❌

Reading view

Forget Sony and Bose — Jabra's Evolve3 85 is my new meeting headset

If you need a headset to use at work, Bose's QuietComfort Ultra Gen II and the Sony WH-1000XM6 are undoubtedly good choices. I prefer the Bose because of its comfort and sound quality, and it is the headset I use while traveling.

But I found out recently that there is a better choice: Jabra's Evolve3 85. It is positioned as a work headset, but it does so much more; I used it for the better part of three months now, and I'm convinced that it is better than what Bose and Sony have to offer. Coming in at $475, it is on the higher end of the scale, but it has meaningful advantages over its immediate rivals.

Jabra Evolve3 85 review on Android Central

(Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

Let's start with the design. The Evolve3 85 is the lightest headset in its category at 220g, and I immediately noticed the difference. Bose and Sony's headsets are at least 30g heavier, and switching between the QC Ultra Gen II and the Evolve3 85, it's clear that Jabra nailed the comfort. The lightweight design ensures you get a fit that doesn't lead to any fatigue even with all-day use.

The ear cushions have a breathable design, and that extends to the headband as well. Build quality is great, and while it is light, you never get a feeling that it is flimsy — it's built to last. Another positive is the case; the headset folds flat and fits snugly into the bundled case, which is significantly smaller than what you get with Bose and Sony. This is a big deal in and of itself, as the Evolve3 85 doesn't take up anywhere as much room in your bag.

Jabra Evolve3 85 review on Android Central
Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central
Jabra Evolve3 85 review on Android Central
Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central
Jabra Evolve3 85 review on Android Central
Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central
Jabra Evolve3 85 review on Android Central
Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central

I also like the connectivity on offer. The Evolve3 85 uses Bluetooth 5.3, and I didn't see any issues pairing the headset with my Pixel 11 Pro XL, Find X9 Ultra, X9 Pro, Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, iPhone 17 Pro, or the iPad Pro M4. It has Fast Pair, so it's about as easy to connect it to an Android device. There's also USB-C and 3.5mm connectivity if you want to plug the headset in, and my favorite inclusion is a USB-C receiver that lets me use the headset with my Windows machine.

I don't like using Bluetooth with Windows; my Gigabyte motherboard has a Bluetooth modem that's built clearly as an afterthought, because it is flaky at the best of times. As such, the convenience of being able to use a receiver to connect the headset with Windows is just great, and I like that Jabra went with USB-C. You also get USB-C and 3.5mm cables in the box, and I like the attention to detail that the brand lavished when it comes to connectivity.

Jabra Evolve3 85 review on Android Central
Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central
Jabra Evolve3 85 review on Android Central
Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central
Jabra Evolve3 85 review on Android Central
Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central
Jabra Evolve3 85 review on Android Central
Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central

Connectivity is a big part of what makes a work-related headset stand out, and the Evolve3 85 excels in this area. Oh, and you can easily change the battery itself, should you need to down the line. I like tech that's built to last, and given that batteries tend to degrade over time, they're usually the biggest point of failure in a headset, so it's good to see Jabra addressing the issue.

There are other niceties as well; Jabra's ClearVoice does a good job tuning out ambient noises when you're talking, and it holds up astonishingly well. I use NVIDIA Broadcast to do the same, but ClearVoice is a good enough alternative. On that note, it has dedicated ANC as well, and it does an effective job blocking sounds in your surroundings if you're in a meeting or outdoors. The headset pairs with whichever digital assistant you use on your phone, and there are physical controls.

Jabra Evolve3 85 review on Android Central
Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central
Jabra Evolve3 85 review on Android Central
Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central
Jabra Evolve3 85 review on Android Central
Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central
Jabra Evolve3 85 review on Android Central
Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central

Sound quality is pretty good, too. Honestly, given how much Jabra positioned this as a work headset, I didn't think it would sound as good as its rivals, but the 32mm drivers do a great job. You get a detailed sound with plenty of bass, clean mids, and a tight treble. It's obviously built for meetings, but the headset is just as effective at extended music listening sessions. In fact, the only problem is that you don't get AptX codecs — it is limited to SBC and AAC.

Another thing Jabra does well is charging tech; the Evolve3 85 includes wireless charging, and I didn't realize just how convenient this is until I used the headset — I now want all of my Bluetooth headsets to have this as standard. There's fast charging too, with a 5-minute charge delivering five hours of power. The headset lasts well over 23 hours of meetings, with regular music listening at 60 hours — double that of Bose and Sony. Basically, you'll only need to charge it once a week even if you use it all day.

Jabra Evolve3 85 review on Android Central

(Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

You get six mics in total, and they use MEMS solid-state tech, delivering better fidelity and low distortion. I attended dozens of meetings with the Evolve3 85 over Google Meet, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams, and the headset did a brilliant job.

While the Evolve3 85 is targeted as a work headset, it is just as great to listen to music or podcasts, and the lightweight design combined with all the extra features gives it a unique advantage you just don't see in this category.

Jabra Evolve3 85 headset render

Jabra
Evolve3 85

With a highly comfortable design, great sound quality, and unique features designed for meetings, the Evolve3 85 is the best work headset around.

  •  

I can buy cheap Amazon earbuds with volume controls for far less than Apple's step-up AirPods 5 model — how is it getting away with this?

On our podcast I’m known as the Apple hater, but over the past year I’ve let up a little — even defended the company.

I’ve said Apple could be the only company capable of releasing camera glasses without major backlash thanks to privacy-first approach, celebrated its approach to AI as possibly genius if the bubble does pop, and most recently said the iPhone Duo looks great and that the visible crease in some shots should be ignored — as if it’s like the Z Fold 8 Ultra you’ll never see it while you’re using it.

But in our most recent episode, I saw something that I couldn’t believe in the new AirPods 5 specs. I had to actually message our Audio Editor because I thought I must be wrong.

How are on-bud volume controls only now coming to AirPods? And how are they reserved for the pricier model?

Take back (volume) control

I brought this up in the podcast, but my Apple-wielding colleagues — Axel Metz and Matt Evans — argued the feature isn’t that useful anyway. Those with Pro-level AirPods that boast volume controls noted that they rarely use them

Folks, that’s beside the point.

Volume controls are one of the most basic earbuds functions. Take a minute to scroll through Amazon, and you can find dozens of wireless earbuds under $20 that offer volume controls. This shouldn’t be something reserved for the fifth generation of a premium earbuds brand like AirPods. It’s absurd!

Oh, and I think volume controls on the buds are useful, for what it’s worth. If I’ve set my phone up to watch a YouTube video and the volume spikes, I want to be able to quickly swipe down without reaching over; or I might want to change the volume of my workout tunes mid-session without pulling my phone out and risking getting distracted.

Sure, it’s not a game changer, but as I said already, it’s a basic feature we should expect. It would be like if your iPhone didn’t have an email app — there are ways around it, but why cut off the root of the problem?

Apple iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max Hands-On

Perhaps I shouldn't give Apple ideas (Image credit: Jacob Krol/Future)

What really grinds my gears, however, is that volume controls still aren’t truly standard. If you get the base $129 / £119 / AU$219 AirPods, you’ll be out of luck — you need to pay extra for the $149 / £139 / AU$249 model with a wireless charging case.

This isn’t anywhere near as egregious as those ridiculously expensive Mac Pro wheels from early 2020 — back when we could worry about such trivialities in the ‘before times’ — but it feels like a remnant of Apple’s arrogance, and the quality that has put me off the company’s tech for all these years.

People can get the earbuds they want, and I’m sure the AirPods 5 will be just as solid as the previous generation. But when there are so many excellent audio options out there, my philosophy is to get a pair that respects you, offers genuine value for money, and won’t nickel-and-dime you for features that should have been added back in the first-generation model — not as an upcharge on the fifth-generation iteration.

  •  

Airpods: Das sind die neuen Funktionen in iOS 27

Das wohl größte Kunststück der Airpods ist, dass sie mit jedem iOS-Update neue Funktionen erhalten, ohne dass sich die Hardware ändern muss: 2024 wurden sie zu (rudimentären) Hörgeräten, mit iOS 26 kam die Live-Übersetzung. So ist es wenig verwunderlich, dass die Airpods auch mit iOS 27 neue Funktionen erhalten, für die Sie keine neuen Kopfhörer kaufen müssen.

Wenn Sie möchten, können Sie diese Funktionen bereits jetzt mit der iOS-27-Beta testen – oder Sie warten noch etwa einen Monat, bis iOS 27 für alle erscheint.

Auf folgende neue Funktionen dürfen Sie sich freuen:

iOS 27: Das sind die neuen Airpods-Funktionen

Equalizer

Vielleicht liegt es daran, dass Apple mit dem neuen Klangprofil der Airpods Pro 3 auf viel Missmut gestoßen ist, vielleicht war es aber auch so an der Zeit: Mit iOS 27 spendiert Apple den Airpods endlich einen Equalizer. Natürlich dürfen Sie hier keinen umfangreichen 7-Band-Equalizer wie bei anderen Herstellern erwarten, aber die drei Frequenzbereiche, die Apple anzupassen erlaubt, sind besser als nichts.

Der Equalizer setzt den H2-Chip voraus und ist daher für die Airpods Pro 2, die Airpods Pro 3, die Airpods 4, Airpods 5 und die Airpods Max 2 verfügbar. Sie finden ihn unter Einstellungen > [Name Ihrer Airpods] > Audio & Routing > Equalizer.

Überarbeitete Einstellungen

Wenn Sie sich für den Equalizer in die Airpods-Einstellungen begeben, werden Ihnen vielleicht einige Veränderungen auffallen. Bestand der Bereich bisher aus einer mehr oder weniger willkürlichen Liste von Funktionen und Einstellungen, hat Apple ihn in iOS 27 ordentlich aufgeräumt. Die verschiedenen Einstellungen sind jetzt sinnvoll nach Unterkategorien gruppiert und daher deutlich übersichtlicher.

