Shokz revealed its brand new OpenFit 2 model at last week's CES trade event—naturally, this second generation open earbud plays successor to the original OpenFit model and will exist alongside the already released OpenFit Air (a cheaper alternative). Shokz's OpenFit series utilizes air conduction rather than bone conduction technology (as used by the OpenRun models) to deliver audio into a wearer's ear canals.

The new Open Fit 2 features a Shokz-designed DualBoost driver system—an "extra-large" 17.3 mm composite material dynamic driver produces lower/bass frequencies, while an independent high-frequency unit takes care of its namesake and mid-frequencies. TechPowerUp inspected and handled Shokz's new flagship and enjoyed the feel of its signature "Ultra Soft-Silicone 2.0" outer layer. Shokz has revised the Open Fit 2 earhook design—they believe that its updated shape should provide a better fit for the majority of owners.

Cooler Master, a leading provider of PC components, gaming peripherals, and tech lifestyle solutions, today announced the CH351—a wireless gaming headset that redefines immersive audio. With built-in 3D surround sound, the CH351 is designed to deliver dynamic audio. Whether you're gaming, working, watching movies or listening to music, the CH351 offers seamless connectivity and rich sound, elevating your experience to a new level.

Key features and benefits of the CH351 include:

• Versatile connectivity: Switch between Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and 3.5 mm wired connections for the ultimate flexibility.
• Smart, seamless Bluetooth: Seamless pairing with up to three devices, effortlessly switchable with the push of a button.
• Clear voice chat: Unidirectional microphone minimizes background noise, sidetone confirms your voice is clear.
• Ergonomic design: A Y-frame design minimizes sound leakage while providing all-day comfort.
• Range and power: With up to 30 hours of battery life and a 20-meter range in 2.4 GHz mode, the CH351 ensures uninterrupted use whether you're at your desk or on the move.

With two colorways, black and macaron, the CH351 is the ultimate choice for anyone who wants a clear sound experience in a sleek and stylish package.

Audio manufacturer TOZO revealed its new Golden X2 Pro wireless earbuds at CES today, featuring dual digital-to-analog converters (DACs) and expanded smart features. These new earbuds are TOZO's push into the premium audio segment. The X2 Pro uses a hybrid driver system, pairing a 12 mm dynamic driver with a Knowles balanced armature. New earbuds support LDAC codec and Hi-Res Wireless Audio certification, with a frequency response ranging from 12 Hz to 44.1 kHz. The active noise cancellation system employs six microphones to reduce environmental noise by up to 50 decibels, while automatically adjusting to surrounding conditions. For spatial audio, the earbuds incorporate gyroscopic sensors to enable head tracking.

A notable hardware addition is the 1.47-inch color display built into the charging case, which shows battery status and allows users to adjust settings without using their phone. The earbuds also include a feature called Vocal Vibration Detection that automatically adjusts audio when the user starts speaking. On the software side, TOZO has added several AI-powered features through its companion app, including language translation, voice transcription, and meeting note generation. The implementation of these features and their effectiveness in real-world use remains to be tested.

The term 'AI' has been used in games for decades. These non-playable characters (NPCs) traditionally follow strict rules designed to mimic intelligence, adhere to a guided story, and provide a scripted interaction with the player. However, with the rise of intelligent language models, game AI is primed for a truly intelligent overhaul. At CES 2025, NVIDIA is redefining game AI with the introduction of NVIDIA ACE autonomous game characters. First introduced in 2023, NVIDIA ACE is a suite of RTX-accelerated digital human technologies that bring game characters to life with generative AI. NVIDIA is now expanding ACE from conversational NPCs to autonomous game characters that use AI to perceive, plan, and act like human players. Powered by generative AI, ACE will enable living, dynamic game worlds with companions that comprehend and support player goals, and enemies that adapt dynamically to player tactics.

Enabling these autonomous characters are new ACE small language models (SLMs), capable of planning at human-like frequencies required for realistic decision making, and multi-modal SLMs for vision and audio that allow AI characters to hear audio cues and perceive their environment. NVIDIA is partnering with leading game developers to incorporate ACE autonomous game characters into their titles. Interact with human-like AI players and companions in PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS, inZOI, and NARAKA: BLADEPOINT MOBILE PC VERSION. Fight against ever-learning AI-powered bosses that adapt to your playstyle in MIR5. And experience new gameplay mechanics made possible with AI-powered NPCs in AI People, Dead Meat, and ZooPunk.

