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.

During CES 2025, THIEAUDIO showed off its most ambitious creation yet: the Valhalla in-ear monitors. This flagship model, priced at $1999, represents an engineering marvel in personal audio technology, combining significant driver configuration with meticulous handcrafting. The Valhalla's most striking feature is its remarkable 38-driver architecture, with 19 balanced armature drivers positioned in each earpiece. It incorporates premium components from renowned manufacturers Knowles and Sonion, enabling the IEMs to reproduce sound with exceptional precision across the entire frequency spectrum. At the heart of Valhalla's innovative design lies the proprietary Precision Bass System (PBS), which helps with low-frequency reproduction in IEMs. By housing multiple bass drivers within a specially engineered resonance chamber, the PBS delivers subwoofer-quality bass response reaching down to 5 Hz while minimizing listener fatigue.

The production process of each Valhalla unit is equally complex. A single engineer dedicates an entire day to handcrafting each set, carefully measuring and matching drivers before assembly. The implementation of a sophisticated 4-way passive crossover network, combined with advanced acoustic tubing, helps seamless frequency transitions and optimal tonal balance throughout the audio spectrum. Complementing the Valhalla's acoustic prowess is the EliteNoir cable, which features silver-plated LCOFC wires that maximize signal integrity and durability. This premium cable enhances the IEMs' already impressive soundstage and imaging capabilities. Preorders are now open, and production times are estimated at 2-3 weeks. The design is equally interesting, and you can see it in the pictures below.

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.

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."

Rooftop Shark, an AI audio startup founded in 2023, introduced its AI-10 Smart Watch at CES 2025, featuring integrated True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds within the watch body. The wearable device eliminates the need for a separate earbuds case by housing a single earbud on each watch side that pops out from the watch frame. Both earbuds seem like a custom Rooftop Shark design. The AI-10 combines fitness tracking capabilities with audio functionality in a single device. The watch features a circular display with a polished silver bezel and gray strap. Its interface shows multiple activity tracking options, including outdoor running, indoor running, and outdoor walking, each marked with distinct colored icons for easy navigation.

The fitness tracking interface uses a color-coded system, with outdoor activities marked in blue and yellow, while indoor modes appear in green and orange. The watch face maintains a minimalist design despite packing the additional earbud hardware. The device comes packaged in a black box with gold accents featuring the company's shark logo. While the company has not yet revealed pricing information, the AI-10 is expected to launch in the premium smartwatch category later this year.

EarFun, a global leader in wireless audio technology, has already made waves at CES 2025 with the debut of an impressive lineup of innovative products. From reimagined open-ear listening solutions to innovative AI-powered translation earbuds, EarFun continues to lead the audio technology industry with groundbreaking advancements.

EarFun Unveils Advanced AI Translation and Dual-Unit Wireless Audio Technology
At CES 2025, EarFun will showcase OpenJump, the all-new open-ear wireless earbuds, along with the EarFun Clip, the premium Wave Life Hybrid ANC over-ear headphones at attractive pricing, the enhanced Air Pro 4+ with AI translation, and the world's 1st Lossless Auracast USB Dongle

Timekettle, a global leader in AI-powered communication technology, is thrilled to introduce the enhanced W4 Pro Earbuds with bidirectional call functionality. Powered by its first proprietary software system, also announced at CES, Babel OS, the new W4 Pro sets a new benchmark for cross-language communication, offering seamless two-way real-time translation during phone and video calls on any communication platform.

The newly launched feature allows two-way translations to facilitate effortless cross-lingual conversations through any telecommunication application or traditional phone system. It provides bidirectional synchronous translations without disrupting the original voice quality.

Audio-Technica announces the launch of its ATH-CKS50TW2 earbuds, bringing best-in-class battery life with all the powerful, full-spectrum sound of the originals now with even greater convenience. The earbuds give you up to 65 hours of playback - 25 hours from the fully charged headphones, plus an additional 40 hours available from the charging case. With noise cancelling on, enjoy 15 hours from the earbuds and 25 additional hours from the case. Additionally, if you're in a rush, a quick 5-minute charge provides up to 90 minutes of use.

The ATH-CKS50TW2 earbuds feature Audio-Technica's new patented Magnetic Switch technology which allows the earbuds to turn off when joined by built-in magnets, helping to preserve power when you're out and about without the charging case. The earbuds feature exclusive 9 mm high-definition drivers, specially made by Audio-Technica to deliver clear, full-range audio with deep, powerful bass.

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.

At CES 2025, Lenovo unveiled a bold lineup of AI-powered business solutions designed to redefine the modern workplace. Highlights include the boldly redesigned Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Editions, the innovative and unique ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 with rollable display, and the latest commercial desktops, including the high performance ThinkCentre M90a Pro Gen 6, and the groundbreaking ThinkCentre neo 50q QC powered by Snapdragon. Lenovo also introduces its next-generation ThinkVision P Series monitors and a comprehensive ecosystem of smart accessories, all engineered to elevate productivity and connectivity. Rounding out the announcements, Lenovo showcases cutting-edge proof-of-concept innovations that push the boundaries of technology, offering a glimpse into the future of intelligent, adaptable business solutions.

