Mobile Audio Hub

Sony's WH-1000XM5 or WF-1000XM5 could have another year left in the tank. (Image source: G Style Magazine)

Leaker offers insights into Sony LinkBuds, WF-1000XM6 and WH-1000XM6 releases

A leaker of all things Sony has offered a few insights into the state of its consumer audio division. Allegedly, the company is not planning to deliver WH-1000XM5 or WF-1000XM5 successors this year. While the WF-1000XM6 and WH-1000XM6 may be far off from being released, Sony is said to be planning second-generation LinkBuds and LinkBuds S models in the meantime.

Alex Alderson, 10 Jun 2024 00:15

There are a good number of DIY mods already available for Spotify Car Thing (Image source: lmore377 on GitHub)

Hacking community saves Spotify Car Thing from becoming an e-waste

Spotify Car Thing will officially reach the end of support and stop being functional after December 9th, 2024. Even though the company has started to offer refunds, there's a requirement that many of the users may not meet. The hacking community has devised solutions to use the device for something else for those who don't or can't take the refund.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 08 Jun 2024 20:44

Anker is recalling the Anker 321 Power Bank due to a manufacturing defect. (Image: Anker)

Product recall: Anker issues recall of power bank due to potential fire risk

Anker has announced a voluntary product recall. According to the company, there is a potential fire risk with the Anker 321 Power Bank due to a manufacturing defect.

Marcus Schwarten, 07 Jun 2024 05:11

Bose has discounted the QuietComfort 45 to $199 (Image: Bose)

Deal | Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones are now extremely cheap

The very comfortable Bose headphones have been on the market since 2021, but thanks to a steep discount, the noise-cancelling QuietComfort 45 are still an excellent choice for bargain hunters who are looking for a decent pair of over-ears.

Enrico Frahn, 05 Jun 2024 19:22

The Thunder Lite soundbar. (Source: OXS)

OXS Thunder Lite debuts as affordable Bass Pipe soundbar with Virtual Surround sound

The OXS Thunder Lite purports to deliver the "X-space Virtual Surround" tech necessary for convincing FPS gaming or content consumption in a relatively compact package thanks to a new Bass Pipe design. It also supports a range of connectivity options, comes with its own remote control and can be snapped up for just under $100 at present.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 05 Jun 2024 17:12

The new Bluetooth speaker Soundcore Boom 2 Plus from Anker is now available. (Image: Anker)

Soundcore Boom 2 Plus finally goes on sale: Anker's Bluetooth speaker tempts with 140 W, BassUp 2.0, and LED light show

Anker's new Bluetooth speaker Soundcore Boom 2 Plus is now available in stores. The party speaker boasts 140 W and BassUp 2.0, promises rich sound and up to 20 hours of playtime and also has a built-in LED light show.

Marcus Schwarten, 05 Jun 2024 16:20

Xiaomi Redmi Bluetooth announced in China as an affordable wireless speaker (Image source: JD.com [edited])

Xiaomi announces new affordable Redmi Bluetooth speaker with dual drivers and IP67 rating

Xiaomi has announced a new wireless speaker. Simply called the Redmi Bluetooth speaker, it brings a "2-unit acoustic configuration" that promises to deliver "clear, bright, and powerful" audio. It also features an IP67 rating, Bluetooth 5.3, and a 5-hour battery life. The launch is set for June 14 in China at CNY 129 (around $18).

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 03 Jun 2024 16:59

The Pentonic 800 is official. (Source: MediaTek)

Computex 2024 | Next-gen up-to-165Hz VRR 4K TVs are on the way, powered by MediaTek

MediaTek has announced that it is bringing its latest SoC for TVs to Computex 2024. The Pentonic 800 is backed to deliver up to 50% faster AI than its predecessor, which is necessary for its upgraded Super Resolution 3.0 and AI-Picture Quality features. It is also touted to support higher maximum refresh rates on a 4K screen, and could also be used to make the Wi-Fi 7 TV of the future.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 31 May 2024 19:32

Spotify starts offering refunds for Car Thing (Image source: Spotify)

Spotify avoids possible lawsuits by offering refunds for Car Thing

Spotify recently announced that its Car Thing will not be functional after December 9th, 2024. During this announcement, the only solution that the streaming giant gave was to factory reset the device and hand it over to a local disposal department for recycling. But after a class action lawsuit has been filed, with the possibility of more to be filed, it’s now offering refunds.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 31 May 2024 07:16