Creative has expanded its Aurvana Ace family of xMEMS driver-equipped true wireless earbuds—two new models are on show at this year's CES trade event. The Aurvana Ace SXFI and Aurvana Ace Mimi were revealed prior to CES 2025's commencement, with reviewers in Singapore (where Creative is headquartered) already picking up samples for evaluation. The latest additions also house solid-state xMEMS drivers that works in conjunction with 10 mm dynamic diaphragm units. The TechPowerUp team took a look at the demonstration units on hand at Creative's station—a sense of familiarity was apparent with one of these models.

The collaboration between Creative and Mimi Hearing Technologies has produced the aptly named "Aurvana Ace Mimi"—from the outside this looks like a slight recoloring of the 2023 Ace and Ace 2 models. The Mimi's pricing is apparently somewhere in between the older iterations. A major change addition lies under the hood, due to the implementation of Mimi's Sound Personalization technology. A user can perform a hearing test via the Creative App. It is claimed that this analysis will produce a custom sound profile/EQ—tuned specifically for "every individual."

Technics announces the EAH-AZ100, its latest true wireless earbuds, adding to the family of award-winning audio products backed by 60 years of sound engineering and product development. The EAH-AZ100 levels up users' sound experience with a newly developed, proprietary "Magnetic Fluid Driver" that creates clean, high-resolution, low-vibration and low-distortion sounds for the most authentic, balanced audio that's true to the original source.

For stress-free communication, the EAH-AZ100 introduces "Voice Focus AI"- an innovative feature that combines an AI noise reduction chip and three microphones in each earbud. This advanced technology delivers precise tuning, ensuring the ultimate call quality for both the speaker and the listener. "Voice Focus AI" goes beyond eliminating common call distractions, such as busy street traffic wind or other background noise. It actively analyses incoming sound, enhancing the sound of the caller.

Razer, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, today introduces a breathtaking lineup of high-performance gaming solutions and visionary technological concepts at CES 2025.

This year's highlights include the innovative Razer Blade 16 - the thinnest and most powerful in its lineage, alongside revolutionary projects like Project Arielle, the first gaming chair with integrated heating and cooling, and Project AVA, an AI esports coach that personalizes gaming strategies. Today's announcement also includes the immersive Razer Aether Standing Light Bars, the sleek Razer Monitor Stand Chroma, Razer Handheld Dock Chroma, a new Razer HyperBoost feature for the Razer Laptop Cooling Pad, and the intuitive new Razer PC Remote Play feature for the Razer Kishi Ultra. Further enhancing the lineup, the ergonomic Razer Iskur V2 X chair underscores Razer's commitment to comfort gaming.

Dell is once again raising the bar with innovative new PC monitors that debut world's first technology. Our latest flagship trio showcases industry-leading advancements in color accuracy, eye comfort and audio experience, offering an ideal canvas for creative professionals, engineers, tech enthusiasts or anyone in search of cutting-edge monitors.

With world's first enhanced IPS Black, QD-OLED panel technology, best eye comfort features, AI-enhanced 3D Spatial Sound and more, Dell continues to lead with innovation in the PC monitors space for more than a decade.

LG Electronics (LG) unveiled its new audio product line of Bluetooth speakers and earbuds at CES 2025, created in partnership with multi-platinum musician and tech entrepreneur, will.i.am. This marks the debut of the "xboom by will.i.am" line, following the partnership announcement in early December.

LG recently appointed will.i.am as the "Experiential Architect" of the LG xboom brand, aiming to establish it as a culture-forward brand that elevates the listening experience to new heights through completely new sound and design values. All "xboom by will.i.am" audio products are professionally tuned by will.i.am, delivering the xboom signature sound - characterized by a more balanced audio profile with warmer tones. The product design is playfully compact and embodies will.i.am's creative artistry that stems from his life-long experience in pop culture. Leveraging both his extensive experience in understanding what people love and developing technology for creatives, will.i.am fundamentally inspires xboom's product development, design and brand marketing.

