outdoor activities.

    Immersive Sound Experience

    Xiaomi has equipped the Buds 5 Pro with a standalone spatial audio system that features dynamic head-tracking, generating a 360-degree immersive sound environment. These earbuds also support tailored spatial audio calibration, optimizing playback based on the unique shape of one’s ears.

    Regarding smart capabilities, the Buds 5 Pro introduce AI-driven real-time speech-to-text conversion, boasting a claimed accuracy rate of 98.7%. They also facilitate face-to-face translation and simultaneous interpretation, making multilingual conversations easier.

    The Buds 5 Pro are accompanied by a Type-C charging case. The standard Bluetooth version has a 53mAh battery in each earbud and a 570mAh charging case, providing up to 8 hours of use on their own and up to 40 hours with the case. The Wi-Fi edition offers a larger 64mAh battery per earbud but maintains the same 570mAh charging case, allowing for 10 hours of standalone use and 40 hours with the case.

    Pricing and Where to Buy

    The Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro are available for 1,299 yuan ($178), while the Wi-Fi version is priced at 1,499 yuan ($206). The Buds 5 Pro can be found in Snow Mountain White and Titanium Gold, while the Wi-Fi edition is offered in Phantom Black.


  • Xiaomi Smart Speaker Pro Launches: Better AI, Bigger Sound, Low Price

    Xiaomi Smart Speaker Pro Launches: Better AI, Bigger Sound, Low Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. AI Voice Assistant: The Smart Speaker Pro features the Super Xiao AI voice assistant, enabling fluid, multi-turn conversations and context memory for seamless interactions.

    2. Audio Performance: It includes a 2.5-inch full-range speaker with dual passive radiators, delivering 12W output for a balanced sound experience, and allows pairing of two speakers for surround sound.

    3. Smart Home Integration: Equipped with HyperOS, the speaker can control various Xiaomi IoT devices through voice commands and set up automated routines, along with an infrared remote for traditional appliances.

    4. Connectivity Options: The device supports Bluetooth 5.0 and dual-band Wi-Fi for stable connections, and includes a Type-C audio input for easy connection with external devices.

    5. Stylish Design: The Smart Speaker Pro has a modern design with a woven fabric outer layer, user-friendly buttons, and a compact size, making it both stylish and practical for any space.


    Xiaomi has launched the Smart Speaker Pro, an AI-driven speaker equipped with the Super Xiao AI voice assistant, available for 299 yuan ($41). This new product was unveiled during the Xiaomi 15 Ultra and SU7 Ultra launch event, alongside the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro.

    Specifications of the Xiaomi Smart Speaker Pro

    The Xiaomi Smart Speaker Pro comes with Super Xiao AI, which includes a sophisticated language model that allows for fluid, multi-turn conversations and remembers context. Users can give continuous voice commands without needing to repeat the wake words, thanks to a triple-microphone setup that ensures precise recognition. It also features dynamic semantic inheritance, which helps in managing complex inquiries, assisting with planning, and generating text.

    The device has a 2.5-inch full-range speaker unit, complemented by dual passive radiators, delivering a robust output of 12W. The audio system is crafted to provide clear highs, rich mids, and deep bass, resulting in a balanced sound experience. Users can also pair two speakers together for a more immersive surround sound experience. Moreover, it includes a dynamic light band that syncs with music playback, adding a visually appealing dimension to the audio experience.

    Smart Home Control and Connectivity

    Equipped with HyperOS, the speaker offers a complete smart home control system that allows for hands-free operation of Xiaomi IoT devices. It can process voice commands for several devices simultaneously and set up automated routines based on user preferences. Additionally, the device features an infrared remote control function, which lets users manage traditional appliances like TVs and air conditioners that aren’t smart-enabled.

    For stable wireless connectivity, the speaker supports Bluetooth 5.0 and dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), ensuring faster network performance. It also includes a Type-C audio input, making it easy to connect external devices such as laptops, desktops, and projectors for wired audio playback.

