All articles tagged with #audio devices
Apple released new firmware (8A358) for AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods 4, likely including bug fixes and improvements, possibly preparing for expanded Live Translation features in iOS 26.1, which is in beta testing. Firmware updates are automatic and not manually installable.
Nothing has announced that its fourth-generation earbuds, the Nothing Ear (3), will be launching soon, following a recent teaser. The new earbuds are expected to continue the company's trend of popular audio devices, although no specific release date has been provided. This announcement comes shortly after the company's latest earbud release in April 2024, and the naming convention continues to be somewhat unconventional.
During Labor Day, major retailers are offering significant discounts on headphones and earbuds from brands like Beats, Sony, Apple, Bose, and JBL, with deals on wireless and noise-canceling models, making it a great time to upgrade audio gear while supplies last.
Researchers discovered vulnerabilities in Bluetooth chipsets affecting over 29 audio devices from multiple brands, which could allow hackers to eavesdrop, hijack calls, or steal sensitive information, though practical exploitation requires high skill and proximity. Device manufacturers are working on patches, but many devices remain unpatched, posing potential privacy risks for high-value targets.
Victrola has unveiled the Stream Sapphire, a high-end turntable that can stream records to a wide range of devices, including non-Sonos Bluetooth speakers and various mobile platforms, with Roon and UPnP integration. Priced at $1,499, it boasts 24-bit / 48kHz lossless FLAC audio support and features premium build materials. Additionally, Victrola introduced the lower-priced Victrola Automatic turntable at $199 and the Rock Speaker Connect, an outdoor Bluetooth landscape speaker with solar charging and a 22-hour battery life, available for $99.
Sonos is planning to release its first-ever pair of headphones in 2024, with a rumored release date in April and a price range of $400 to $500. The headphones will feature the ability to synchronize music with other Sonos products and will include Sonos Voice Control. Sonos is also planning to launch a TV streaming device and a second-generation Sonos Roam portable Bluetooth speaker. Other upcoming products include a refreshed Sub, a business-oriented version of the Era 100, and a new soundbar. The wave of new devices is aimed at reversing a downswing in demand for Sonos products in 2023.
Sony has unveiled two new audio devices for the PlayStation 5: the PlayStation Pulse Explore wireless earbuds and the PlayStation Pulse Elite wireless headset. Both devices feature AI-enhanced noise rejection and offer lossless audio. The earbuds will cost $199.99, while the headset will be priced at $149.99. Sony will provide more details on the release date and preorders soon. The devices can connect to PlayStation 5, PC, Mac, and smartphones, and can be used with the PlayStation Link for low latency, lossless audio.