JBL, a boundary pushing trailblazer in audio, has announced the next generations of the JBL Endurance, Tune and Vibe series. Among the category-defining new products are the JBL Tune 2 and Vibe 2 series headphones which feature stand-out upgrades like noise cancelling technologies, enhanced drivers and extended battery life, all while delivering classic JBL Sound at remarkably attractive price points. For sports and wellness enthusiasts, the latest JBL Endurance Race series offers similarly exciting new upgrades for high-performance workouts that test the limits. With a dozen new upgrades across all three JBL collections, there is an option for every type of listener and lifestyle.

"At JBL, we leverage innovative technology to deliver superior sound experiences that meet the diverse needs of each and every listener," said Carsten Olesen, President, Consumer Audio at HARMAN. "With multiple wearing styles to choose from and countless new upgrades to enhance the listening and streaming experience, consumers will have the opportunity to find the model that best fits their lifestyle."

Belkin, a leading consumer electronics brand for 40 years, today introduced several new products across its Mobile Power, Audio and Future Ventures portfolios, underscoring Belkin design excellence, dedication to quality, and commitment to building products more responsibly. Belkin is showcasing its newly announced products at CES Unveiled Las Vegas - the official media event of CES 2025.

Built more responsibly with up to 90% recycled materials
Two years since introducing its transition to using 72-75% post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials in its products, Belkin has transitioned over 359 products and has replaced 432 metric tons of virgin plastics with PCR materials.

HAVIT, a leader in consumer technology, will unveil groundbreaking audio products at CES 2025, tackling key challenges in audio solutions. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, HAVIT is advancing the industry and delivering a more immersive and realistic audio experience for users.

In 2024, HAVIT's global audio device sales surpassed 10 million units, reinforcing its market leadership. Several products have become favorites among consumers, highlighting HAVIT's innovation and user experience. At CES 2025, HAVIT will unveil a range of groundbreaking audio products, set to be event highlights.

Taiko Audio, a Dutch high-end audio manufacturer, has unveiled what might be the most over-engineered music server ever created—the Extreme Server. With a starting price of €28,000 (US$29,600), this meticulously crafted device embodies either the pinnacle of audio engineering or the epitome of audiophile excess. The Extreme's most distinctive feature is its unique dual-processor architecture, using two Intel Xeon Scalable 10-core CPUs. This unusual configuration isn't just for show—Taiko claims it solves a specific audiophile dilemma: the impact of Roon's music management interface on sound quality. By dedicating two processors to Roon and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019 interface, they've made Roon's processing "virtually inaudible", addressing a concern most music listeners probably never knew existed.

Perhaps the most striking technical achievement is the server's cooling system, or rather, its complete absence of conventional cooling. Taiko designed a custom 240 W passive cooling solution with absolutely no fans or moving parts. The company machined the CPU interface to a mind-boggling precision of 5 microns (0.005 mm) and opted for solid copper heat sinks instead of aluminium, claiming this will extend component life by 4 to 12 years. The attention to detail extends to the memory configuration, where Taiko takes an unconventional approach. The server uses twelve 4 GB custom-made industrial memory modules, each factory pre-selected with components matched to within 1% tolerance. According to Taiko, this reduces the refresh rate burst current by almost 50% and allows for lower operating temperatures. The PSU that powers the PC is a custom 400 W linear power supply, an in-house development designed specifically for the Extreme's unique needs. It combines premium Mundorf and Duelund capacitors for sonic neutrality, Lundahl chokes selected by ear, and extensive vibrational damping using Panzerholz (a compressed wood composite) for durability, low temperature operation, longevity, and exceptional sound quality.

US based Noble is happy to announce the latest addition to its wide range of high-end true wireless earbuds. Introducing the FoKus Rex5 hybrid five-driver TWS with Active Noise Cancelling (ANC), Noble's most advanced product to date and first collaboration with Audiodo's sound personalisation software.

Boasting a hybrid five driver configuration consisting of 1x dynamic, 1x planar, and 3x balanced armature drivers - the FoKus Rex5 has been under development for some time now, and the final result is a feature rich TWS implementing new technology rarely seen in the competition. The Noble FoKus Rex5 will be available to pre-order on 26th November and shipping on 29th November from selected retailers worldwide for $449/£419/€499.