Aktuell bester Preis: Airpods Pro 3

Shop
Preis
Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide

Anpassungen für adaptiven Modus

Wo wir gerade bei Einstellungen sind: Mit iOS 27 erweitert Apple die Noise-Cancelling-Einstellungen der Airpods. Verwenden Sie den adaptiven Modus, der die aktive Geräuschunterdrückung abhängig von den Umgebungsgeräuschen dynamisch anpasst, können Sie ihn nun so einstellen, dass er näher am Transparenzmodus oder an der Geräuschunterdrückung arbeitet.

Dafür gibt es sowohl in den Einstellungen im Bereich „Hörmodus“ als auch im Kontrollzentrum, ein neues Interface. Ist das mittlere Symbol – der adaptive Modus – ausgewählt, erscheint zwischen den beiden äußeren Symbolen – Transparenzmodus links und Geräuschunterdrückung rechts – ein neuer Regler, auf dem Sie das Symbol für den adaptiven Modus in mehreren Stufen verschieben und so seinen Ausgangspunkt in die eine oder andere Richtung verschieben können.

Im Kontrollzentrum müssen Sie bei verbundenen Airpods lange die Lautstärkeanzeige gedrückt halten und dann auf das Hörmodus-Symbol unten links drücken, damit die Modusauswahl erscheint. Die granulare Anpassung des adaptiven Modus ist logischerweise nur auf Airpods verfügbar, die den adaptiven Modus selbst unterstützen, also die Airpods Pro 2, die Airpods Pro 3, die Airpods 4 (ANC), beide Airpods-5-Modelle, die Airpods Max 1 und die Airpods Max 2.

Bedienungshilfen – Namenerkennung

Verwenden Sie die Airpods als Hörhilfe, erhalten Sie mit iOS 27 eine neue Funktion: Erkennen die Airpods dass Sie jemand mit Ihrem Namen anspricht, werden Sie benachrichtigt, um Sie darauf aufmerksam zu machen. Die Funktion können Sie mithilfe eines Schalters unter Einstellungen > Bedienungshilfen > Geräusch- & Namenserkennung (im Abschnitt „Hören“) aktivieren.

Siri AI

Sobald die neue Siri – Siri AI – verfügbar ist, können Sie auch mit der neuen Version sprechen, wie jetzt mit der alten. Das funktioniert viel besser, da Siri AI jetzt auch natürliche Sprache versteht.

Der Wermutstropfen: Aktuell versteht Siri AI ausschließlich Englisch – andere Sprachen werden zeitnah nachgereicht, erklärt Apple – und außerdem läuft sie in der EU aus regulatorischen Gründen nur auf dem Mac und Apple TV. Wann Siri AI auch auf dem iPhone und iPad verfügbar sein wird – die Europäische Kommission bezeichnet sie wegen ihrer Marktmacht als „Gatekeeper“ –, ist unbekannt.

Aktuell bester Preis: Airpods 5 (mit kabellosem Ladecase)

Shop
Preis
Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide

Fitnessdaten ohne Apple Watch

Apple hat den Airpods Pro 3 einen Herzfrequenzsensor spendiert, sodass Sie die entsprechenden Trainingsdaten auch ohne Apple Watch registrieren können. Mit iOS 27 erlaubt Apple mithilfe des dem zugrundeliegenden „Gymkit“-Frameworks obendrein, die Herzfrequenzdaten der Airpods Pro 3 mit kompatiblen Trainingsgeräten zu teilen.

Ortung mit Apple Watch

Ebenfalls den Airpods Pro 3 vorbehalten ist die Möglichkeit der präzisen Ortung, denn als einzige Airpods verfügen sie über einen Ultrabreitband-Chip (UWB) im Ladecase, mit dessen Hilfe Sie Airpods sehr viel genauer orten können, wenn Sie sich in der Nähe befinden. Bisher mussten Sie dafür Ihr iPhone verwenden, ab iOS 27 können Sie es auch mit einer kompatiblen Apple Watch. Ausgenommen aller SE-Modelle unterstützt diese Funktion jede Apple Watch seit der Series 6.

Aktuell bester Preis: Airpods Max 2

Shop
Preis
Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide

  •  

Nothing's Headphone 1 is going Pro? Rumors allege upgrades and a 'premium' feel are possible

What you need to know

  • Rumors now say Nothing is getting closer to a new audio product launch dubbed the "Headphone 1 Pro" late in September.
  • The device could enter a more premium aesthetic for consumers with a $399 price tag, 60 hours battery life, improved ANC, and a triple audio driver setup.
  • The original Headphone 1 were pretty good, and could've arguably been one of the best (if not the best) audio product of 2025.

Nothing's first over-ear headphones made a splash when they debuted. Now, rumors suggest the company wants to make even more noise with a "Pro" model.

Late this week, a post by Dealabs suggests Nothing is developing a "Headphone 1 Pro" model, and a launch could be closer than we think (via 9to5Google). As with any device, especially one marked by "Pro," design changes/improvements are possible. The publication claims the Pro headphones could feature "aluminum and glass" on their body. The idea could be to not only separate the Pro from the base model, but also to solidify a "premium" aesthetic, as the post notes.

White and black colorways are supposedly likely once this (allegedly) hits the market around September 29, 2026. However, rumors claim Nothing plans to make the Pro tag matter with a triple audio driver. Improved bass, sharper audio precision, and improved treble were mentioned.

Whispers allege real-time "adaptive" ANC that could outshine the original's. Battery life is another highlight. The Pro model could offer 60 hours of playback time. What's not clear is whether this is with ANC active or not. The original model could run for 35 hours with ANC on and 80 hours with it off. If this higher number concerns the former, that could be a huge boon to consumers.

There's nothing official, but rumors claim the Headphone 1 Pro could run consumers $399 in the U.S.

The original model was good

Nothing Headphone 1 testing on Android Central

(Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)
Android Central's Take

The idea of a Pro headphone from Nothing sounds intriguing. I'm not really a fan of wearing over-ear headphones out or away from my computer. I'm a gamer, so that's usually when I'll ever wear something like this. But there's a huge market for over-ear headphones. Music is probably the best thing for them. You can connect them to your phone, get a workout in, or hop on the bus or train and immerse yourself in sound. That's what I'd like from Nothing. If it's going Pro, go immersive, too.

If you take a quick step back to when the Headphone 1 launched, Nothing stuck them with a $299 price tag in the U.S. The Pro model would ask for ~$100 more, if we're to believe these early rumors. Anyway, Nothing wanted to make a bold statement with these headphones. The device brought back real, physical buttons, rollers, and paddles that make the experience more manageable.

There were pieces of aluminum that accented the Headphone 1. The Pro version could take that up a bit, and with more glass, too. In our experience, the Headphone 1 was a good piece of hardware. In fact, it was arguably one of the best audio products of 2025. Considering the positioning of the controls, the Headphone 1 made it easy to control our music. What's more, since these buttons are physical, we avoided those accidental song skips or pauses.

Nothing equipped the Headphone 1 with "a custom 40mm driver with sound tuned by KEF" that sounded "amazing," per Android Central's Harish Jonnalagadda.

  •  

AirPods 5 just pulled off the impossible for Apple — more features, lower price

While the major headlines from Apple’s September event were understandably on the iPhone Duo foldable, one of the standout announcements for me concerns the AirPods 5.

Apple’s non-Pro series of earbuds are once again available in two flavours, with a few, admittedly useful, features separating the two. Perhaps the biggest shock, however, is that both the AirPods 5 and AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case (that name will eventually become annoying to type out) cost less than the previous AirPods 4 with ANC.

The two-year-old model launched at AU$299. The new AirPods 5 models can be yours for AU$219 and AU$249. Given the fact that Apple has been no stranger to price hikes in recent times, it’s quite remarkable that the popular AirPods got a price cut.

More impressive still, both models introduce notable upgrades over their predecessors. Apple is claiming industry-leading ANC for an open-ear design, alongside a richer, more detailed sound, with support for Personalised Spatial Audio. Apple also claims they’re more durable than before, and you also gain access to Live Translation (previously a Pro-only feature), Adaptive EQ and up to five hours of playtime with ANC on.

The AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case not only get a wireless charging case (shock) but also on-stem volume control. Take it from me as an AirPods Pro 3 user, this feature alone is worth its weight in gold — it’s so intuitive to use!

The Apple AirPods 5 and AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case (yep, still annoying to type) will be available from September 18, and you can preorder them today from the following retailers. Amazon would be my top choice, as you can save a couple of dollars on RRP.

AirPods 5 deals in Australia

AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case deals in Australia

While the pricing of the AirPods 5 is commendable, I also have to bring your attention to the AirPods Pro 3, which are available for AU$347 at the time of writing at Amazon.

AirPods Pro 3: was $429 now $347
They did drop to a low of AU$299 during Prime Day, but this is still a great price on Apple’s flagship earbuds. They deliver best-in-class noise cancellation and a rich, full-bodied sound. While the AirPods 5 now also get the same Live Translation, the Pro 3s also rock a heart-rate sensor and longer battery life of up to 10 hours. View Deal

  •  

Nothing Headphone (1) Pro Leaked: Triple-Driver Audio, 60-Hour Battery and September 29 Launch

Nothing appears to be preparing a more premium version of its over-ear headphone lineup. According to information reported by Dealabs, the company is expected to introduce the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro in the coming weeks, with a European price of €349 and a U.S. price of $399. Nothing’s move into premium headphones also gives the brand another way to extend its distinctive Nothing’s transparent design language beyond smartphones and earbuds.

The new model is reportedly scheduled to launch on September 29, positioning it firmly in the premium wireless headphone market rather than the entry-level segment.

Nothing’s Transparent Design Gets a Premium Treatment

The Headphone (1) Pro is expected to continue Nothing’s recognizable design language, including the brand’s semi-transparent aesthetic. The headphones are reportedly offered in black and white, while the construction combines an aluminum body with scratch-resistant glass elements.

The headset is also said to carry an IP52 rating, providing some protection against dust and light water exposure. While that rating does not make the headphones suitable for heavy rain or water immersion, it could provide additional peace of mind during everyday use.

Triple-Driver System Could Be the Biggest Upgrade

One of the most interesting features of the Headphone (1) Pro is its reported three-driver audio architecture. Instead of relying on a conventional single-driver setup, the headphones are expected to use separate drivers to handle different parts of the frequency range.

