Headphone & Speaker Frenzy: Bose’s New Flagships, IFA Surprises & Audio Innovations (Sept 5

Key Facts

Bose Unveils New QuietComfort Ultra Flagships: Bose introduced its QuietComfort Ultra Headphones ($429) and QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds ($299) with upgraded noise cancellation, Bose Immersive Audio (spatial sound), and hi-res lossless audio via Snapdragon Sound ts2.tech ts2.tech. The Ultra series succeeds the Bose 700 and QC Earbuds II as the new flagship lineup, while a refreshed QuietComfort (non-Ultra) headset ($349) will replace the QC45, shipping September 21 ts2.tech ts2.tech. Bose claims the new models deliver its best-ever noise cancelling performance ts2.tech.
JBL Launches Powerful Boombox & Party Speakers: At IFA 2025, JBL rolled out the Boombox 4 ($549) and PartyBox 720 ($1,099) portable Bluetooth speakers, each packing serious power ts2.tech. The Boombox 4 pumps out up to 210 W with dual 5″ woofers (IP68-rated, 34 hours battery) ^[1], while the PartyBox 720 blasts 800 W from twin 9″ subwoofers and features mic/guitar inputs plus a beat-synced light show ^[2]. Both hit stores this month after a Sept. 3 pre-sale ts2.tech. JBL also introduced the Grip, a $99 ultra-portable speaker bridging its Clip and Flip lines. The Grip’s upright design is built rugged (IP68) with 16 W output, up to 14 hours playtime (with “PlaytimeBoost”), and Bluetooth Auracast support for multi-speaker pairing ^[3] ^[4].
Sony Slashes Prices Amid Competition: In a strategic move, Sony kicked off an end-of-summer sale with up to 40% off select audio gear ts2.tech. For example, its top-rated WH-1000XM5 noise-canceling headphones dropped to $299.99 (from a $399 MSRP) ts2.tech ^[5]. Sony is even bundling extra discounts on headphone + earbud combos ts2.tech – a sign of fierce competition as new models flood the market.
Baseus Teams with Bose on “Inspire” Series: China’s Baseus made waves at IFA Berlin by launching three new wireless models co-engineered with Sound by Bose ts2.tech. The flagship Inspire XH1 over-ear headphones boast Dolby Spatial Audio, LDAC codec support, and adaptive ANC scanning the surroundings 38,400 times/sec – yielding up to 100 hours battery life (65 h with ANC) ^[6]. The Inspire XP1 true wireless earbuds promise punchy bass via dual-layer “SuperBass 3.0” drivers and –50 dB adaptive noise cancellation, for 45 hours total playback with the case ^[7]. Rounding out the lineup, the Inspire XC1 are billed as the world’s first open-ear clip-on earbuds “with Sound by Bose,” using a combo of dynamic and balanced armature drivers in a flexible, IP66-rated wraparound design for runners and cyclists ^[8]. All three models ship immediately in the ~$129–$149 range ^[9]. “In a sea of trade-show noise, these noise-canceling collabs managed to stand out by cancelling noise – quite literally,” quipped Tony Ware of Popular Science ts2.tech.
JLab Embraces Sustainability & New Designs: California-based JLab made a splash at IFA 2025 with a focus on sustainable audio tech. It announced a comprehensive battery replacement program, becoming one of the first major audio brands to commit to user-replaceable batteries in earbuds and headphones by 2026 – beating new EU regulations (effective 2027) by a year ts2.tech ts2.tech. “We believe that everyone has a role to play in building a more sustainable future… doing what’s right for people and the planet shouldn’t have to wait,” said JLab CEO Win Cramer, underscoring the initiative ts2.tech. On the product side, JLab unveiled the JBuds Open Headphones ($99) – an open-ear, open-back wireless headset with dual coaxial drivers (35 mm woofer + 12 mm tweeter) that delivers immersive sound while keeping the listener aware of surroundings ts2.tech. It also launched the Epic Pods ($99.99), JLab’s first true wireless earbuds with adaptive ANC, featuring a dual-driver setup (10 mm dynamic + Knowles armature) and hi-res audio support for richer sound ts2.tech. Both new models offer robust battery life (18+ hours on the open-ear headphones, 40+ hours total for the earbuds) and come in 100% plastic-free packaging as part of JLab’s eco-friendly push ts2.tech ts2.tech.