Razer, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, today expands its Barracuda line of multi-platform gaming headsets, with the introduction of the Razer Barracuda X Chroma. This new headset, enriched with vibrant Razer Chroma RGB, caters to feedback from the gaming community asking for more visually immersive features in their gaming setup.

"The Barracuda X Chroma is a direct result of feedback from our gaming community," said Barrie Ooi, Head of Razer's PC Gaming Division. "Gamers wanted more from their Barracuda experience, and we delivered—adding the dynamic flair of Razer Chroma RGB to meet the performance and aesthetic needs of immersion-focused gamers."

Tronsmart, a global audio brand, today unveils the Mirune S100 portable Bluetooth speaker, and the Sounfii Q20 as well as Sounfii Q20S, two headphone models with active noise cancellation. The Mirtune S100 features a retractable handle, while the Sounfii Q20S impresses with Hi-Res audio.

Mirtune S100
Rich Detail with Booming Bass in Portable Design

The 2.1-channel audio features a 30 W racetrack subwoofer for deep bass and dual 10 W tweeters for crisp treble, powered by 50 W for clear sound without distortion. Need more bass? Press the SoundPulse button for enhanced thunderous sound. Moreover, the rugged rubber retractable handle allows you to carry it anywhere or lay it flat to fit any room.

Creative Technology today proudly announces the release of the Sound Blaster G8, the latest external gaming DAC designed for those seeking a superior listening experience beyond standard audio. Building on the Sound Blaster legacy, the Sound Blaster G8 brings something new to the table as the first external gaming DAC to feature dual USB-C inputs with mixing capabilities, ensuring seamless connectivity for users. Coupled with ultra high-resolution 32-bit/384 kHz playback and a proprietary Xamp discrete headphone bi-amplifier, the Sound Blaster G8 sets to deliver outstanding audio clarity and precision, making it a must-have for gamers, audio enthusiasts, and content creators.

A New Standard in Audio Performance
The Sound Blaster G8 breaks new ground as the first external gaming DAC to offer dual USB-C inputs with mixing, allowing users to connect two devices—such as a PC and console - at the same time without sacrificing audio quality. This handy feature eliminates the need for additional mixing devices, while keeping the desktop space clutter-free. Unlike most amplifiers on the market, Creative's proprietary Xamp discrete headphone bi-amplifier drives the left and right headphone channels individually, resulting in a smoother, more detailed audio experience. Boasting a dynamic range of 130 dB, the Sound Blaster G8 brings music, movies, and games to life, letting every subtle sound and explosive moment be heard with remarkable clarity. Additionally, with the ability to support headphones with an impedance range from 16Ω to 600Ω, the Sound Blaster G8 offers exceptional sound quality and connectivity across any setup, whether for everyday listening or with high-end gear.

Sonos (Nasdaq: SONO) announced today the introduction of Sonos Arc Ultra, a new premium soundbar that also debuts the brand's revolutionary transducer technology called Sound Motion. A significant breakthrough in audio engineering, Sound Motion drastically reduces the size of the transducer while supercharging the bass, opening a new chapter in sound innovation where bigger, better sound can be delivered from smaller products. Arc Ultra delivers up to double the bass of its predecessor, with an unprecedented 9.1.4 spatial audio experience in a sleek, sophisticated design.

Sonos is also introducing Sonos Sub 4, the next generation of our iconic subwoofer with a refreshed design and internals that elevate your favorite movies, hit shows and more with rumbling bass.

Created for young listeners, JBL launches three new junior headphones featuring next-generation JBL Safe Sound. With volume and playtime limits, activity reports, and a personalized countdown reminder, kids can now enjoy JBL Sound tailored for little ears with the wireless JBL Junior 470NC and JBL Junior 320BT.

Hearing health is at the heart of the new JBL Junior range, with new parental app control innovations taking JBL Safe Sound beyond simply an 85dB volume limit. Available in vibrant, playful colors to suit every kid's preference, and new, larger child-friendly controls, the new headphones combine clear, safe sound with all-day comfort and durability.