    Design and Usability

    The Xiaomi Smart Speaker Pro is designed with a modern, woven fabric outer layer and rounded edges, merging style with practicality. Its dimensions are 110mm x 110mm x 209mm, and it weighs around 1073g. The device features user-friendly buttons for playback, volume adjustment, and microphone muting, along with an LED indicator that displays the status.

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  • JBL Flip 7 vs. Flip 6 vs. Flip 5: Key Differences Explained

    JBL Flip 7 vs. Flip 6 vs. Flip 5: Key Differences Explained

    Key Takeaways

    1. Design and Durability: The JBL Flip 7 maintains the cylindrical design of previous models and features an improved IP68 waterproof rating, making it dustproof and submersible for up to 30 minutes.

    2. Enhanced Sound Performance: The Flip 7 introduces AI-driven audio tuning with the JBL AI Sound Boost algorithm, providing a more balanced and engaging listening experience compared to earlier models.

    3. Improved Battery Life: The Flip 7 offers around 14 hours of playtime, an increase from the 12 hours of the Flip 6 and Flip 5, enhancing usability for outdoor activities.

    4. Upgraded Connectivity: It includes Bluetooth 5.4 for better range and stability, along with support for JBL’s PartyBoost feature, allowing pairing with other compatible JBL speakers.

    5. Upgrade Consideration: The Flip 7 is a worthwhile upgrade for Flip 5 users due to significant enhancements, while Flip 6 users may not find the differences compelling enough to switch.


    JBL’s Flip series has long been a popular choice for portable Bluetooth speakers, recognized for its excellent sound and durability in a compact package. The most recent model, the Flip 7, adheres to this successful approach while incorporating some enhancements. If you have a Flip 6—or even a Flip 5—you might wonder if upgrading is worth it, or if this is just another minor update. Let’s explore this further.

    Design Features

    When examining the Flip 7, it’s evident that JBL chose to stick with a successful design. The cylindrical shape remains, along with the rubberized passive radiators at both ends, all wrapped in the same tough fabric mesh. In terms of size, it’s quite similar to the Flip 6, remaining lightweight and highly portable, which is a key selling point for the Flip series. When placed next to the Flip 5, the differences in size are hardly noticeable.

    One improvement is in waterproofing. The Flip 7 boasts an IP68 rating, making it completely dustproof and able to withstand being submerged in water for up to 30 minutes. This is a significant enhancement over the Flip 6’s IP67 rating and a notable upgrade from the Flip 5’s IPX7 rating that only provided water resistance without dust protection. JBL continues to prioritize durability, which is excellent for anyone planning to use this speaker outside.

    Sound Performance

    Sound quality is crucial for any speaker, and JBL has been enhancing the Flip series for years. The Flip 5 offered a decent audio experience with its single-driver system, ensuring clarity and dynamism across various music styles. The Flip 6 advanced this with a separate tweeter and woofer, achieving better balance in sound frequencies.

    Now, with the Flip 7, JBL is advancing the series further with AI-driven audio tuning. It features a new JBL AI Sound Boost algorithm that adjusts sound in real-time based on what you’re hearing. Internally, it includes a high-performance acoustic chamber, an independent tweeter, a racetrack-shaped mid-bass driver, and dual passive radiators, promising a deeper and more engaging listening experience.

    Battery and Connectivity

    Battery life has always been a strong point for JBL, and the Flip 7 sees a small but appreciated increase. The Flip 6 offered around 12 hours of playtime—matching the Flip 5—but the Flip 7 extends this to about 14 hours. While this isn’t a huge jump, every extra hour counts during long outdoor activities.

    Charging continues to use USB-C, without any improvements in charging speed. While the absence of wireless charging isn’t a dealbreaker, it is a minor drawback, especially as some competitors begin to offer it.

    JBL has made a small yet significant upgrade in connectivity with the inclusion of Bluetooth 5.4 in the Flip 7. This should enhance both range and stability compared to the Flip 6’s Bluetooth 5.1 and the Flip 5’s Bluetooth 4.2. If you’ve experienced connection issues when moving your phone away from the speaker, these should occur less frequently.

