Apple releases new Powerbeats: less expensive than the Pros, but not TWS

Apple's latest Powerbeats are, like their last generation, wireless earphones rather than truly wireless (TWS) earbuds. This means they have a short neckband-like cable running between a pair to keep them on the wearer at all times. Despite this, they also still exhibit the ear-hooks present in their Pro counterparts.

Therefore, their OEM describes them as "wireless high-performance earphones" aimed at sporting and fitness enthusiasts. They do give the impression of being capable of staying in the ear regardless of user activity levels, particularly as they also come with spare ear-tips of varying sizes. These accessories incorporate the same H1 chip technology found in up-to-date AirPods.

The new Powerbeats are also rated for 15 hours of battery life per charge, whereas their predecessors were rated for 12. They are also equipped with Audio Sharing, by which more than 1 pair of compatible earphones or earbuds can use the audio stream from the same iPhone.

Then again, they come with a charging cable that has a Lightning connector at one end rather than something more universal such as USB type C. These wireless earphones come in white, black or red and are priced at US$149.95 via the BeatsbyDre website.