Sennheiser Targets Hi-Res Audio on a Budget: Sennheiser quietly revealed the Accentum Wireless noise-canceling headphones – a more affordable sibling to its Momentum series ts2.tech. Priced around $180, the Accentum looks similar to the flagship Momentum 4 but packs a surprise: it supports lossless, CD-quality audio over USB-C, a feature even the $380 Momentum 4 lacks ts2.tech. In wired USB mode, users can bypass Bluetooth compression for true hi-res sound. The trade-offs for the lower price? No carrying case or 3.5 mm analog jack, and only physical buttons (no touch controls) ts2.tech ts2.tech. By preserving core sound quality features while trimming extras, Sennheiser aims to deliver audiophile-grade performance under $200. The black Accentum goes up for pre-order September 25 (shipping by Oct. 4), with a white model to follow in November ts2.tech.
EarFun Packs Flagship Features into Budget Models: Value-focused brand EarFun used IFA to debut two feature-packed yet wallet-friendly devices. The new Air Pro 4+ earbuds combine a 10 mm dynamic driver with a balanced armature for what the company calls “cavernous bass, crisp highs and sweet mids,” while supporting advanced codecs like aptX Lossless and LDAC for 24-bit hi-fi audio streaming ts2.tech ts2.tech. They boast a class-leading 54 hours of total playback (36 h with ANC on), plus fast-charging that yields 3 hours of listening from just a 10-minute top-up ts2.tech. EarFun also launched the Wave Pro X over-ear headphones, which similarly employ dual drivers (40 mm + 10 mm) and support aptX Lossless/LDAC, even offering an optional wired 3.5 mm input for purists ts2.tech ts2.tech. The Wave Pro X’s standout spec is an astonishing 100-hour battery life on a single charge – one of the few in the industry to hit triple digits ts2.tech. Both new EarFun models include multipoint Bluetooth pairing and AI-powered call noise reduction, bringing many flagship-level features down to budget prices.
Apple’s Next AirPods to Double as Health Monitors? While Apple didn’t launch any new audio hardware this week, the rumor mill is buzzing about the upcoming AirPods Pro 3 expected later this month. Leaked reports suggest Apple’s next-gen earbuds will be the most health-focused yet – potentially transforming AirPods into “a comprehensive health monitoring device,” not just audio accessories ts2.tech. The AirPods Pro 3 are rumored to integrate heart-rate and body temperature sensors, among other biometrics ts2.tech. These would build on the hearing wellness features of AirPods Pro 2 and could leverage the ear’s ideal location for measurements (the ear canal can gauge core temperature more reliably than a wrist, for example) ts2.tech. If the reports pan out, Apple’s new earbuds may blur the line between consumer audio and medical-grade wearables – a bold leap in the audio tech space. (Apple has not confirmed these details, but analysts expect an announcement at the company’s September event.)
Pro Audio Corner – Shure Marks 100 Years with Innovations: In professional audio news, Shure – celebrating its 100th anniversary – is showcasing new studio and broadcast gear at the IBC 2025 show (mid-September in Amsterdam). The company teased a “groundbreaking solution” for broadcast audio capture ts2.tech, and it unveiled highlights like the MV7i Smart Microphone & Interface, which introduces a world-first ability to directly plug a second XLR microphone into the USB mic itself – enabling two-channel recording without an external interface ts2.tech. Shure also debuted the Axient Digital PSM in-ear monitoring system (its first fully digital IEM for live/studio use) and a high-channel-count ANX4 wireless receiver, among other pro audio tools ts2.tech. This flurry of pro launches underscores Shure’s push to advance the media and entertainment audio sector with cutting-edge tech. “Major industry events like IBC offer an unmatched platform for driving innovation in audio as the next century of sound tech unfolds,” noted Chad Wiggins, Shure’s VP of Innovation ts2.tech.