Iyo One wireless earbuds bring generative AI features to your ears (Image source: Iyo [edited])

Google-backed Iyo One put generative AI into wireless earbuds

Rabbit R1 and Humane AI Pin have had a short run after being announced. The craze around these AI-powered devices went down soon after release. Now, a Google-backed startup has decided to take a different approach, bringing generative AI into an accessory you might already use regularly: wireless earbuds. They're called Iyo One, and you can preorder a pair now.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 29 May 2024 17:42

LG Tone Free T80 launch with a special promo offer (Image source: LG)

LG bundles new Tone Free T80 wireless earbuds with free XBOOM Bluetooth speaker

LG has launched a brand-new pair of Bluetooth earbuds, the Tone Free T80, which come with an upgraded design, pack graphene speaker driver, and feature Dolby Atmos with Dolby Head Tracking. The launch price for the wireless earbuds is $199.99, and if you order now, you get the LG XBOOM Go portable speaker for free.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 29 May 2024 09:13

The Fit SE Open Earbuds S31. (Source: 1MORE)

1MORE Fit SE Open Earbuds 31: all day wear-ready earphones that start at under $45

The 1MORE Fit SE Open Earbuds S31 are touted to pack all the best features of their immediate predecessors, their "enlarged" drivers and battery, Al-Powered Noise Cancelling Tech and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity included. However, they are touted to deliver even more Airy Comfort by being 30% lighter.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 25 May 2024 19:02

Spotify Car Thing to be e-waste on December 9th, 2024 (Image source: Spotify)

Spotify Car Thing will no longer be a thing at the end of this year

The Spotify Car Thing came into existence in April 2021, with the company offering the device on an invite-only basis. It later saw a wider release, with sales kicking off in February 2022. But it went out of production five months later, and now, it is heading towards being an e-waste in December of this year.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 24 May 2024 14:25

foobar2000 Mobile interface (Source: Google Play)

foobar2000 Mobile 1.5 now available with new skin format support

Updated yesterday to version 1.5.1 for Android, which only comes with a few minor fixes, foobar2000 Mobile 1.5 arrived earlier this week with a new skin file format, OGG chapter support, a built-in picture viewer, as well as many under-the-hood improvements and tweaks. The new skins can be edited using common tools.

Codrut Nistor, 23 May 2024 10:18

The Buds Wireless 3 Neo. (Source: Realme)

Realme Buds Air6 with 50dB ANC and Buds Wireless 3 Neo hit Indian market

The Buds Air6 ship with premium active noise cancellation (ANC) and other specs worthy of higher-end TWS earbuds, yet have launched at the equivalent of ~$40 in a new market. They are joined by a new, more affordable version of wireless neckbuds with the same level of IP-certified ingress protection and Bluetooth 5.4.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 22 May 2024 16:00

Anker has launched the Soundcore A30i ANC earbuds worldwide. (Image source: Soundcore)

Anker Soundcore A30i cheaper ANC earbuds now available

The Soundcore A30i by Anker noise cancelling earbuds have been launched at Amazon globally. You can customize the noise cancellation in the accompanying app, offering various modes and levels. Other features include a 3D surround sound tool and Bluetooth 5.4 for Multipoint connection.

Polly Allcock, 22 May 2024 11:50

The new Soundcore Sleep A20 have officially gone on sale. (Image: Anker)

Earbuds for more restful sleep: Anker's Soundcore Sleep A20 now officially available

Anker's new Soundcore Sleep A20 sleep earbuds have been officially launched onto the market. The earbuds are intended to ensure better sleep with noise suppression and provide sleep tracking.

Marcus Schwarten, 22 May 2024 04:45

The Sonos Ace comes in black and white colour options. (Image source: Sonos)

Sonos Ace: New Sonos over-ear wireless headphones released with high-end hardware to take on established order

Sonos has now released a pair of over-ear wireless headphones. Arriving after several detailed leaks, the Sonos Ace features plenty of features befitting a high-end pair of wireless over-ear headphones.