Lenovo Unveils ThinkPad X9 Series: Revolutionary Design Meets Pro-Level Performance
Lenovo introduces the ThinkPad X9 14 and X9 15 Aura Editions, its latest premium business laptops designed for innovative thinkers from prosumers to small and medium businesses to large corporations. These Copilot+ PCs powered by Intel Core Ultra processors are cutting-edge, AI-enhanced devices for creative professionals that combine powerful and efficient Intel and Windows 11 platforms, personalized AI-enabled experiences, in an all-new progressive design. ThinkPad X9 offers the ideal toolkit for today's hybrid users who demand high performance, proven reliability, and seamless productivity.

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."

Today, Bang & Olufsen announced the Beoplay Eleven wireless earbuds, an evolution of the Danish audio brand's successful Beoplay EX earphones boasting improved acoustic performance thanks to enhanced Active Noise Cancellation, transparency and voice clarity.

"Beoplay EX revolutionised our wireless earphone category with its superior sound and cutting-edge design. With the new Beoplay Eleven, Bang & Olufsen has elevated its ambitions once again," says Francesco Tonon, VP of Product Management. "The new Beoplay Eleven delivers even better sound quality thanks to transformative ANC and Transparency that embodies our innovation capabilities, and we cannot wait to bring them to our customers," he continues.

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.

Sony Electronics Inc. today announced two new wireless earbuds to their LinkBuds range with the LinkBuds Fit and LinkBuds Open, as well as the new LinkBuds Speaker. The LinkBuds Fit and LinkBuds Open models offer authentic, high-quality sound as well as newly developed Air Fitting Supporters and accessories that come in multiple color options for unrivalled sound, comfort, and style.

Since the LinkBuds series first launched in 2022 with a unique ring design, its focus has been on comfort and linking the online and offline world. This continues within the new LinkBuds range with improvements made based on valuable customer feedback to offer a seamless always-on experience, without compromising great sound.

From the creator of the groundbreaking line of Arctis Nova headphones, SteelSeries.com, the original esports brand that fuses gaming and culture, today introduces Arctis GameBuds. The role that gaming plays in moving culture forward is essential and SteelSeries set out to push boundaries and solve problems for those living a "gaming lifestyle" in today's rapidly changing world. The goal was simple, reinvent the world's number one premium gaming headphones - within a pair of gaming earbuds. Whether the pain the points are related to the fact that gamers couldn't connect to a PS5 or Xbox via Bluetooth, or the status quo was poor gaming audio quality and bad microphone communications in traditional earbuds, or the inability to utilize a single pair of earbuds across multiple platforms, or fatigue and poor battery life from all-day use, the introduction of SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds solve multiple problems for gamers.

As an industry first, SteelSeries is introducing a unique feature set for gaming earbuds, including Arctis App connectivity featuring parametric EQ customizations with 100+ game-specific audio presets that can be changed on-the-fly while in-game, 360° Spatial Audio, and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), a Quick-Switch Wireless System, and stable ultra-low latency wireless 2.4Ghz connectivity with a new USB-C nano dongle. The design, development, and engineering required creating a new custom next-gen wireless chipset, co-developed with a key technology partner, that allowed the brand to push the boundaries of innovation. The result is a better player experience and better audio for the games people play - in an all-new form factor.

Audio-Technica, a leading innovator in transducer technology for over 60 years, announces the launch of the ATH-CKS30TW+ wireless earbuds. The ATH-CKS30TW+ wireless earbuds provide rich sound in our most thin, lightweight case yet. Measuring at .94 inches long, 1.5 inches high, 2.36 inches wide and weighing 1 ounce, the case easily fits in a pocket for those on the go. The translucent black design is sleek and unique.

The earbuds' 9 mm drivers deliver deep bass, which can be adjusted using the 5 equalizer presets: Bass Boost Deep, Bass Boost Beat, Dynamic, Vocal, and Clear. When it's time to relax, the Soundscape function plays soothing sounds of nature or other calming sounds to help users concentrate, meditate, and rejuvenate.

Edifier International, the award-winning audio electronics designer, announces the addition of the SPIRIT S10 to its STAX product range. The STAX SPIRIT S10 is the world's first True Wireless Planar Magnetic Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation with Qualcomm QCC5181 Chipset, providing an excellent sound quality and wonderful, immersive, music listening experience.

The STAX SPIRIT S10 features 12 mm modularized planar magnetic drivers that guarantee a uniform, consistent audio performance and the possibility to be used for active noise cancellation. The Planar diaphragm is built on a 2μm polymer substrate with a total thickness of only 10μm - this ensures a good transient response for detailed sound reproduction.

Today, Bose is introducing an extension to its acclaimed QuietComfort line, unveiling the new QuietComfort Earbuds. The new buds are designed for everyday use, featuring proven, powerful audio with renowned noise cancellation, customizable tap controls, seamless voice commands to take calls or selfies in the moment, a wireless charging case and up to 8.5 hours of staying power—all in a compact, powerful, and durable package.