In-Depth Report

Bose Debuts QuietComfort Ultra Flagship Headphones & Earbuds

Bose made headlines by unveiling its next-generation QuietComfort Ultra series – a top-tier wireless over-ear headphone and matching true wireless earbuds. These new “Ultra” models introduce Bose’s own Immersive Audio technology (the company’s take on spatial 3D sound) and upgrade to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Sound platform for hi-res, lossless audio over Bluetooth ts2.tech. In practice, that means the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones finally migrate to USB-C connectivity and can deliver full CD-quality wireless playback (via the aptX Adaptive codec) on supported devices ts2.tech. Bose also refreshed the design with more premium materials like polished metal headband yokes, giving a refined look and feel ts2.tech ts2.tech. Priced at $429, the over-ear QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are positioned to succeed the acclaimed Noise Cancelling Headphones 700, while the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd gen, $299) replace 2022’s QC Earbuds II as Bose’s flagship in-ear offering ts2.tech ts2.tech. Both Ultra models put a big emphasis on enhanced noise cancellation and personalization. Bose says its new adaptive ANC algorithm constantly adjusts to the user’s environment and hearing profile, claiming “the best ANC performance of any headphone, whether earbud or headset” to date ts2.tech ts2.tech. Notably, the Ultra Earbuds are significantly smaller than the prior version and – at $299 – even priced about $20 above Apple’s AirPods Pro 2, signaling Bose’s confidence in its technology ts2.tech ts2.tech.

To round out the lineup, Bose also introduced a simpler model simply called the QuietComfort Headphones (no “Ultra” moniker), which will effectively replace the older QuietComfort 45 at a $349 price point ts2.tech. This model foregoes some of the Ultra’s bells and whistles but still offers Bose’s core ANC and sound quality improvements for a wider audience. All three new Bose devices come in black or white finishes (with an additional limited-edition green for the QC Headphones) and are set to roll out soon – pre-orders open Sept. 14, with the QC Headphones shipping first on Sept. 21 and the Ultra Headphones and Earbuds following in early October ts2.tech. Beyond the hardware, Bose detailed its new Immersive Audio feature – essentially a proprietary spatial audio mode that creates a wider, more theater-like soundstage for music and movies ts2.tech. Much like Apple’s Spatial Audio or Dolby Atmos for headphones, Bose’s version even supports optional head-tracking, using built-in sensors to keep the sound field anchored as you move your head ts2.tech ts2.tech. Overall, this launch shows Bose doubling down on high-end audio tech (spatial 3D sound, lossless wireless streaming) to compete head-on with Sony, Apple, and Sennheiser in the premium headphone arena. Industry observers have noted the importance of Bose “finally” embracing modern standards like USB-C charging and hi-res codec support – essentially catching up on specs – while leveraging the company’s legendary noise-canceling expertise to maintain its edge ^[10] ts2.tech.

JBL Launches Boombox 4, PartyBox 720 and Pocket-Sized Grip Speaker

If Bose’s focus was personal listening, JBL set its sights on filling rooms (and backyards) with big sound. On September 3 at IFA, JBL unveiled two new heavy-duty portable speakers – the Boombox 4 and PartyBox 720 – plus a small-but-mighty Grip mini speaker, expanding its popular Bluetooth audio lineup.

Boombox 4: The JBL Boombox 4 is the latest in the brand’s line of bass-blasting boomboxes built for on-the-go parties. Externally it resembles the Boombox 3, but under the hood JBL has boosted output to 210 W (when plugged in) thanks to an upgraded array of two 5-inch woofers, two 0.75-inch tweeters, and three passive radiators ts2.tech ^[11]. It even sports a new LED-lit Bass Boost horn that lets users toggle between “deeper” vs. “punchier” bass modes ts2.tech ^[12]. Despite the beefed-up internals, the Boombox 4 actually sheds some weight from its predecessor and carries an IP68 rating – meaning it’s fully waterproof and dustproof, ready for beach or pool parties ts2.tech ^[13]. Impressively, JBL claims up to 34 hours of playtime on a charge (a jump from the previous model’s 24h), aided by a large replaceable battery and an energy-saving “PlaytimeBoost” feature ts2.tech ^[14]. When it’s time to really crank things up, the Boombox 4 supports Bluetooth 5.4 with Auracast, allowing wireless linking of multiple speakers (or streaming from Auracast transmitters) for synchronized sound across devices ts2.tech ^[15]. Notably, JBL also added true stereo pairing capability – addressing a request from fans who wanted two Boomboxes to form a stereo system. All told, the Boombox 4 is a brute in a portable package, aimed at those who want serious volume and bass on the go without sacrificing durability or battery life.