The high-frequency section could use an XMEMS driver, a technology designed around extremely fast mechanical response and precise high-frequency reproduction. If implemented as reported, the combination could give Nothing a stronger technical selling point against other premium wireless headphones.

The company is also reportedly working with Metropolis Studios, a well-known London recording and mastering facility, on the headphone’s tuning. That collaboration could help Nothing pursue a more studio-oriented sound profile rather than simply emphasizing heavy bass or consumer-friendly sound.

10 Microphones and Adaptive ANC

The Headphone (1) Pro is expected to include 10 microphones, which could support both active noise cancellation and voice-related functions.

The headphones are reportedly equipped with adaptive active noise cancellation (adaptive ANC) that can adjust to surrounding conditions. A transparency mode is also expected, allowing users to hear environmental sounds without removing the headphones.

This combination should make the Headphone (1) Pro more practical for commuting, office use and other situations where users may need to switch between immersive listening and environmental awareness.

Hi-Res Audio, LDAC and More Sound Controls

For wireless audio, the new headphones are expected to support LDAC and Hi-Res Audio, potentially giving compatible devices access to higher-quality Bluetooth audio transmission.

Nothing is also reportedly preparing a Flat EQ option alongside more advanced sound-adjustment features. The company may position these controls toward listeners who want greater control over how their music sounds rather than relying solely on preset profiles.

The reported involvement of Metropolis Studios further suggests that audio quality will be one of the major selling points of the Pro model.

Bluetooth 6.1 and a 3.5mm Headphone Jack

Connectivity is another area where the Headphone (1) Pro could stand out. The headset is reportedly expected to use Bluetooth 6.1, while also retaining a 3.5mm audio jack.

The wired connection will be useful for listeners who prefer a direct audio connection, want to avoid Bluetooth compression, or need to connect the headphones to devices without wireless audio support.

The combination of modern Bluetooth connectivity and a traditional wired input also gives the headphones greater flexibility across different listening environments.

Up to 60 Hours of Battery Life

Battery life could be another major advantage. The Headphone (1) Pro is reportedly capable of delivering up to 60 hours of playback, although real-world endurance will likely depend on factors such as ANC usage, volume level, codec selection and connection mode.

The headphones are also expected to support fast charging, allowing users to restore listening time without keeping the headset connected to power for long periods.

Nothing Headphone (1) Pro: What to Expect

Based on the leaked information, the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro could be a significant step beyond a typical lifestyle-focused wireless headset. Its combination of a three-driver audio system, XMEMS technology, 10 microphones, adaptive ANC, LDAC, Bluetooth 6.1 and up to 60 hours of battery life gives it a specification sheet aimed squarely at the premium market.

The reported €349 European price and $399 U.S. price would also put it in direct competition with established premium headphone brands.

Nothing has yet to officially confirm all of these specifications, so the final hardware, features and regional pricing should be treated as unconfirmed until the company makes its announcement. If the September 29 launch date is accurate, more official details should emerge soon.

The post Nothing Headphone (1) Pro Leaked: Triple-Driver Audio, 60-Hour Battery and September 29 Launch appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

  •  

Open-Ear Earphones With Bluetooth 6.0: 14mm Drivers, Battery Life and Everyday Use

As wireless earbuds continue to get smaller, comfort and awareness of your surroundings can become just as important as compact size. The Zombies Cat B22 takes a different route with an open-ear earclip design that rests around the ear instead of blocking the ear canal. Combined with Bluetooth 6.0 and large 14mm drivers, the B22 is designed for users who want wireless audio while staying more connected to their surroundings during everyday activities and workouts.

That design is paired with Bluetooth 6.0, 14mm dynamic drivers, claimed 720° panoramic sound, a built-in microphone, and a small warm-colored safety light. Instead of trying to compete purely on conventional earbuds specifications, the B22 is designed around the idea of keeping music available while maintaining a more open connection with the surrounding environment.

According to the Banggood listing, the B22 supports Bluetooth 6.0, uses 14mm speakers, offers up to 4.5 hours of playback from the earbuds themselves and up to 20 hours when combined with the charging case.

The B22’s biggest idea is its open-ear design

The most interesting part of the Zombies Cat B22 is not actually Bluetooth 6.0. It is the way the earphones are worn.

Rather than pushing an earbud into the ear canal, the B22 uses an earclip-style open-ear structure. This can be appealing to people who dislike the plugged-in sensation of traditional in-ear headphones or want to remain more aware of their surroundings while listening.

That makes the B22 sports headphones particularly relevant to walking, commuting, cycling and other situations where completely isolating yourself from environmental sound may not be desirable.

It also changes the way the headphones should be evaluated. The goal is not simply maximum isolation. Instead, the B22 is built around a balance between personal audio and environmental awareness.

14mm drivers give the B22 a larger audio foundation

Inside the compact earphones are 14mm dynamic drivers.

A larger driver does not automatically guarantee better sound, but it gives the B22 a substantial hardware foundation for producing bass, vocals and higher-frequency details. For an open-ear design, that can be particularly important because there is no sealed ear canal to create the same acoustic conditions as conventional in-ear headphones.

The product listing describes the 14mm drivers as being designed for a broad soundstage with stronger bass and clear treble.

The stated frequency response is 20Hz–20kHz, covering the commonly specified range for consumer headphones.

What does “720° surround sound” mean here?

The B22 also promotes 720° panoramic sound, which is one of its more unusual specifications.

This should be understood as a spatial-audio presentation rather than literally having sound physically travel in every direction around the listener. The idea is to create a wider and more immersive sense of positioning than conventional stereo playback.

That could make movies, games and music feel more spacious, although the real-world effect will depend on the recording, device and listening environment.

For buyers, the more meaningful takeaway is that Zombies Cat is positioning the B22 as an immersive open-ear headphone, rather than a basic wireless sports earbud.

Bluetooth 6.0 focuses on connection and responsiveness

The B22 uses Bluetooth 6.0 and supports HSP, HFP, A2DP and AVRCP profiles. The listed transmission distance is up to 10 meters.

For everyday users, the important part is less about the Bluetooth version number itself and more about how the headphones fit into daily use.

Bluetooth 6.0 is intended to provide a modern wireless connection, while the supported profiles cover common functions such as music playback, hands-free communication and remote media control.

The listing also highlights low latency for gaming and video. That makes the B22 potentially more versatile than headphones designed exclusively for music listening, although actual latency can vary depending on the connected phone, computer or game system.

The built-in warm light is more than decoration

One of the B22’s most distinctive physical features is its integrated warm safety light.

The light is positioned as a visibility feature for activities such as night running and cycling. Rather than functioning purely as an RGB-style visual effect, the concept is to make the wearer easier to notice in darker surroundings.

This is a clever addition because open-ear headphones are already aimed at active users. A small visibility feature gives the design another practical purpose.

However, the light should be considered an additional visibility aid rather than a replacement for proper cycling or running safety equipment.

Battery life is designed around shorter daily sessions

The B22 uses a 40mAh battery in each earphone and a 300mAh charging case.

Banggood lists approximately 4.5 hours of playback from the earbuds alone and up to 20 hours with the charging case. Charging the case and earbuds is listed at around one hour.

That makes the B22 better suited to several shorter listening sessions than extremely long continuous use.

For example, a commute, workout, walk or evening gaming session can fit comfortably within the stated earbud runtime. Once the earbuds are returned to the case, the additional battery capacity extends the overall listening time.

As always, actual runtime can vary with volume, connection conditions and other usage factors.

The earclip format makes the B22 a sports-oriented headphone

The B22 weighs approximately 43 grams as listed for the product, with dimensions of 60 × 28 × 52mm.

Its physical design is clearly aimed at people who want something different from conventional TWS earbuds.

The earclip structure avoids the need for a traditional silicone ear tip, while the open-ear configuration can make the headphones more suitable for users who prefer a less enclosed listening experience.

That said, fit is highly personal. An earclip that feels secure for one person may not feel identical for another, so the B22’s design should be viewed as an alternative to conventional earbuds rather than a universal replacement.

A microphone makes it useful beyond music

The B22 includes a built-in microphone and supports the standard Bluetooth calling profiles listed by Banggood.

This means the headphones can also be used for calls and voice communication rather than functioning only as a music player.

For people who frequently switch between podcasts, music, phone calls and video content, that makes the B22 a more practical everyday accessory.

Who should consider the Zombies Cat B22?

The B22 makes the most sense for users who specifically want an open-ear Bluetooth headphone rather than a conventional sealed earbud.

It could be particularly interesting for:

  • Runners and walkers who prefer an open listening style
  • Cyclists looking for headphones with an additional visibility feature
  • Commuters who dislike the pressure of in-ear tips
  • Users who want larger drivers in an open-ear design
  • People interested in Bluetooth 6.0 headphones
  • Gamers and video viewers looking for a more spacious audio presentation

It may be less suitable for someone whose first priority is strong passive isolation or deep noise blocking, because the open-ear concept is fundamentally designed around a different listening experience.

Zombies Cat B22 specifications

Feature Zombies Cat B22
Wearing style Open-ear earclip
Bluetooth Bluetooth 6.0
Driver 14mm dynamic driver
Frequency response 20Hz–20kHz
Claimed audio feature 720° panoramic sound
Bluetooth profiles HSP / HFP / A2DP / AVRCP
Transmission distance Up to 10m
Earbud battery 40mAh
Charging case 300mAh
Earbud playback Up to 4.5 hours
Total playback with case Up to 20 hours
Charging time About 1 hour
Microphone Yes
Product weight About 43g
Product dimensions 60 × 28 × 52mm
Colors Black, Red, Beige

The specifications above are based on the product information currently published by Banggood.

Final thoughts

Zombies Cat B22 earphone is interesting because it does not try to be another ordinary pair of TWS earbuds.

Its combination of an open-ear earclip structure, 14mm dynamic drivers, Bluetooth 6.0 and built-in warm safety lighting gives it a clearly defined identity. The claimed 720° panoramic sound is another attempt to make the listening experience more immersive without returning to a conventional closed-in design.