Alex Alderson, 21 May 2024 19:30

Sonos Roam 2 launches as a minor upgrade over the original portable wireless speaker (Image source: Sonos)

Sonos Roam 2 wireless speaker brings easier setup and better controls without a price bump

Sonos has launched the Roam 2, which brings a couple of upgrades over the predecessor. Among them are an easier setup process and better controls, both of which aim to make the user experience a little more hassle-free. As for the price, it has stayed the same, coming in at $179.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 21 May 2024 18:33

The soundcore Boom 2 Plus - new Bluetooth speaker with lighting

Soundcore Boom 2 Plus: Waterproof Bluetooth speakers with lighting launch with gift

With the soundcore Boom 2 Plus, Anker is now offering a new very powerful speaker for outdoor use. Lighting is also integrated for an impressive appearance.

Silvio Werner, 21 May 2024 13:10

Apple's Airpods Max are discounted 18% today. (Image via Apple on Amazon)

Deal | Apple Airpods Max, Airpods 2nd Generation discounted to just over lowest prices on Amazon

Apple's best headphones, the Airpods Max, are discounted close to their lowest price ever on Amazon. Additionally, the 2nd Generation Airpods are also discounted to just 99¢ higher than their lowest-ever price.

Sam Medley, 21 May 2024 04:58

Winamp as an online platform (Source: Own)

Winamp will return this summer

Initially released at the end of April 1997, Winamp has been intermittently dormant for nearly a decade ever since. The latest stable release is one year old and carries the 5.9.2 version number. A new Winamp version, described as "the best player to listen to all types of audio," is set to arrive on the 1st of July.

Codrut Nistor, 18 May 2024 13:02

The Sonos Ace will be unveiled in a few days. (Image: Sonos, via WinFuture)

Leak: Sonos Ace hi-fi headphones launching soon with lossless sound, but will be more expensive than expected

The first over-ear headphones from Sonos are set to be launched in a few days. Extensive leaks now reveal official marketing material, the price and launch date as well as the complete specs of the high-end headphones.

Hannes Brecher, 18 May 2024 03:46

soundcore P30i: ANC headphones with a smartphone stand.

Anker soundcore P30i: ANC headphones with clever additional function

The soundcore P30i are new and affordable wireless headphones that feature active suppression of ambient noise. The charging case of the headphones can also be used as a stand for a smartphone.

Silvio Werner, 17 May 2024 09:48

Meta's 'camerabuds' might ultimately have an over-ear headphone rather than earbud form-factor (Image generated by DALL-E AI)

Meta reportedly building “camerabuds” – headphones with cameras and AI like its Ray-Ban smart glasses

A new report has emerged claiming that Meta is in the early stages of developing headphones or earphones with built in cameras and an AI assistant, similar to its Ray-Ban smart glasses. Reportedly, multiple designs have been explored, with efforts underway to circumvent issues like obstruction from long hair and overheating.

Vishal Bhardwaj, 15 May 2024 15:26

Realme Buds Air6: Cheaper in-ear headphones launch with large driver, strong ANC and low price

Realme offers new headphones with strong ANC at a relatively low price. They support LHDC 5.0 and also have low latency, as well as IP certification.

Silvio Werner, 13 May 2024 12:11

The Huawei Eyewear 2 Sunglasses will officially launch in mid-May. (Image source: Huawei)

Huawei teases new Eyewear 2 Sunglasses ahead of launch event

The Huawei Eyewear 2 Sunglasses have been teased on Weibo before their official launch at an event later in May. The new wearables are expected to share many similarities with the original model, with the addition of tinted lenses. For example, the open acoustic device will allow users to listen to music or take calls.

Polly Allcock, 11 May 2024 10:45

Realme Buds Air6 Pro: Headphones with ANC and two drivers

Realme launches Buds Air6 Pro headphones with 50 dB ANC, LDAC support and two drivers per ear

Realme offers new and completely wireless headphones. These support active noise cancellation and also feature a mode for particularly low-latency playback.

Silvio Werner, 11 May 2024 07:21

Sennheiser offers the ACCENTUM True Wireless earbuds in three colours. (Image source: Sennheiser)

ACCENTUM True Wireless: Sennheiser releases new Red Dot Design award-winning ANC earbuds

Sennheiser has expanded its ACCENTUM series with a pair of true wireless stereo (TWS) earbuds. Available in three colours and across multiple markets, the ACCENTUM True Wireless has 7 mm dynamic transducers, with support also provided for Bluetooth LC3 and Qualcomm aptX codecs, among other features.