PartyBox 720: If the Boombox is about portability, the new PartyBox 720 is all about pure party power. This model becomes the second-largest JBL PartyBox that includes a built-in battery (only the flagship PartyBox 1000 is larger, but that one requires a wall plug). The PartyBox 720 delivers a massive 800 W of sound through twin 9-inch woofers and dual 1.25-inch tweeters – easily enough output to entertain a large gathering or outdoor event ts2.tech ^[16]. And of course, it wouldn’t be a PartyBox without a light show: the 720 is decked out with embedded LEDs that strobe and pulse to your music, including fun “starry sky” and trailing light effects that react in real time ts2.tech ^[17]. DJs, karaoke lovers, and musicians will appreciate the dual XLR inputs, which accommodate microphones, guitars or even a mixing board for live performances ts2.tech ^[18]. Like its smaller siblings, the PartyBox 720 includes a built-in rechargeable battery (~15 hours playtime per charge), with the unique option to extend your jam session by swapping in a fresh battery (sold separately) – a rare feature in such a large speaker ts2.tech ^[19]. It’s also semi-portable despite its size, featuring built-in wheels and a telescoping handle for transport, and it carries an IPX4 splash-resistance rating (meaning it can handle the occasional spilled drink or light rain) ts2.tech ^[20]. In short, the PartyBox 720 is a self-contained “party on wheels” made for event hosts and DJs who need high output without being tethered to a power outlet.

Both the Boombox 4 and PartyBox 720 were available for pre-order starting September 3, and they’re set to hit retailers later in the month (the PartyBox 720 ships by Sept. 21 and the Boombox 4 by Sept. 28) ^[21]. With these launches, JBL is effectively refreshing its portable speaker lineup with more power, more features, and more durability across the board ^[22] ^[23]. A tech reviewer at IFA noted that party-centric audio gear is a hot trend this year – pointing out that JBL’s new PartyBox arrives just as Samsung unveiled its own high-wattage Sound Tower party speakers at the show, indicating an arms race for the title of ultimate portable party machine ts2.tech ts2.tech.

Grip Mini Speaker: On the opposite end of the size spectrum, JBL also quietly introduced the JBL Grip, a compact Bluetooth speaker designed to slot between the ultra-tiny Clip and the mid-sized Flip models ^[24]. Priced at $99, the Grip stands out with a unique upright can-shaped design – it’s JBL’s first portable speaker meant to stand vertically by default, which gives it a small footprint and easy access to top-mounted controls ^[25] ^[26]. Despite its modest dimensions (small enough to hold in one hand), the Grip delivers 16 W of JBL Pro Sound from a single full-range driver, and packs in plenty of tech: it supports the latest Bluetooth 5.4 with Auracast for multi-speaker pairing, and it includes fun extras like a built-in ambient light (which doubles as a nightstand lamp) ^[27] ^[28]. It’s built to survive outdoor adventures too – the housing is IP68-rated waterproof, dustproof, and even drop-proof, using rugged recycled materials in its construction ^[29] ^[30]. A large integrated loop/hook and oversized buttons make it easy to carry and operate on the go ^[31]. In terms of battery, the Grip is no slouch: JBL claims up to 14 hours of playtime on a single charge with its power-saving “PlaytimeBoost” mode enabled ^[32]. (Charging via USB-C takes around 3 hours.) For extra oomph, users can stereo-pair two Grips together or link into an Auracast group with other compatible speakers for synchronized sound ^[33]. All in all, the Grip aims to give budget-conscious buyers a durable, go-anywhere mini speaker that doesn’t compromise on battery life or modern features. It’s available for pre-order now, with shipping expected to begin by the end of September ^[34].

Sony Discounts Audio Gear as Market Heats Up

Not every headline was about new product hardware – there were also business moves reflecting the competitive landscape. Case in point: Sony launched a surprise Labor Day/end-of-summer sale this week, knocking up to 40% off many of its popular headphones, speakers, soundbars, and other electronics ts2.tech. The sale, which began around Sept. 4, spans Sony’s online store and major retailers, and includes some steep discounts. For example, Sony’s flagship WH-1000XM5 noise-canceling headphones – which are widely regarded among the best in class – dropped to $299.99 during the sale, down from their $399 list price (about a 25% reduction) ts2.tech ^[35]. Other deals bundled Sony headphones and earbuds together for extra savings, suggesting the company is eager to clear inventory or attract buyers ahead of expected fall product launches ts2.tech. The timing is no coincidence: new models from rivals (like Bose’s Ultra series and upcoming Apple AirPods) are set to hit the market, so Sony appears to be shoring up its position by tempting consumers with lower prices on its current lineup. Analysts note that the personal audio market has become ultra-competitive – with flagship products from Bose, Apple, Sony, Sennheiser and others now vying for tech-savvy buyers – and that aggressive sales like Sony’s indicate a fight for market share going into the holiday season ts2.tech ts2.tech. Beyond Sony, other brands are also in promo mode: Sonos, for instance, was offering up to 25% off select wireless speakers and soundbars in early September, and Bose itself quietly cut prices on the outgoing QuietComfort 45 as the new models were announced, showing that price competition is in full swing across the industry ts2.tech ts2.tech.