The real appeal of the Zombies Cat B22 is not simply its specifications, but the way its open-ear design fits into everyday listening. By leaving the ear canal open, the B22 can be a useful alternative for running, commuting, walking or casual listening when staying aware of nearby sounds is important. For users who prefer a less isolated listening experience than traditional in-ear earbuds provide, the B22 offers a distinctive combination of comfort, situational awareness and wireless convenience.

The post Open-Ear Earphones With Bluetooth 6.0: 14mm Drivers, Battery Life and Everyday Use appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

  •  

Apple's big AirPods 5 launch event might be over, but its most anticipated headphones may well arrive later this month

  • Evidence points to Beats 360 coming later in September
  • That's despite Beats' owner, Apple, having just hosted a big launch event
  • We now know a lot about these new headphones too…

While the AirPods 5 upgrades offer you the best features of the AirPods Pro, they were small consolation at an Apple Event in which people were hoping for more sweeping audio upgrades. No AirPods with cameras, no HomePods upgrade despite teases, and no new Beats headphones.

However, that latter point could be addressed later in the month. How come? because according to MacRumors, Apple just released a firmware update for the Beats 360 headphones. Yes, that same pair of Beats 360 headphones we've been hearing rumors about for months, but that have yet to be officially announced.

Why is Apple updating headphones that don't exist? Well, bear in mind we've been seeing them for months, as Apple gave them to multiple soccer World Cup players to show off during the tournament. Celebrity sportspeople need their tech updating too, after all.

There's no indication of what this update does, and it doesn't really matter. It's all about what this update suggests.

A Beats 360 release date just around the corner?

Because of this recent software update, many now think that the Beats 360 are due to be unveiled at some point in September.

While Apple already has just had its big product unveiling event of the year (on September 9, around 14 hours ago at the time of writing), that doesn't rule out new Beats devices. Apple generally lets its Beats sub-brand operate independently.

In fact, it would've been pretty bizarre if we had seen the Beats 360 shown off at the Apple event, for this fact.

We know a lot about how the Beats 360 look, thanks to plenty of leaks (and, of course, the fact that they were literally on the necks, heads and bags of a few soccer players months ago). They sound like a big step up from what we've seen, but as the launch of a new range, it's hard to know how they'll stack up to existing models.

Beats' last product launch was in October 2025, when it showed off the Powerbeats Fit, so maybe we'll see the brand take the same late-September-early-October window for its new device. Or devices? We've only heard about the Beats 360, but that doesn't rule out siblings of other form factors.

  •  

AirPods 5 and AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging are like a greatest hits rollout of AirPods Pro — just without the hearing health or heart-rate modules

  • Two AirPods 5 models: 50% better ANC, Adaptive Audio and Live Translation
  • A step up model boasts wireless charging and volume swipeable stems
  • $129 / £129 for AirPods 5; $149 / £149 for AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging

If you watched our Apple event coverage, you'll know that Apple's decided to double up on its non-Pro AirPods rollout as it did before, and each model within the new AirPods 5 duo features ANC, whether you really felt you wanted it or not.

And Apple definitely wants you to want it, because along with an "all-new multiport acoustic architecture" in this open-fit style, the company claims the new onboard ANC will remove up to 50% more external noise compared to AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation.

One of the key upgrades here is Live Translation inclusion in both sets (previously the sole preserve of the Pro lineup) as well as Personalised Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ. And the new battery now offers up to 20 hours in total with ANC (up to five hours from the buds themselves, which is an hour more than their older siblings, or four with ANC) or up to 22 hours if listening without ANC.

True, it's still not great in the stamina stakes. But this really is Apple's entry-level AirPods offering and for some, cash (not battery life) is king.

Screenshot from Apple's September 2026 event

(Image credit: Apple)

Also, it's worth pointing out while Live Translation and Adaptive EQ is here, there are none of those rumored cameras, low-res or otherwise — even in the top-tier option. We didn't expect them 'til 2027 and it turns out we were right to stick to that.

Although Audio Intelligence and Siri Recap did launch at the event, these are software upgrades meant to help enhance what you hear (and in some cases, transcribe it, although the promise is that Apple will neither record, nor store said information). Anyway, no, Apple eyes in your ears are still a way off yet.

It's been nearly two years since AirPods 5's predecessors launched (where does the time go?) but the original AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation were priced at $179 / £179 / AU$299 when they landed on September 20, 2024. And no such pricing exists now. That's right, both models are cheaper.

The company knows that change isn't always good when it comes to the delicate topic of coin, so it hasn't troubled us with new figures in the standard set, which will sell for the original basic model's $129 / £129 (likely AU$199) asking fee.

And the step-up model? That will cost $149 / £149 (around AU$209), so less than the original AirPods 4 with ANC.

Apple's 'pay for what you want (and enjoy what you buy)' is refreshing

Screenshot from Apple's September 2026 event

(Image credit: Apple)

OK, no cameras, no hearing health suite and of course no heart-rate monitoring, but you have to hand it to Apple. It's like someone at an Apple Park board meeting stood up and said, "Why don't we just let fans of AirPods pick their perks?" You love to see it.

Want on-volume stem swiping? It has been added it to the step-up model! A case that supports wireless charging? That's also in the $20 / £20 more expensive option. In isolation these upgrades don't feel too significant, but for me these choices are bang on — every little win adds a little value, no?

I'd plump for the set with the on-volume stems for sure. I know that for me, this is a perk worth paying for, and it's the first time Apple's added it to its open-fit earbuds design. For clarity, this design sits in your concha (or ear well) and does not require the ear-tips of the AirPods Pro lineup to create a secure seal within your ear canal.

I've lost count of the number of times I've knocked cheap earbuds — and even pricier ones — for making me dig out my phone when I need to lower the volume, and for me this is a key perk. Thanks, AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging!

  •  

Good news: Apple almost totally dodged inflation on the new iPhones, AirPods and Watches — bad news: the price of all other iPhones just got jacked up

Earlier this year, many Apple products (but not iPhones, AirPods or Watches) were hit with a huge set of price hikes. And then, more recently, Apple unveiled its new Mac mini range, which also comes at a 50% higher starting price than just five months before.

This left me (and probably a lot of other people) fearing the worst about the prices of the new stuff coming at Apple's September 2026 event.

But as we watched new products being announced that were the same price, or actually better value, than their predecessors, I felt like I was watching Neo dodging RAM-ageddon bullets… even though the iPhone 18 Pro price rose (check out our full list of iPhone price hikes), it felt reasonable.

But then, just like Neo, we got clipped and dropped to the ground by the fact that Apple quietly increased the price sof all its older phones following the event. Here's the new pricing for those models:

The increased iPhone prices

Model

New starting price

Old starting price

iPhone 17

$899 / £899

$799 / £799

iPhone Air

$1,099 / £1,099

$999 / £999

iPhone 17e

$699 / £699

$599 / £599

iPhone 16

$799 / £799

$699 / £699

Let's run through how well we did in different areas in the US and UK prices (it may differ elsewhere, of course).

Apple's launch prices compared

New product

Launch price

Comparison model

Launch price

Apple Watch Series 12

$399 / £369

Apple Watch Series 11

$399 / £369

Apple Watch Ultra Series 4

$799 / £749

Apple Watch Ultra Series 3

$799 / £749

AirPods 5

$129 / £119

AirPods 4

$129 / £119

AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case

$149 / £139

AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation

$179 / $169

iPhone 18 Pro

$1,199 / £1,199

iPhone 17 Pro

$1,099 / £1,099

iPhone 18 Pro Max

$1,299 / £1,299

iPhone 17 Pro Max

$1,199 / £1,199

iPhone Duo

$1,999 / £1,999

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra

$2,099 / £1,899

Apple Watch

A nice easy win here — we got new features across both the new regular model and the new Ultra, and we got them for the same price as the previous model. That's pretty great given the levels of inflation we're dealing with.

The only potentially offputting thing is Apple's slightly new always-listening Siri Recap option, now — but not the price, mercifully.

AirPods 5

These were the big win on value, in my opinion. When reporting on the AirPods 5 rumors, we said that we really wanted to see Apple improve what you got for the money specifically, because its entry-level were behind the best budget earbuds from competitors.

Well, that's exactly what we got. The basic AirPods 5 now have active noise cancellation, and along with other improvements this should make them competitive again at the same price. And the mid-range AirPods 5 model get on-ear volume controls and a few other small quality-of-life upgrades, which makes them cheaper than last year's mid-range model. It's a win all around — and you can pre-order them today.

iPhone 18 Pro

This is where things get rockier — but both models have a relatively modest $100 price increase in the US, which is under 10%, and in the world of 2026, I'll take that.

Of course, they've also improved compared to the previous model, and from what Apple's saying the new variable aperture camera system and the much longer battery life provided by the (somehow also super-powerful) A20 Pro chip might be well worth the extra cash.

iPhone Duo

Look, do I think $1,999 is an appealing price for a phone? It's not what I'd choose to pay. I wasn't happy about the rumors of it being that high, but it was kind of inevitable. However, the iPhone Duo folding phone needs to be assessed in context — and that context is: the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra costs more in the US (in the UK, Samsung has the edge).

It only costs $100 more, I'll grant you, but a win is a win — and again, given the price rises elsewhere in Apple's range earlier this year, I think it was far from a given that its fancy folder was going to actually undercut the competition.

It's not all roses

Will we be as lucky with future releases? Perhaps not. It's notable that these product categories are some of the few that didn't get price rises in the hikes earlier this year.

We're expecting the Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini to get new versions soon, for example, and these will probably arrive with the same price the current models do… which were just jacked up significantly. Same for the rumored new entry-level iPad.

And then there's the small matter of Apple having raised the prices of all its existing iPhone models. Unlike the iPhone 18 Pro, those increases don't come with any hardware or performance upgrades — they're just more expensive.

And I assume this means we're not getting a base iPhone 18 at all, if all these phones are sticking around with higher prices.

  •  

Airpods 5 vorgestellt: Mehr Funktionen für weniger Geld

Apple hat soeben die Airpods 5 vorgestellt. An der Oberfläche hat sich nicht viel verändert – sie sehen im Grunde genauso aus wie die Modelle von Herbst 2024. Interessant sind die Neuerungen unter der Haube, auch wenn nichts davon wirklich bahnbrechend ist.