BenQ today premiered the GP520, a groundbreaking 4K all-in-one home entertainment projector designed specifically for modern open-plan living spaces. Perfect for young families who value quality time together, the GP520 delivers the onboard cinema experience of Netflix and Google TV with premium 2600 ANSI-lumen HDR picture quality and ambient adaptive technology, coupled with smart auto setup for stunning viewing quality, regardless of the wall color, lighting conditions, or room layout.

"Families often struggle to achieve high-quality projection in open living spaces," said Peter Huang, President of BenQ Corporation. "The GP520 addresses three critical issues: color distortion from ambient light, optimization to different wall colors, and auto-setup without constant adjustment when the projector is moved into different corners. With the GP520, families can enjoy flawless 4K visuals no matter where or how it is set up."

Edifier International, the award-winning audio electronics designer, announces the NeoDots True Wireless earbuds featuring a hybrid driver unit combined with a digital signal processor for the optimum in sound quality.

The combination of dynamic drivers and balanced armature drivers in audio equipment allows a broad frequency response, where dynamic drivers effectively manage low frequencies, delivering deep and rich bass, whilst the balanced armature drivers handle mid and high frequencies ensuring clear and detailed treble. This synergy results in a well-rounded sound profile that enhances the listening experience across different music genres and audio content.

The Ameba RTL8730E was selected as the core of the new module as it fulfills the high demands of technically complex products while offering leading-edge size, power consumption and cost. Realtek Product Line Manager for IoT, Angus Hsu, said: "We are thrilled to be able to work with StreamUnlimited, a professional leader in the audio industry with a strong design capability, innovative thinking and wide market coverage across a range of segments ideally suited to our RTL8730E product."

StreamUnlimited, the innovative leader in embedded audio software and hardware solutions, supports customers through product development, certification, launch and long-term maintenance of products based on the same StreamSDK software stack. Markus Rutz, StreamUnlimited CTO, said: "We are delighted to work with Realtek for our Stream210 module, which complements our diverse family of certified modules, providing product managers across a wide variety of market sectors with the tools to be innovative, disruptive and ambitious when it comes to creating complete product families with StreamUnlimited."

Skullcandy announces the return of its iconic headphone franchise with the launch of the all-new Icon ANC. Nearly 20 years after the original Icon headphones made waves in the boardsports community, the new and improved Icon ANC is here to elevate the listening experience with active noise cancellation, sweat- and water-resistance, and an impressive 60 hours of battery life. Icon ANC is available globally now for $99.99 MSRP at Skullcandy.com and select retailers nationwide.

"The original Icon was a true fan favorite in the boardsport community. We took our fans' requests to heart and gave it a stylish and versatile makeover that's perfect for any adventure," said Justin Regan, VP of Marketing at Skullcandy. "Transcending its heritage, Icon ANC is all about embracing an active lifestyle for a new generation. From the slopes to the streets, these headphones aren't just an accessory—they're a statement."

Today, Bose welcomes a new addition to its iconic SoundLink Bluetooth speaker family: the SoundLink Home Bluetooth Speaker. Compact yet powerful, the SoundLink Home Speaker delivers premium sound in a sleek design capable of blending seamlessly into any room. Wireless and versatile, it offers great acoustics and aesthetics — capable of tuning any space to your musical mood.

Premium, proven audio with no fuss, just music
Hear every note as a full-range transducer and dual passive radiators turn vibrations into deep bass that fills any room, producing a sensorial experience defying its size. The SoundLink Home Speaker has been optimized for flexibility with a USB-C audio input to plug and play from a laptop or any other music source. Turn up the volume by linking two SoundLink Home speakers together to create a unique stereo experience using the speakers as left and right channels.

Today we are thrilled to unveil the Razer Kraken V4 Pro at RazerCon 2024—a testament to more than 12 years of legacy with our iconic Kraken headset series, which has been a cornerstone in gaming audio. Joining the recently launched Kraken V4 and Kraken V4 X, the Kraken V4 Pro with its pioneering OLED Control Hub, brings a new dimension of audio immersion and control, pushing the limits of what an immersive wireless gaming headset can offer.

Engineered for Comprehensive Audio Control
Our journey in developing the Kraken V4 Pro was driven by a singular vision: to create a headset that not only provides unparalleled sound but also gives gamers complete control over their immersive gaming experience.