Alex Alderson, 09 May 2024 15:31

The HD 620S retails for roughly as much as the HD 600. (Image source: Sennheiser)

Sennheiser HD 620S: New Sennheiser wired and closed-back headphones released as HD 600 successors

The HD 620S is Sennheiser's latest pair of wired and closed-back headphones. Designed with audiophiles in mind, the Sennheiser HD 620S is already available to pre-order in multiple markets.

Alex Alderson, 08 May 2024 19:07

The Ace will be Sonos' first and much anticipated foray into the headphone category (Image Source: Schuurman)

Photos, price of upcoming Sonos Ace headphones leak online

Sonos’ foray into the headphone category has been rumoured for some time, and now, images of its upcoming wireless headphone – the Sonos Ace – have leaked via an authorised dealer’s website, along with the retail price of around $430. Also discovered from the same source is a photo of the Roam 2 portable speaker, expected to be launched soon.

Vishal Bhardwaj, 07 May 2024 19:52

Huawei has decided to sell the FreeClip in a third colour option. (Image source: Huawei)

Huawei releases FreeClip refresh with new colour option

Huawei has updated the FreeClip, a pair of open earbuds that it only unveiled in December 2023. Five months later, the company has refreshed the earbuds with a new more neutral colour option sold simply as 'beige'.

Alex Alderson, 07 May 2024 19:46

Huawei has created the FreeBuds 6i in multiple colour options. (Image source: Huawei)

Huawei announces FreeBuds 6i earbuds with quad magnet drivers and Hi-Res Audio Wireless support

The FreeBuds 6i is Huawei's latest pair of mid-range TWS earbuds. While the FreeBuds 6i succeeds the FreeBuds 5i, it also has plenty in common with the more expensive FreeBuds Pro 3.

Alex Alderson, 07 May 2024 19:18

LG TVs have a free trial of Apple Music. (Source: LG)

LG OLED and QNED models become first TVs to unlock Apple Music in Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos

Apple Music for LG TVs can now play tracks with Spatial Audio as well as in Dolby Atmos through a connected soundbars, so long as it is from the same brand. The feature, currently available on no other TVs, is backed to be the highest-end form of immersion on the app. LG TV users can try it out for free for a limited time.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 06 May 2024 18:29

YouTuber converts Apple AirPods Max to USB-C with custom kit

Apple now makes AirPods that do not need a Lightning port to charge; however, the company seems in no hurry to do the same with its (even more expensive) flagship wireless headphones. However, as a popular device repair YouTuber has demonstrated, it is possible for a user to end the frustration and make their AirPods Max into USB-C devices with a kit that is available to buy online.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 04 May 2024 17:26

Dual headphone jack smartphone scores high in new reparability video

The Moondrop MIAD 01 is one of the most distinctive Android devices of 2024 thus far. It has a 4.4mm headphone jack to go with the more conventional 3.5mm type. Furthermore, it seems it might be as appealing to teardown enthusiasts as well as audiophiles, and may, therefore, also be easier to repair than most modern smartphones.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 04 May 2024 16:38

Sennheiser has some flash deals. (Source: Sennheiser)

Deal | Get 25% or more off in Sennheiser wireless audio flash sale

Sennheiser's latest offers on products such as its flagship Momentum 4 wireless headphones or Ambeo-series soundbars beat those of Amazon, albeit for one day only. The premium brand's latest 25% off deals are only available for one day: today, May the Fourth 2024.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 04 May 2024 15:26

F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo spotted with what might be the revived Beats Pill (Image Source: f1 via Instagram)

Apple's unreleased Beats Pill speaker seen carried by Daniel Ricciardo, Lebron James; expected to launch soon

F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo was recently spotted with what appears to be an unreleased model of Apple’s iconic Beats Pill portable speaker, sparking rumours that the portable speaker lineup – discontinued since January 2022 – could see a revival soon. Two weeks ago, NBA player LeBron James was also seen with the same speaker.

Vishal Bhardwaj, 03 May 2024 19:30

Spotify HiFi is still in the works (Image source: Spotify [Edited])

New Spotify HiFi leak showcases UI elements and a few dialog prompts

We have yet another Spotify HiFi leak. The new tier was announced back in February 2021 and has yet to arrive. However, after some tweaking, a Redditor named OhItsTom could forcefully make the UI elements appear on the desktop and a few dialog prompts pop up on mobile. These suggest that the "Supremium" tier is still being worked on.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 03 May 2024 17:27

The flexible handle gives the Bose SoundLink Max a handbag-like appearance (Image Source: Bose)

Bose launches SoundLink Max – its heftiest portable speaker, for $399

Bose has just unveiled the SoundLink Max, the latest and largest member of the SoundLink portable speaker lineup, boasting a carry handle and rugged, IP67 rated construction. It also features Snapdragon Sound and Bose’s SimpleSync technology to enhance connectivity and sound quality. The speaker is priced at $399 and will be available from May 16.