Baseus & Bose Collaboration Brings “Inspire” Headphones

One of the more unexpected announcements at IFA came from Baseus, a Shenzhen-based accessories maker, which revealed a trio of headphones/earbuds co-developed under the “Sound by Bose” partnership. The new Baseus Inspire series leverages Bose’s audio tuning expertise – an approach Bose has only selectively taken in the past – to help Baseus punch above its weight in sound quality. Topping the line is the Inspire XH1 over-ear headphone, a feature-packed flagship. It supports Dolby Spatial Audio processing for immersive surround sound, and high-resolution playback via LDAC codec (earning it Hi-Res Wireless certification) ^[36]. The XH1’s killer spec is its endurance: Baseus engineers incorporated a 4-layer adaptive ANC system (rated to cancel noise up to –48 dB) that analyzes ambient sound 38,400 times per second, yet the headphone still manages an astounding 100-hour max battery life (or ~65 hours with ANC constantly on) for multi-day use ^[37] ^[38]. And if you somehow run it down, a fast-charge can replenish ~12 hours in just 10 minutes ^[39]. The design focuses on comfort too, with “CloudComfort” plush padding intended for marathon listening sessions.

For those who prefer earbuds, the Inspire XP1 is a pair of true wireless earphones in the lineup. These buds aim to deliver “punchy peace” – meaning powerful bass and silence. They use a dual-layer diaphragm driver system (Baseus calls it SuperBass 3.0 and SuperBalance 3.0 tech) to pump out deep lows without muddying the highs ^[40]. Despite their compact size, the XP1 boast –50 dB adaptive noise cancellation (nearly on par with Bose’s own top earbuds) and utilize 6 microphones with AI noise reduction for clear calls ^[41]. Battery life is solid as well: up to 45 hours total playback with the charging case, which is well above average for ANC earbuds ^[42]. Rounding out the trio is the unique Inspire XC1, which Baseus bills as the world’s first open-ear clip-on earbuds to feature “Sound by Bose.” Rather than typical earbuds that go in your ear, these hook over the ears and sit just outside the canal. Each XC1 unit packs a 10.8 mm dynamic driver paired with a Knowles balanced armature (for better treble response) in a flexible, durable wraparound design ^[43]. They’re IP66-rated to resist rain and dust, and even tuned to cut wind noise up to 25 km/h, clearly targeting runners, cyclists, and others who need situational awareness along with their music ^[44]. All three Inspire models are out now and priced aggressively in the $129–$149 range depending on model ^[45] – a stark contrast to Bose’s own much pricier offerings. This collaboration lets Baseus boast high-end sonic credentials, while Bose extends its audio tuning influence to new, affordable products. Early reactions at IFA were positive; as mentioned, Popular Science editor Tony Ware wryly noted that in the din of a massive tech show, these noise-canceling Baseus/Bose hybrids managed to stand out by literally canceling noise around them ts2.tech.

JLab Goes Green: User-Replaceable Batteries & New Gear

Mid-tier audio brand JLab used IFA 2025 to position itself as a leader in eco-friendly innovation. The company announced it will introduce user-replaceable batteries in all its future earbuds and headphones by 2026 – a proactive move ahead of the European Union’s mandate requiring built-in batteries to be replaceable by 2027 ts2.tech ts2.tech. This initiative is a significant step toward reducing electronic waste in the audio industry. JLab’s forthcoming system will use standard coin cell rechargeables for earbuds and soft-pack cells for headphones, with no special tools needed for swaps ^[46] ^[47]. CEO Win Cramer framed it as part of a broader responsibility: “We’re introducing headphones and earbuds with easily replaceable batteries… a full year ahead of new EU regulations, because we believe that doing what’s right for people and the planet shouldn’t have to wait.” ts2.tech ^[48] By enabling customers to extend the lifespan of their devices, JLab hopes to set an example of sustainability in consumer electronics.