Prinzipiell bleibt Apple bei zwei Modellen der Airpods ohne „Pro“, allerdings kommen nun beide Modelle mit ANC. Effektiv schafft Apple also das Modell ohne ANC ab und rückt die beiden Modelle dadurch näher zusammen. Das teurere der beiden Modelle nähert sich außerdem weiter den Airpods Pro 3 an.

Grundsätzlich spricht Apple von einer neuen akustischen Architektur, wie sie es bei den Airpods Pro 3 vergangenes Jahr getan haben. Dadurch soll nicht zuletzt das ANC um 50 Prozent effektiver sein als bei den Vorgängern, bei denen wir schon vor zwei Jahren verblüfft waren, wie gut es funktioniert. Die Airpods 5 dürften damit zu den offenen In-Ear-Kopfhörern mit dem besten ANC gehören.

Da nun beide Modelle über ANC verfügen, ist die Unterscheidung nicht mehr Airpods (ohne ANC) und Airpods (mit ANC), sondern … Airpods 5 und Airpods 5 mit kabellosem Ladecase. Denn das ist einer von drei Unterschieden des teureren Modells zum günstigeren. Die anderen beiden sind eine längere Akkulaufzeit von bis zu 5 Stunden mit ANC und – endlich! – ein Lautstärkeregler in den Stielen, wie bei den Airpods Pro 3.

airpods 5 bento

Apple

Spannend wird es beim Preis: Das günstigere Modell bleibt bei 149 Euro, das teurere wird sogar um 30 Euro günstiger und kostet nur noch 169 Euro. Bei nur 20 Euro Unterschied muss man sich unserer Meinung nach nicht zweimal überlegen, welches der beiden Modelle man kauft, sondern greift direkt zu dem mit längerer Akkulaufzeit, dem kabellosen Ladecase und den Lautstärkereglern an den Stielen. Eigentlich hätte Apple die günstigere Variante direkt aus dem Sortiment schmeißen können.

Wenn Sie die Airpods Pro 2, Pro 3 oder Airpods 4 mit ANC besitzen und sie noch tadellos funktionieren, lohnt sich das Upgrade unserer Meinung nach trotzdem nicht. Für alle anderen oder für diejenigen, die nicht gut mit Silikonstöpseln der Airpods Pro zurechtkommen, sind die Airpods 5 empfehlenswert. Sie können die neuen Kopfhörer ab sofort vorbestellen, erhältlich sind sie ab dem 18. September,

  •  

iPhone 18 live blog: On the ground at Apple’s biggest event

John Ternus, now Apple’s CEO, at WWDC in 2019 as the company’s VP of hardware engineering. | Photo by Brittany Hosea-Small / AFP via Getty Images

It's not just time for any old Apple event, but one that's expected to usher in a new era for the company. This is the first iPhone keynote to be led by Apple's newly anointed CEO John Ternus, and all signs and rumors have been pointing to it being the one that also debuts a foldable iPhone. Ternus has already billed this as "a huge launch . . . that's going to be phenomenal." What bigger and flashier way to step into the limelight than with a new halo product of an iPhone?

We're also likely to hear about OS updates, Apple Watches, and possibly some AirPods. But this might be an unconventional event in more ways than one. It's also possible …

Read the full story at The Verge.

  •  

Audio-Technica just launched its first wireless open-back headphones with an affordable price-tag and 'noise reduction', and I must try them

  • Audio-Technica knows what it's doing with open-back headphones
  • However, this is the company's first ever wireless open-back offering
  • …and also, they feature active 'noise reduction'

All it takes is a quick glance at our Audio-Technica ATH-ADX700 review to know that Audio-Technica knows precisely how to make a great set of open-backed headphones.

That said, this is the first time the company is cutting the wire, when it comes to delivering such audio architecture. Today, (September 9), the company is expanding its open-back headphone line-up with the new ATH-AL5NC, its first ever wireless open-back headphones.

At their core are specially designed 53mm drivers, promising "detailed, expansive sound", while the open housings should improve airflow and reduce heat around the ears, if your closed-back cans often feel a little toasty.

Tipping the scales at 240g (for reference, the Sony WH-1000XM6 weigh 254g), they’re light too. Longer listening sessions at home should be comfortable, whether listening to your hi-res music, working or, as suggested by A-T, gaming.

And here's a new duo in this space: despite their open-back design, the ATH-AL5NC also feature Sound Leakage Reduction, helping to reduce the amount of sound escaping into those shared spaces (the London Underground carriages spring to mind), alongside "noise reduction" (available in wireless and wired modes) to minimize everyday background distractions.

Audio-Technica ATH-AL5NC: key specs and features

Audio-Technica headphones in muted lighting, worn by a man while gaming and also on a briefcase

(Image credit: Audio-Technica)

Want the cold, hard specs? Of course you do. Other key features include up to 75 hours of battery life, or 50 hours with noise reduction enabled (so it is an active technology, involving the creation of antiphase to counteract noise), plus up to eight hours of playback from a 15-minute quick charge.

You also get 24-bit/96 kHz high-resolution audio, LDAC support, multipoint connectivity for staying connected to two Bluetooth devices at once, a low-latency mode for gaming and video and an integrated microphone for calls and meetings. And those last four perks are not features you'll regularly find among audiophile-grade open-back headphones, or even the best wired headphones generally.

Customisable EQ and Soundscape modes are also available through the A-T Connect app and (of course) you get optional wired listening, with a bundled 1.2m cable featuring an in-line mic.

Something for our best noise-cancelling headphones buying guide? Not so fast; "noise isolation" is perhaps not quite the same as "noise cancellation", despite the 'NC' used in A-T's naming structure. Although the company hasn't expanded on this, adding true ANC in a set of headphones that are open through the ear cups (with perforated grilles to let sounds to move directly through their driver housings) really would be a feat of engineering.

The Audio-Technica ATH-AL5NC are available from today (September 9), priced at a refreshingly reasonable £219, which is around $299 or AU$410.

How good are they for this money? We're working on getting our hands on a set. As soon as we know, so shall you.

  •  

Apple Event 2026 live — new foldable iPhone Duo, AirPods 5, and more set to be announced

Apple's hotly anticipated ‘Surprise and Shine’ event is happening now, and we're on the ground in California bringing you all the big announcements as they happen.

Leading the list of rumored-to-be-unveiled products is Apple's first foldable iPhone — expected to be called either the iPhone Duo or iPhone Ultra — which, if it does arrive, would represent the biggest iPhone shake-up in recent history. This dual-screen device could also skyrocket the popularity of foldable phones more generally, so Samsung and Google executives are surely paying close attention.

Elsewhere, Apple looks set to refresh its wearable, earbud, and smart home lines with new Apple Watches, AirPods, and HomePods, respectively — and we may even see a new version of the Apple TV 4K, which hasn't been updated since 2022.

Proceedings kicked off at 10am PT / 1pm ET / 6pm BST — or 3am AEST on September 10 if you're in Australia — and you can follow along below for our live reaction to new CEO John Ternus' first-ever Apple Event.

Jump to the live updates here

Apple Event 2026 — rumored announcements

  • Foldable iPhone Duo (or Ultra)
  • iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max
  • Apple Watch Series 12
  • Apple Watch Ultra 4
  • AirPods 5
  • Apple TV 4K (2026)
  • HomePod mini 2

Apple Event 2026 — how to watch

Today's ‘Surprise and Shine’ Apple event is taking place at the Steve Jobs Theater in Apple Park, California, but you can follow along via the livestream video embedded above or via Apple’s official event page.

Proceedings kicked off at 10am PT / 1pm ET / 6pm BST, which is 3am AEST on September 10 if you're in Australia, but you'll be able to re-watch the stream once the event finishes (we're expecting things to wrap up around 12pm PT / 3pm ET / 8pm BST, or 5am AEST in Australia).

Live updates

Good morning, folks! It's Apple Day — the most important date in the annual tech calendar and the busiest day of the year for the TechRadar office (sigh).

I'll be bringing you the latest iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch rumors ahead of the event's kick-off later today, and trust me: there's a lot to cover.

First, a quick reminder of what's happening: Apple's ‘Surprise and Shine’ event is scheduled to start at 10am PT / 1pm ET / 6pm BST today (that's 3am AEST on September 10 if you're in Australia).

This is the 2026 edition of Apple's annual product showcase, and we're expecting to see as many as nine (yes, nine) new products unveiled.

Of those nine rumored products, the most hotly anticipated is Apple's first foldable iPhone, which we've been referring to as the 'iPhone Ultra' for close to a year now. But at the very last minute, the rumor mill has spat out an unexpected new name for this folding device...

Could the iPhone Ultra be the iPhone Duo?

According to seasoned Apple tipster Mark Gurman, the iPhone Ultra will in fact be called the iPhone Duo. It's pretty hard to believe that such a drastically different name has emerged just hours before the product itself is due to be unveiled — so we're still a tad skeptical about its authenticity — but Gurman has an excellent track record when it comes to Apple predictions.

Apple landed on the iPhone Duo name for the foldable iPhone and a $2,000 starting price, eating the additional memory costs. Storage capacities will reach 2 terabytes and roughly $3,000. It’ll ship in October, has support for the Apple Pencil and come in dark blue + white. https://t.co/58VLtVNka6September 9, 2026

Gurman adds in the same X post that the iPhone Duo will have a starting price of $2,000, rising to $3,000 for the 2TB model. And, yes, in case you were in any doubt: those numbers would make the Duo the most expensive iPhone of all time.

Another important note: Gurman says Apple's first foldable iPhone will have Apple Pencil support. Steve Jobs won't be happy...

Steve Jobs on stage announcing the original iPhone

(Image credit: Apple)

Let's talk AirPods

The open cases for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 held next to each other, showing the tops of the earbuds poking out

(Image credit: Future)

Moving away from the iPhone for the moment, let's talk AirPods. Today, we're expecting Apple to announce two new AirPods models: the AirPods 5 without ANC (active noise cancellation), and AirPods 5 with ANC.