    The Flip 7 also supports JBL’s PartyBoost feature, enabling pairing with other JBL speakers. However, this feature isn’t new, as it was available with the Flip 6 and Flip 5 too. If you own older PartyBoost-compatible JBL speakers, you can still connect them with the Flip 7.

    Should You Make the Switch?

    If you currently have the Flip 5, the Flip 7 presents enough enhancements to justify an upgrade. You’ll benefit from improved sound quality, better connectivity, a slight increase in battery life, and enhanced durability.

    On the other hand, for those with the Flip 6, the differences aren’t as significant. The audio upgrades and battery improvements are minor, and while having Bluetooth 5.4 is nice, it won’t drastically impact your experience. If your Flip 6 is functioning well, there’s no rush to switch to the Flip 7.

    Conclusion

    The JBL Flip 7 is more of an evolutionary upgrade than a revolutionary one. It fine-tunes the elements that have made the Flip series successful, but it doesn’t bring about major transformations. If you’re looking for a new portable speaker and don’t already possess the Flip 6, this is a straightforward recommendation.

  • Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro Charging Problems: What to Know

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro Charging Problems: What to Know

    Key Takeaways

    1. Charging Failures: Many Galaxy Buds 3 Pro users report issues with one earbud not charging, indicated by a blinking orange light and unchanged battery percentage.

    2. Magnetic Sensor Problems: Users suggest that the magnetic sensor, which detects earbuds in the charging case, may be causing charging issues, requiring a temporary workaround that is not a true fix.

    3. Damaged Charging Pins: Some users have found damaged or melted charging pins in the case, raising concerns about manufacturing defects and safety, especially following past incidents of devices catching fire.

    4. Software Update Issues: A software update from October 2024 has been linked to the charging problems, with some users experiencing issues post-installation, though a global fix from Samsung is still pending.

    5. Costly Repairs: Samsung service centers often blame problems on water damage, charging high repair costs, despite users claiming their earbuds were never exposed to water.


    Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 3 Pro have received a lot of attention for their new design featuring “blade lights” on the stems. However, their reputation has been tainted by several quality control problems. Users have reported issues ranging from delicate ear tips to problems with high-pitched sounds. The biggest concern, though, is the increasing number of complaints about charging failures.

    Charging Issues

    Numerous Galaxy Buds 3 Pro owners have claimed that one of the earbuds fails to charge correctly. Signs of this issue include the charging case’s orange light blinking, notifications on the phone indicating the earbuds aren’t charging, and the battery percentage for one earbud not changing. Further investigation shows that there may be multiple causes behind this problem, highlighting serious quality control issues.

    Magnetic Sensor Problems

    One user pointed to the magnetic sensor, which determines if the earbuds are in their charging case, as a potential cause of the charging trouble. They suggested a temporary fix, which involves “bringing the broken earbud close to the case so the magnet/sensor believes it’s inside” and then taking it out. The LED should blink, and you will get a notification saying “charging stopped.” Although repeating this process a few times has been said to help (at least for a while), one has to wonder if anyone would accept such a solution for a TWS priced at Rs 19,464 (USD 223) from Samsung. To sum it up, this barely counts as a fix for the problem with this product, even if it seems to work momentarily.

    Damaged Charging Pins

    Another user found that the charging pins inside their case looked damaged or even “melted.” Given that earbuds are low-energy devices and shouldn’t create much heat, this raises questions about possible manufacturing defects. There was also a troubling incident last year when a Galaxy Buds FE caught fire, which adds to the worries about Samsung’s quality control.

    Software Update Concerns

    In addition to hardware issues, a software update released in October 2024 has been connected to the charging problems. Some users noticed the issue only after they installed this update. While this implies that a software solution could be possible, Samsung has not yet provided a global fix. A recent update in South Korea (version R530XXU0AYB3) has sparked hope, but it’s unclear when it will be available in other regions.

    Costly Repairs

    Despite the apparent manufacturing defects, Samsung service centers have reportedly attributed many of the problems to water damage, charging customers as much as $180 for repairs. Users affected by these issues insist that they have never exposed their earbuds to water.