On the product front, JLab revealed two new devices at IFA that align with this forward-looking ethos. First is the JBuds Open Headphones, a $99 wireless on-ear model with an open-ear, open-back design. Unlike traditional over-ears, these don’t cover or plug your ears; instead they sit on the ear, allowing outside sounds in. This design provides a more social and situationally-aware listening experience – great for users who want music without totally isolating from their environment (joggers, coworkers, etc.). Despite being open, the JBuds Open pack in serious audio hardware: dual coaxial drivers (a large 35 mm driver paired with a secondary 12 mm driver) in each side to cover highs, mids, and lows with rich detail ts2.tech. JLab even built in spatial audio processing, and claims their new LabFocus tech minimizes sound leakage so your music won’t annoy people nearby ^[49] ^[50]. The headphones provide 18+ hours of playtime per charge and support multipoint Bluetooth, and they’re designed with all-day comfort in mind (lightweight build, Cloud Foam™ cushions, etc.) ^[51] ^[52]. Essentially, JLab is trying to deliver an “open air” listening experience without the compromises in sound quality that bone-conduction or other open-ear solutions often have.

The second product is the Epic Pods, a set of true wireless earbuds priced at $99.99. These are notable as JLab’s first earbuds with adaptive ANC – meaning they automatically adjust noise canceling levels based on your environment ts2.tech. Internally, the Epic Pods use a hybrid dual-driver setup (a 10 mm dynamic driver for bass + a Knowles balanced armature for treble) which is rare at this price point ts2.tech. This, combined with support for hi-res audio codecs, promises a richer sound signature than typical budget earbuds. Battery life is impressive too: over 40 hours of total listening time with ANC off (around 30 hours with ANC on, per JLab’s specs) ts2.tech ^[53]. They feature IP55 sweat resistance for workouts and use a stem-style design for better call quality (each bud has triple mics with noise reduction) ^[54] ^[55]. Both the JBuds Open and Epic Pods come in 100% recyclable, plastic-free packaging as part of JLab’s sustainability pledge ts2.tech ^[56]. JLab’s overall message is that you can have the latest tech features and be eco-conscious at the same time – and at mainstream prices. Their IFA showing suggests that being “green” and being on the cutting-edge of affordable audio are now central to the brand’s identity ^[57] ^[58].

Sennheiser’s Surprise: Accentum Wireless for Hi-Fi on a Budget

In a quieter reveal (literally), Sennheiser took the wraps off a new pair of over-ear noise-canceling headphones aimed at the midrange market. Dubbed the Accentum Wireless, this model is essentially a toned-down, more affordable cousin of Sennheiser’s flagship Momentum 4 Wireless. What’s drawing attention is that the Accentum, at roughly $180, inherits much of the Momentum’s premium audio pedigree – and even outdoes it in one aspect ts2.tech ts2.tech. Specifically, the Accentum supports lossless audio over USB-C. In wired mode (using its USB-C cable), it can deliver full 16-bit/44.1 kHz CD-quality sound with no compression ts2.tech. Interestingly, the $380 Momentum 4 can’t do that – it lacks USB digital audio and relies on Bluetooth or analog cable only. This means the cheaper Accentum actually offers a hi-fi listening option that its pricier sibling doesn’t, which will appeal to audiophiles on a budget. Of course, over Bluetooth the Accentum still supports solid codecs (aptX HD, etc.) like its big brother, but wired lossless is a unique bonus at this level.

To hit the lower price, Sennheiser did make some trade-offs. The Accentum’s build and included accessories are pared down: buyers won’t get a hard travel case (the Momentum 4 includes one), there’s no 3.5 mm analog jack for old-school cable connections, and the control scheme is strictly physical buttons (no touch controls or smart pause features) ts2.tech ts2.tech. These omissions are relatively minor for many users, especially if sound quality is the priority. Visually, the Accentum looks very similar to the Momentum 4 – minimalist design, plush ear cushions – which is to say it should feel comfortable and well-built even if some premium touches (like metal hinges or faux-leather trims) might be scaled back. It still has Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation on board to hush ambient noise, though perhaps with slightly less sophistication than the Momentum’s system (Sennheiser hasn’t detailed any differences yet). Essentially, Sennheiser appears to be preserving what counts – the audio performance – while trimming the frills to reach a new audience at under $200 ts2.tech ts2.tech. With the personal audio market seeing $300–$400 flagships from many brands, there’s a growing demand for midrange options that deliver 80–90% of the experience at half the price. The Accentum Wireless is Sennheiser’s answer to that. It’s slated to go up for pre-order on Sept. 25 in a black finish, with shipments starting by October 4, and a white variant planned to arrive in November ts2.tech. For consumers who want Sennheiser’s renowned sound and ANC without the flagship price tag, the Accentum could hit a sweet spot – and it will be interesting to see how it compares to rivals like Sony’s WH-CH720N or Bose’s QC45 (if it remains on sale) in this segment.