Both models are set to use Apple's new H3 chipset, which should improve audio processing and reduce latency, though it remains to be seen how different the AirPods 5 with ANC will be from the AirPods Pro, which already offer ANC.

In any case, we're not expecting to see any camera-equipped AirPods launch today, despite rumors suggesting that such a product is indeed in development.

The Apple HomePod Mini on an orange background

(Image credit: Apple)

Today might also be the day we finally get a successor to the HomePod mini. This smaller, more affordable version of the standard Apple HomePod (which now exists as the HomePod 2) was released way back in November 2020, but hasn't been updated since.

More than 20 (!) new iPhones have launched in that same period, so to say the HomePod mini 2 has been a long time coming would be an understatement.

Rumored upgrades for the HomePod mini include a faster chipset (duh!), superior audio quality, and Siri AI functionality.

A clear message from Samsung

A Samsung advertising board in Piccadilly Circus

(Image credit: Samsung)

If you walk around London, New York, or Seoul today, you may spot Samsung's new tongue-in-cheek advertising campaign, dubbed ‘Welcome to Foldables’.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 manufacturer is clearly hoping to remind people that it has spent a decade developing foldable technology, and that Apple — if it does release its first foldable today — is late to the party.

That said, Samsung isn't totally against Apple's late entry into the foldables market. Speaking to Bloomberg last year, Samsung's President and COO of the company’s Mobile eXperience (MX) division, Won-joon Choi, said: "I think healthy competition with other companies will bring more innovations, and then bring more benefits to consumers. So we are welcoming others to join this category, which we created back in 2019 [...] Having another global company join this category, I think it's good for the industry, and also, it's going to be great for consumers."

Don't forget about the iPhone 18 Pro

A quick word on the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, which will likely be the forgotten children of today's Apple Event while also being the best-selling Apple products of the next 12 months.

Gurman says both phones will have smaller, more functional Dynamic Islands, an upgraded vapor chamber (read: they won't get as hot), and "major" new camera hardware. Rumors suggest a variable aperture feature could be chief among this new hardware, which would make the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max some of the best camera phones around.

The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will have a smaller and upgraded Dynamic Island that can support three tasks at once (up from two currently), major new pro camera hardware and software, plus an upgraded vapor chamber. https://t.co/58VLtVNka6September 9, 2026

iPhone Ultra concept image on a yellow background

(Image credit: Future)

Back to the iPhone Ultra/Duo/whatever you want to call it, let's talk about what features it reportedly won't have. According to various rumors, there's a chance Apple's first foldable will lack Face ID, a telephoto camera, MagSafe, the Action button, and a physical SIM card slot.

Now look, I can live without the Action button, a SIM card slot, and a telephoto camera, but no Face ID or MagSafe? I'm not sure I would spend $2,000 on an iPhone without those two features, which feel pretty essential to how I use my iPhone every day.

Thinking of selling your iPhone 17 Pro? Do so ASAP

Best iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max plans

(Image credit: Apple / Future)

Here's some last-minute advice for you: if you're planning on selling your current iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max to fund an upgrade to the iPhone 18 Pro line, you should head out to your local tech store and do so ASAP. Why? Because current iPhones could fall in value by up to 30% once the new models launch.

“Many people will make the mistake of waiting to see what new features the next iPhone range has before trading in their old device, but our data clearly shows that waiting just a few weeks could mean a significant hit on the amount customers can get for it," Joe Armstrong, Head of Trading at musicMagpie, tells TechRadar. "Those who wait until October may see handsets drop by an average of £48 and up to £122."

It's the same story in the US and Australia, and while Armstrong references October as the hard trade-in deadline, your absolute best bet is to sell your current iPhone before 12pm PT / 3pm ET / 8pm BST today.

Of course, selling before the iPhone 18 Pro has even been announced would leave you with no phone until the new models begin shipping later this month, but some retailers will allow you to lock in a sale price today and keep using your phone for a few more weeks. That's the ideal scenario during this precarious time of year for iPhone trade-in values.

First official look at the iPhone Ultra?

New Apple CEO John Ternus has just posted what appears to be a tease for one of the company's new iPhones on X. There's no Tim Cook-style "Good morning!" here, nor even a reminder of today's event start time. Instead, Ternus has shared a 14-second clip of a spotlight shining down on the corner of what looks like an iPhone. Is this a hint that the iPhone Ultra/Duo won't have four straight edges à la the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, or a reference to the rumored variable aperture feature on the iPhone 18 Pro?

pic.twitter.com/CLu9eRDP5bSeptember 9, 2026

The Apple Store is down

A screenshot of the Apple Store website

(Image credit: Future)

Oh, and the Apple Store website is now closed for maintenance, which typically happens right before the company refreshes its product lineup. Not long to go now!

Regarding Ternus' teaser post on X, some Apple fans are pretty convinced it refers to the iPhone 18 Pro's variable aperture, rather than the company's first foldable iPhone. Perhaps we'll get a second teaser video before the event kicks off at 10am PT / 1pm ET / 6pm BST?

Pro phones to come to variable aperture!Notice how the light source widens up and then convergesJust a guess !September 9, 2026

In terms of what won't be unveiled today, we're not expecting Apple to announce new MacBooks, iPads, or Vision Pro-style VR hardware. Software upgrades will most likely take a backseat, too, after iOS 27, Siri AI, and WatchOS 27 were all announced at WWDC 2026 back in June (though it's worth noting that these new OS packages will almost certainly be released alongside their corresponding hardware products in September).

Lance Ulanoff taking a selfie outside the Apple Store in Apple Park

(Image credit: Future)

TechRadar's Editor at Large, Lance Ulanoff, has touched down in Apple Park. His first stop? The official Apple Store, which appears to be temporarily boarded up in preparation for new products.

The Boys Are Back in Town

Lance Ulanoff and Jacob Krol at Apple Park

(Image credit: Future)

Lance has now been joined by Jacob Krol, TechRadar's US Managing Editor for News. Between them, they'll be bringing you hands-on impressions and videos of everything Apple is announcing today — including, we hope, the company's first foldable iPhone.

OK, I'm pretty sure I know what the winning response will be (it rhymes with "grindstone culture"), but cast your vote below for your most anticipated announcement from today's Apple Event:

Just two hours to go! A reminder that today's event kicks off at 10am PT / 1pm ET / 6pm BST (or 3am AEST if you're in Australia, but if you're reading this from Sydney: go back to sleep).

Here's Lance and Jake on their predictions for today's event:

And here's part 2 of the pair's predictions:

The sun is out at Apple Park! Incidentally, it was raining cats and dogs during last year's event, so perhaps the universe is telling us we're in for a more exciting set of announcements in 2026.

Apple Park exterior shot

(Image credit: Future)

Watch out for watches

Apple Watch Series 11 in person

The Apple Watch Series 11 (Image credit: Future)

The foldable iPhone Duo and iPhone 18 Pro won't be the only stars of today's event: Apple Watches also look set to get an overhaul, starting with the Apple Watch Series 12.

Now, if you're expecting major design upgrades, prepare to be disappointed. According to the latest rumors, the Series 12 will look similar to its predecessor, the Apple Watch Series 11 — though one rumor does hint at ceramic case options, which would be a nice touch. We’ve also heard that the Series 12 could have a new LTPO display instead of the classic OLED, but we’re taking this claim with a pinch of salt.

For now, we’re expecting the biggest upgrades to come inside the watch. Specifically, the Series 12 is tipped to house Apple’s new S12 chipset, which should be powerful enough to support Siri AI, as well as a larger battery for a much-needed battery life boost.

Apple Watch Ultra 3

(Image credit: Apple)

The premium Apple Watch Ultra is also tipped to get another update today, but again, it won't necessarily look any different from the current model. Some speculate that the Watch Ultra 4 will be identical in appearance to the Watch Ultra 3, while others claim it will have a bigger screen and slimmer build.

Of course, the biggest updates will likely come under the hood, with the Watch Ultra 4 set to get a new chipset — a no-brainer given Siri AI’s imminent rollout — and a suite of new sensors for more accurate health tracking.

Look out for new health-tracking software

While both new Apple Watch models will almost certainly get hardware upgrades, Apple is also expected to unveil new wellbeing tracking tools for health-minded users. A new default Readiness app is expected to launch for the Apple Watch home screen, delivering a new and improved recovery experience for users — because what you do after a workout is just as important as the workout itself.

The Workout app could be getting an overdue facelift, too. The new version will reportedly let you record individual reps and sets for strength routines to help you keep track of your progress. I’ve been using my iPhone's Notes app in the gym for years, so this is one feature I’m hoping will make an appearance at today's event.

Another handy health tool we’re expecting to see unveiled is always-on heart rate data tracking, which will monitor your activity and recovery over 24 hours using only your heart rate. This sounds exciting, but given that only the Ultra 4 is expected to get new sensors, it’s likely that this feature will be exclusive to Apple's most premium wearable.

Queue at Apple Park

(Image credit: Future)

Just 45 minutes to go — Lance and co. are being ushered into the Steve Jobs Theater to take their seats.

The current foldable competition

The Xiaomi 18 Fold being held in the hand

The Xiaomi 18 Fold (Image credit: Future)

Switching focus back to Apple's first foldable iPhone, there are currently three similarly sized devices available on the market right now: the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, the Xiaomi 18 Fold, and the Huawei Pura X Max.

The first of that trio is the big competition for the iPhone Duo/Ultra. The Z Fold 8 is available globally, and it's been well-received by reviewers and customers as a sturdy, pocket-friendly phone designed for content consumption above all else. Apple will surely ensure its foldable iPhone one-ups the Z Fold 8 in some way, but we're not sure how just yet. I'm banking on a less-visible crease or a superior camera array.

The Xiaomi 18 Fold and Huawei Pura X Max are only available in China, but both may look more similar in appearance to Apple's foldable iPhone than the Galaxy Z Fold 8. Both phones have two rounded corners when closed and four when open, while Samsung's phone is straight-edged whichever way you slice it.

The inside of the Steve Jobs theater

(Image credit: Future)

Lance and Jake have taken their seats inside the Steve Jobs Theater. It's getting real now.