The new QC Earbuds are available starting today at www.bose.com for $179 in three color options: Black, White Smoke, or Chilled Lilac.

Apple today announced a groundbreaking new lineup of AirPods models and features. The new AirPods 4 are the most advanced and comfortable headphones Apple has ever created with an open-ear design, and today, customers can choose between two distinct models: AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). AirPods Max now come in midnight, starlight, blue, purple, and orange, and offer USB-C charging for more convenience. This fall, AirPods Pro 2 will introduce the world's first end-to-end hearing health experience, delivering active Hearing Protection, a scientifically validated Hearing Test, and a clinical-grade Hearing Aid feature.

AirPods 4 and AirPods Max will be available to pre-order starting today, with availability in stores beginning Friday, September 20. New hearing health features will be available this fall for AirPods Pro 2 users in more than 100 countries and regions.

The Air Pro 4 will be EarFun's next-gen flagship from their highly esteemed Air Pro series. Featuring a deep slate of upgrades and fresh tech, the sound and noise cancelation experience is expected to be an unparalleled value. In step with the successful model lineup, EarFun's Air Pro 4 intends to deliver the very best in sound, connectivity, ergonomics, and customization for under $100.

A very first for the price segment, EarFun integrates the all-new Auracast wireless technology to allow listeners to tune in and out of local broadcasts and to connect and share audio between personal devices. Whereas wireless earbuds are usually confined to an individual experience, the Air Pro 4 becomes a shared experience, allowing others nearby to share music or streams. As far as wireless features go, Auracast is just the beginning. LE Audio and LC3 codec are featured to bring efficiency and greater versatility when using the Air Pro 4. With the implementation of the battery-saving LE Bluetooth Audio, EarFun's latest TWS earbud flagship brings the latest Bluetooth 5.4 standard for the fastest and most secure wireless connection. Not only are connection times instantaneous, but the utilization of the superior LC3 codec, over the widely used SBC, allows the Air Pro 4's dynamic drivers to take advantage of higher resolution formats thanks to greater preservation of file integrity.

Skullcandy announced the all-new Dime Evo, the ultimate audio sidekick, featuring big sound, all the must-have features, and a unique slide-out case with a built-in clip for unparalleled portability. The new earbuds will begin selling July 16 for $49.99 MSRP on Skullcandy.com and at select retailers.

"We're excited to introduce our new everyday carry earbuds that you'll never want to leave home without. The case easily clips to backpacks, key rings, or pants to keep your music or media close at hand," shared Justin Regan, VP of Marketing at Skullcandy. "Packed with easy-to-use features and on-the-go convenience, Dime Evo earbuds are primed for any situation—just 'Clip it and Rip it'"

Skullcandy announced an all-new Active Collection featuring three new purpose-built "active" true wireless products for the most active and adventurous consumers, including Push Play Active, Push ANC Active and Sesh ANC Active. The new earbuds are designed with different features at different price points to meet users where they're at. Ranging from $59.99 to $99.99 MSRP, the Active Collection will begin selling July 2 on Skullcandy.com and at select retailers.

"We crafted the Active Collection to meet the demands of those seeking reliable earbud performance in any conditions, from our famously fearless boardsports fans and fitness fanatics to casual outdoor adventurers," said Justin Regan, VP of Marketing, Skullcandy. "These buds are the ultimate companions for those who dare to push boundaries."

ESR, the leading brand for mobile accessories and the #1 brand for MagSafe accessories, proudly announces the launch of its latest innovation: the Cyber FlickLock Case for AirPods. This new product sets a benchmark in AirPod protection, combining ESR's exclusive FlickLock safety lock design with advanced features that enhance both security and usability.

Unmatched Security with FlickLock Lock System
The Cyber FlickLock case showcases ESR's new proprietary FlickLock safety lock, ensuring your AirPods always remain secure. The case lid is designed with a total of 7 strong magnets on the upper and lower sides, providing a powerful magnetic strength of 1480 g. The entire body is crafted from resilient TPU + PC materials, fortified with Air Guard corners that offer dual-layer shock absorption. This design provides robust drop-proof protection, safeguarding your AirPods from everyday impacts.

Jabra, a global leader in true wireless sound and hybrid work solutions, is unveiling the Elite 8 Active Gen 2 and Elite 10 Gen 2 earbuds. Building upon the same great design and success of their predecessors, these next-generation earbuds come with enhancements that strengthen the audio experience.

This includes the world's first LE Audio smart case, enhanced spatial sound powered by Dolby Audio for a better music experience, and enhanced Natural HearThrough for better awareness when outdoors. Jabra's Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) has also been made even stronger with improved mid- and low-frequency noise cancellation.

Accelerating the adoption of solid-state micro speakers in consumer audio products, MEMS audio and semiconductor pioneer xMEMS Labs today announced the availability of two innovative reference designs for purchase at the xMEMS web store.

The first unit, known as Harding, serves as xMEMS' reference design for 2-way True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds, while the other is for audiophile-level full-range in-ear-monitors (IEMs). Both are available for a limited time and in extremely limited quantities, with the goal of providing interested audio brands and manufacturers with accelerated time-to-market leveraging xMEMS' patented designs.