Vishal Bhardwaj, 02 May 2024 21:33

The Samsung Music Frame is a 6-speaker, Dolby Atmos wireless speaker that can be mounted like a picture frame or used as stand-alone speakers for TVs, PCs, and phones. (Source: Samsung)

Samsung releases HW-LS60D Music Frame wireless speaker with Spotify, Tidal, and Dolby Atmos Music for TVs, PCs, and phones

Samsung has released the HW-LS60D Music Frame wireless speaker for home theater and audio enthusiasts. The speaker supports Dolby Atmos Music streaming, Spotify and Tidal Hi-Fi connect, and FLAC and Hi-Res audio support. Automatic room optimization and TV synchronization enable the Music Frame to be used as external speakers for televisions, phones, and computers.

David Chien, 02 May 2024 21:14

The FiiO FA19 packs ten drivers into a compact housing. (Image: FiiO)

Transparent in-ears with 10 BA drivers and Hi-Fi mode: FiiO unveils FA19 flagship IEMs

With the FA19, FiiO presents new flagship earphones that feature a total of ten BA drivers per ear to achieve an enormously detailed sound. The transparent, 3D-printed housing allows a view of the drivers.

Hannes Brecher, 02 May 2024 12:09

The AirPods Pro 2 feature excellent ANC and seamless pairing with Apple devices (Image Source: Apple)

Deal | Apple Airpods Pro 2 hit lowest price ever on Amazon, Best Buy

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd gen) are discounted by 28% off their retail price on Amazon and Best Buy right now, putting them at their lowest price yet. The AirPods Pro 2 are ranked among the best wireless earphones today (specially for iPhone users) thanks to their stellar ANC, Adaptive Audio and spatial audio with head tracking.

Vishal Bhardwaj, 01 May 2024 18:20

The Beats Solo 4 get USB-C, longer battery life and better sound. (Image: Apple)

Apple unveils Beats Solo 4 with USB-C, lossless audio and 3D sound

The Beats Solo 4 are launching as the successor to the hugely popular Beats Solo 3, bringing with them a number of long overdue upgrades such as USB-C connectivity, Spatial Audio with head tracking and support for Google's Find My Device network.

Hannes Brecher, 01 May 2024 03:24

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro headphones are not only intended for gaming. (Image: SteelSeries)

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro flagship headphones launch as White Edition with replaceable batteries

SteelSeries is relaunching the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless gaming headphones, giving the headset a white housing and a comfort upgrade. The battery, which can be replaced in seconds, remains a unique selling point, while the company also promises console and PC compatibility.

Hannes Brecher, 01 May 2024 03:13

The Beats Solo Buds are offered in four colors, including red. (Image: Apple)

Apple's Beats Solo Buds launch for $79.99 with a compact, transparent charging case

Apple has presented its most affordable completely wireless earphones to date, the Beats Solo Buds, which are designed to impress with detailed sound. The particularly small charging case and special ventilation openings on the earphones are designed to ensure comfort, both in your pocket and in your ears.

Hannes Brecher, 01 May 2024 02:30

Godox Magic XT1: A new wireless mic system with OLED touchscreen receiver

Godox' latest clip-on wireless audio recording system comes with dual long-range mics rated for "impressive" Hi-Res audio. Furthermore, the Magic XT1's 2-in-1 receiver has its own OLED display to help control and monitor its audio in real time. It also supports connectivity via 3.5mm jack and the USB Audio Class (UAC) standard.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 30 Apr 2024 17:33

Bowie MA10s: Baseus refreshes super-affordable ANC TWS earbuds with spatial audio and wireless charging

Baseus has announced an updated version of the "most popular" wireless earbuds it makes. The Bowie MA10s augment their immediate predecessors' hybrid ANC, "Oscar-Worthy" sound and "comfortable" build with in-demand features such as Immersive Spatial Audio Technology and a case capable of wireless charging. Nevertheless, they still stick to an introductory price of less than $40.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 30 Apr 2024 16:50