Tim Cook is in the building

Tim Cook at Apple Park

(Image credit: Future)

Former (which feels weird to write) Apple CEO Tim Cook is in the building for new CEO John Ternus' first big Apple Event. A penny for his thoughts...

Two mins to go. Good luck, folks — I hope you get every foldable iPhone you wished for.

And we're off. We're getting a 'Shot on iPhone' sequence to kick things off (classic!). $10 says Craig Federighi appears before it finishes.

Screenshot from Apple's September 2026 event

(Image credit: Apple)

Tim Cook officially hands the reins to John Ternus. Here we go.

Screenshot from Apple's September 2026 event

(Image credit: Apple)

We're kicking off with... iPhone?! I wasn't expecting that. Ternus says the iPhone represents the perfect intersection between AI and hardware. Private Cloud Compute delivers "personal intelligence that's actually personal."

OK we really are getting straight into the new iPhones. I respect it!

Screenshot from Apple's September 2026 event

(Image credit: Apple)

First up is the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. "We made massive advancements in Intelligence, Performance, Battery, and Camera," Ternus says.

It comes in Black, Silver, Glacier, and Burgundy.

Screenshot from Apple's September 2026 event

(Image credit: Apple)

The iPhone 18 Pro features Apple's most advanced foundation models, which, of course, unlock the full capabilities of Siri AI. We got a taste of Siri AI at WWDC 2026 earlier this year, but it now looks set to roll out properly on the 18 Pro, Pro Max, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, and iPhone Air (other iPhones will get it, too, but the best version of the software will be locked to these top-end models).

Screenshot from Apple's September 2026 event

(Image credit: Apple)

The iPhone 18 Pro features the Expressive Voices feature in Siri AI for more accurate dictation and improved personalization.

We're getting a lot on Siri AI and Apple Intelligence here, but we heard most of this back in June. Let's hope we move onto the hardware upgrades soon...

Screenshot from Apple's September 2026 event

(Image credit: Apple)

OK, we're finally onto the hardware: the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max feature Apple's latest chipset, the A20. It's built on 2nm technology, and features a 6-core CPU (including 2 new super cores and 4 efficiency cores), a 7-core CPU (delivering a 40% increase in graphics performance), and two Neural Engines.

Its the "ultimate chip for running on-device AI models," Apple says.

Screenshot from Apple's September 2026 event

(Image credit: Apple)

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max also feature a redesigned vapor chamber. It has three times the surface area as the one inside the iPhone 17 Pro, and features more thermally conducted graphite than before. It's much better at dissipating heat, basically (you'll supposedly get a 40% gain in sustained performance).

Screenshot from Apple's September 2026 event

(Image credit: Apple)

OK, onto the battery – the iPhone 18 Pro Max supposedly delivers the largest increase in battery life ever on an iPhone. You'll get 36 hours of video playback on the 18 Pro, and 45 hours on the Pro Max. As expected, Apple isn't sharing the specific mAh figures.

  •  

Monster MH22282: A Lightweight Open-Ear Headset Built for Swimming and Active Use

Wireless headphones are convenient for everyday listening, but they are not always designed for demanding environments. Swimming, outdoor running, heavy workouts, and rainy conditions can quickly expose the limitations of ordinary earbuds. The Monster MH22282 takes a different approach by combining an open-ear neckband design with IPX8 water resistance, built-in storage, Bluetooth 6.0 and a lightweight frame.

Rather than depending entirely on a smartphone, the MH22282 can also operate as a standalone music player through its integrated 32GB memory. That makes it particularly interesting for people who want to exercise without carrying a phone.

Open-Ear Design With a Focus on Active Use

The Monster MH22282, open-ear headphones uses a neckband-style construction that sits around the back of the head and keeps the ears open. This design can be useful during outdoor activities because users can continue to hear music while remaining aware of sounds around them.

The headset weighs just 23.5 grams, according to the product specifications, so it is designed to avoid the heavier feeling associated with some over-ear sports headphones. Its frame uses a flexible titanium memory alloy, while the ear-hook structure is intended to keep the headset stable during movement.

That combination makes the MH22282 better suited to activities such as running, cycling, gym sessions and other situations where a secure fit matters more than a traditional sealed earbud design.

IPX8 Waterproofing Makes Swimming the Main Attraction

One of the most distinctive features of the MH22282 is its IPX8 waterproof rating. Monster’s product listing positions the headset for swimming, workouts, rainy conditions and other situations where exposure to water could be a problem for conventional wireless headphones.

However, there is an important distinction between waterproof hardware and underwater wireless connectivity.

Bluetooth signals do not work reliably underwater, so the MH22282 is designed to use its internal memory when swimming. In other words, users can load music onto the headset before entering the pool and listen without maintaining a Bluetooth connection to a smartphone.

This is arguably more useful than simply calling the headset waterproof. The combination of water resistance and local music storage addresses one of the biggest practical problems with using wireless headphones in waterproof headphones for swimming.

32GB Storage Turns It Into a Standalone Music Player

The built-in 32GB memory is another feature that separates the MH22282 from many conventional Bluetooth headsets.

When the headset is being used for running or swimming, carrying a smartphone can be inconvenient. With headphones with built-in storage, music can be transferred to the headset beforehand, allowing users to leave their phone behind.

The product listing claims that the 32GB storage can hold more than 4,000 songs, although the actual number will depend on file format, bitrate and the size of the individual audio files.

The headset also supports switching between Bluetooth and memory modes, giving users two different ways to listen depending on where they are using it.

For pool workouts, this local-storage approach is particularly important because it removes the need for an underwater Bluetooth connection.

Bluetooth 6.0 for Everyday Wireless Listening

Outside the pool, the Monster MH22282 works as a conventional wireless headset through Bluetooth 6.0.

The specifications list support for HSP, HFP, A2DP and AVRCP profiles, with a stated transmission distance of up to 10 meters. It also supports AAC and SBC audio codecs.

This makes the headset suitable for more than sports. It can be paired with a phone for music, podcasts and calls, or connected to another compatible device for everyday listening.

Bluetooth is therefore the more convenient mode for commuting and general use, while the internal memory becomes more valuable when users are swimming or exercising without a phone.

11.2mm Drivers and Open-Ear Audio

The MH22282 features 11.2mm dynamic drivers. Monster’s listing says the drivers are tuned to provide stronger bass, detailed midrange and clear high frequencies while keeping the ears open to the surrounding environment.

The open-ear approach comes with a different listening experience from sealed in-ear headphones. It does not aim to completely isolate the listener from the outside world. Instead, it provides audio while allowing environmental sounds to remain part of the listening experience. So open-ear vs in-ear headphones are very different.

That can be useful when running outdoors or exercising in shared spaces, although people looking for strong passive isolation or deep noise blocking may prefer a conventional in-ear design.

ENC Is Mainly Useful for Calls

For voice communication, the MH22282 includes microphones and environmental noise cancellation technology.

Monster says its ENC system uses dual microphones to help identify the user’s voice and reduce surrounding noise during calls.

This feature is more relevant to phone calls than music playback. It can be useful when taking calls in places with background noise, although real-world call performance will naturally depend on the environment, wind conditions and the connected phone.

Up to 16 Hours of Playback

Battery life is rated at up to 16 hours of continuous playback, while the listed charging time is approximately two hours. Monster also claims that a 10-minute quick charge can provide around 90 minutes of listening.

Actual battery life will vary according to volume, connection conditions, call usage and other factors, but the claimed 16-hour figure gives the headset enough endurance for extended workouts and daily listening.

For someone who runs regularly or spends several hours at the gym, avoiding daily charging can be a meaningful advantage.

Monster MH22282 Specifications

Feature Monster MH22282
Design Open-ear neckband
Model MH22282
Bluetooth 6.0
Audio codecs AAC / SBC
Speaker 11.2mm
Internal storage 32GB
Waterproof rating IPX8
Frequency response 20Hz–20kHz
Bluetooth profiles HSP / HFP / A2DP / AVRCP
Transmission distance Up to 10m
Playback time Up to 16 hours
Charging time About 2 hours
Microphone Yes
Noise cancellation ENC
Weight 23.5g
Dimensions 128 × 98 × 48mm
Color Black/Orange

Specifications are based on the current product listing and should be treated as manufacturer/merchant-provided figures rather than independent laboratory measurements.

Who Is the Monster MH22282 For?

The MH22282 makes the most sense for users who need more than a standard pair of Bluetooth earbuds.

Swimmers are the clearest target group because the combination of IPX8 protection and onboard storage solves the problem of maintaining a wireless connection underwater.

Runners and outdoor athletes may also appreciate the open-ear design, which avoids completely blocking the ears and keeps the headset lightweight.

Gym users can use Bluetooth for normal smartphone playback or switch to internal storage when they want to exercise without carrying their phone.

It may be less attractive for listeners who prioritize strong passive isolation, compact true-wireless earbuds or a traditional sealed listening experience.

What Makes the MH22282 Different?

Many sports headphones focus on only one major feature, such as water resistance, long battery life or a secure fit. The Monster MH22282 combines several of these ideas into one device.

Its most interesting combination is not Bluetooth 6.0 alone or the 16-hour battery rating. Instead, it is the relationship between IPX8 protection and 32GB internal storage. Bluetooth remains useful for everyday listening, while local storage provides a practical solution when wireless connectivity becomes unreliable underwater.

The 23.5-gram open-ear construction also gives the headset a clear fitness-oriented identity.

Final Thoughts

Monster MH22282 headphone is designed around a simple idea: a sports headset should remain useful when a smartphone or conventional wireless earbuds are no longer convenient.

Its open-ear neckband design, 23.5g weight, Bluetooth 6.0 connectivity and 16-hour claimed playback make it suitable for everyday exercise and wireless listening. More importantly, the combination of IPX8 waterproofing and 32GB internal storage gives it a specific advantage for swimming.

The biggest point to remember is that IPX8 does not mean Bluetooth will work normally underwater. The headset’s built-in memory mode is the practical solution for swimming, allowing music to be stored locally before entering the water.

For athletes who want one lightweight headset for running, gym sessions, outdoor activities and pool workouts, the Monster MH22282 offers a more specialized feature set than a typical Bluetooth headset.

The post Monster MH22282: A Lightweight Open-Ear Headset Built for Swimming and Active Use appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

  •  

My favorite last-gen Sony headphones are STILL 50% off after Amazon's Labor Day sale — but how long will it last?

Labor Day has come to an end, but there are still a surprising number of leftover tech deals if you know where to look. Case in point: even though its holiday sale has has ended, Amazon is still slashing 50% off the Sony WH-1000XM5, a pair of flagship cans that once topped our list of the best wireless headphones that money can buy.

Sure, these noise-cancelling headphones have since been supplanted by the newer Sony WH-1000XM6, but if you want to enjoy a premium listening experience for cheap, going with the last-gen XM5 is one of the best ways to do so, particularly when you slap on a record-smashing discount. You can thank me later.

Sony WH-1000XM5: $399.99 $198 at Amazon

The Labor Day sale may be over, but Amazon is still carving a straight 50% off the price of the Sony WH-1000XM5, knocking these legendary headphones down to just shy of 200 bucks. The deal can't last much longer, however, so don't wait too long to make your move. View Deal

Despite their last-gen status, the Sony WH-1000XM5 continue to impress as some of the best noise-cancelling headphones that money can buy. You get powerful active noise cancellation (ANC) straight out of the box along with the excellent sound quality that Sony is famous for, plus the cans boast a comfortable fit, a ton of customizable EQ settings (with 10 presets), and up to 30 hours of battery life on a single charge.

The headphones also come with four built-in microphones for voice calls, while multipoint connection means that you can connect your Sony XM5 to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. Your purchase will even come with a free carrying case, which, considering the rigid construction of the XM5, is a nice bonus.

Sure, the Sony WH-1000XM6 technically offer a better experience, with longer battery life, a new QN3 processor, and a flexible build, but I'm not sure these upgrades are worth the steep price tag.

Indeed, if you want the flagship Sony audio experience for less than $200, this discount is one of the best headphone deals on the web. This Labor Day deal could end at any moment, however, so I'd either buy now or prepare to wait until Black Friday season rolls around in a few months. The choice is yours.

  •  

Social media loves Sony’s WH-1000XM4 headphones. Now you can love the sequel for less.

Following the Sept. 1 announcement of new DJ-friendly party speakers, Sony has revealed three value-packed updates to its Bluetooth headphones lineup.

It’s been a big year on the premium end of Sony’s flagship wireless platform, which celebrated a decade of active noise cancellation excellence with the debut of the 1000X The ColleXion luxury headphones—a limited-edition pair Sony pitches on emotional value. But not everyone wants to spend $459 to $649, which is where the new WH-1000XM4C, WH-CH730N, and WH-CH530 come in.

In a sunny suite at New York’s Kimpton Eventi Hotel, we learn why Sony chose sequels over new concepts: young buyers and TikTok unboxing buzz drove the 1000XM4 to the highest customer ratings in the personal, portable audio line thanks to its comfortable, foldable form factor. This organic appreciation has been rewarded with affordable upgrades alongside other popular over- and on-ear models.

[Disclosure: Sony provided travel accommodations during the creation of this story.]

For this launch, Sony is widening the base instead of summiting the peak, though not without a step or two backward. Built on the established silhouette of 2020’s beloved WH-1000XM4, the second-generation 1000XM4C (shown above and below, left) launches at $299.99. That’s $50 less than the original, yet it features the same proven QN1 ANC processor while updating the house sound profile/software engine with input from Grammy-nominated mastering engineers. The headphones are now Bluetooth 6.0 (SBC/AAC/LDAC) for a more stable wireless connection, backed by a 10-band EQ/Gaming EQ instead of the original 5-band sliders. The battery life is now up to 27 hours with noise cancellation, down from 30, but that’s still more than enough for most students, commuters, days at the office, etc. And the 1000XM4C also inherits Background Music Mode, which adds a sense of spatial depth to your music, giving it an ambient effect (think a low-key café soundtrack) that still helps mask your surroundings without competing for your brain’s focus. It’s the same cozy earcups, now in lighter and brighter colors, including Lavender (shown), Black, and Platinum Silver with polished yellow gold logos in place of the previous rose gold hue.

The price remains $179.99 for the entry-level over-ear WH-CH730N (shown above and below, middle), but the specs all increase. A revised, rounded, lightweight frame that now folds instead of swivels for better portability, and inside it, the Dual Noise Sensor’s optimized ANC algorithm is 10 percent more effective. And battery life increases from up to 35 hours with ANC/50 hours without to 50 hours with ANC/75 hours without, so it won’t run out during hybrid work or study halls. That extra charge powers improved beamforming microphones plus AI noise reduction for clearer voice pickup on calls, plus a more natural sound profile with the same 10-band EQ/Gaming EQ as the 1000XM4C. It now supports the LC3 Bluetooth codec alongside SBC/AAC, plus that Background Music mode. Colors for the WH-C730N include White, Pink (shown), Blue, Black, and Oat.

The final, most compact headphone is the on-ear WH-CH530 (shown above, right). At only $69.99 (same as the previous generation), it’s positioned as a headphone for first-time buyers and casual all-day users. It swivels to store flat, rather than folds. And there’s no ANC. But that means battery life beats the rest at up to 55 hours. And the sound engine shares the 10-band EQ/Gaming EQ and SBC/AAC/LC3 with the CH730N, plus DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine) for smoothing out compression artifacts. Based on a brief listen, the soundstage was pleasingly clear, and the bass output was surprisingly strong for a smaller driver. Plus, Safe Mode monitors sound pressure and playtime and lets you adjust maximum volume limiting to keep usage within standards suggested by the World Health Organization for hearing protection. It’s an app feature also available on the other models, so extended wear doesn’t mean eardrum wear and tear. Colors include Pink, White, and Black, as well as on-trend Cobalt, Coral (shown), and Mint.

For those who value function, there will always be the WH-1000XM6. But for those who put a bit more emphasis on the fun, these models offer Sony’s core features and best value in a year of price pressure. We’ll have more to say once we’ve spent more time with them, so check back in.


The 1000XM4C, WH-CH730N, and WH-CH530 are available now. The slideshow below shows all colorways of the three new models. But keep scrolling for something even cuter.



Sony and Sanrio are partnering for Hello Kitty limited-edition headphone bundles (shown below). Each bundle includes an exclusive stylized carrying case—with a carabiner, so it can double as a fashion accessory—and a similarly kawaii tote bag. They will be available for pre-order exclusively online at the Sony store this holiday season. Available in limited quantities in the US and select regions, the collaboration will feature selected Sony headphone models, including WH-1000XM6, WH-CH730N, and WH-CH530. Readers can be notified through this link when units are available.

The post Social media loves Sony’s WH-1000XM4 headphones. Now you can love the sequel for less. appeared first on Popular Science.

  •  

MacVoices #26218: Take Control – Kirk McElhearn Takes Control of AirPods (2)

Our conversation with Kirk McElhearn about his new Take Control of AirPods continues, exploring the advanced capabilities of AirPods beyond simple audio playback, explaining listening modes, Conversation Awareness, head gestures, and how the Apple ecosystem enhances the experience. He also discusses why AirPods perform poorly as phone microphones, examines rumors of camera-equipped AirPods, and reflects […]

💾

  •  

MacVoices #26217: Take Control – Kirk McElhearn Takes Control of Airpods (1)

Kirk McElhearn discusses his new guide to getting the most from Apple’s AirPods, Take Control of AirPods for Take Control Books, explaining why the deceptively simple earbuds deserve a dedicated manual. The conversation explores hearing assistance, noise cancellation, audio quality, controls, battery management, charging options, Bluetooth limitations, and choosing the right model. Kirk offers tips that unlock features many owners never realize are available.

💾

  •  

Beats teased new headphones then ghosted us — but now, Reddit sleuths think they’ve worked out when the new cans will land

  • New Beats headphones teased during 2026 World Cup...
  • ... and Beats has been silent for following two months
  • Reddit fans think they'll come some time after iOS 27, in September

It's been two months since the sporting event of the summer began: the 2026 World Cup kicked off on June 11. That means it's also been two months since Beats started teasing its new headphones, putting them onto footballers like Lamine Yamal and Lee Kang-in to drum up some publicity.

"Publicity for what?" you may well be asking, and it's a fair question. Since then, we've heard neither hide nor hair about these cans, even though we infiltrated Beats impressive HQ to see what was going on, last month.

However, if you were hoping for an imminent release, Redditors have some bad news.

In a post on the r/beatsbydre subreddit, which is currently awash with question regarding these headphones, one forum mod has a theory about when they'll come. User jforsander points out that every previous pair of Beats headphones had iOS support added months prior to their release.

Of course, this new pair of headphones hasn't, suggesting that they're still a long time away from an official launch. In fact, the user thinks that we won't even see this software support until September, because that's when iOS 27 will come.

It follows that the headphones will be released a few months later; perhaps even up to six months later. Gulp. Unfortunately, that tracks with what we heard when we visited Beats HQ — or rather, what we didn't hear. Clearly, Beats is in no rush to strike while the iron's hot.

Will we have to wait that long?

Beats Culver City Campus

(Image credit: Beats)

It's worth taking this missive with a slight pinch of salt. If there's no existing software support for the Beats headphones, how were those footballers using them? Surely they weren't just decoration — not at such an important sporting event, where the right pre-match playlist would surely be of paramount importance?

The cynics among you might rightly point out that the players weren't ever photographed listening to the headphones, just wearing them around their necks or attached to their bags. And it's also possible that Apple found a temporary solution for their headphones, rather than a full software rollout.

But it still stands to reason that Beats would give them a way to sporting stars who could actually listen to the headphones, and so it's possible that software support exists and online sleuths… missed it?

Something that the Reddit poster points out is that Apple might simply have become better at hiding its updated software support for new Beats devices (Apple, of course, owns Beats). They call it unlikely, but feasible.

If we are waiting past September to hear any more about these new headphones, all the money spent on soccer players might have been wasted; the buzz garnered by the move is already dying down (that is, in most places beyond the r/beatsbydre subreddit). Hopefully Beats will shift into action sooner than that.

  •  
❌