EarFun’s New Budget Champs Boast Big Batteries & Codec Support

Another brand making noise at IFA was EarFun, known for its aggressively priced audio gear that often punches above its weight. EarFun unveiled two new models, each aiming to bring flagship-level features to far lower price points.

First up, the EarFun Air Pro 4+ – a set of true wireless earbuds that could make even premium brands take notice. These earbuds use a dual-driver hybrid design: a 10 mm dynamic driver handles bass and mids, while a custom balanced armature driver takes care of the treble ts2.tech ts2.tech. This setup is often seen in audiophile IEMs and is rare in budget earbuds. As a result, EarFun claims the Air Pro 4+ deliver “cavernous bass, crisp highs and sweet mids” – essentially a full-bodied sound across the spectrum ts2.tech. More surprising is the support for aptX Lossless and LDAC codecs, allowing 24-bit/96 kHz high-resolution audio streaming over Bluetooth ts2.tech. To date, only a handful of high-end earbuds (usually $150+) support aptX Lossless, so seeing it in an EarFun product is noteworthy. All that audio prowess doesn’t come at the expense of battery life: the Air Pro 4+ boast an industry-leading 54 hours of total playtime (with ANC off – still ~36 hours with ANC on) when including the charging case ts2.tech. In practical terms, that’s nearly double the endurance of many name-brand ANC earbuds. They also feature fast-charging – a quick 10-minute charge gives about 3 hours of listening ts2.tech – perfect for top-ups on the go. Of course, active noise cancellation is on board (hence “Pro” naming), and while EarFun hasn’t published an exact dB reduction spec, they typically aim to compete with the likes of Apple and Samsung on ANC effectiveness in their price class. The buds also support multipoint pairing (to seamlessly switch between, say, a phone and laptop) and have AI-enhanced noise reduction for calls ts2.tech.

The second device is the EarFun Wave Pro X, a new over-ear wireless headphone. Like the earbuds, the Wave Pro X uses a dual-driver configuration inside each earcup: a large 40 mm dynamic driver for the lows and mids, plus a secondary 10 mm driver (possibly an armature or smaller dynamic) to extend the high-frequency response ts2.tech. This is highly unusual – most over-ear headphones use a single large driver – and it suggests EarFun is trying to deliver more detailed sound than typical in this segment. The Wave Pro X also supports aptX Lossless and LDAC, meaning it can receive bit-perfect 16-bit audio or high-bitrate streams from capable source devices ts2.tech. Notably, EarFun even included a wired 3.5 mm input jack on these headphones ts2.tech, a nod to audiophiles who want the option of zero-latency, uncompressed sound or just to plug into an airplane system. But the spec that steals the show is battery life: a staggering 100 hours on one charge ts2.tech. Hitting triple digits puts the Wave Pro X among the longest-lasting wireless headphones on the market (for context, most ANC over-ears claim 20–40 hours). Even if that 100h figure is likely with ANC off, it indicates you could use these headphones for weeks without worrying about charging. As expected, they feature active noise cancellation and multipoint Bluetooth as well. By combining such features, EarFun is clearly positioning the Wave Pro X and Air Pro 4+ as “giant killers” – devices that offer many of the bells and whistles of $200–$300 products at what will likely be well under $150 each. This continues a trend of Chinese audio brands rapidly closing the gap in technology, forcing bigger players to justify their premiums. Early hands-on impressions from showgoers noted that the build quality still isn’t as polished as higher-end models (more plastic, simpler design), but the sound and spec sheets are undeniably impressive for the price. For consumers on a budget, EarFun’s new lineup means you don’t have to sacrifice battery life or audio quality to save money ts2.tech ts2.tech.

Apple Rumors: AirPods Pro 3 to Feature Health Sensors

No roundup would be complete without mentioning Apple, and while the Cupertino giant didn’t launch any new headphones or speakers during the Sept 5–6 window, it looms over the audio industry with an upcoming event. According to multiple leaks and reports, Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 are expected to be unveiled alongside the new iPhones in the second half of September. What’s intriguing is the buzz that these next-gen AirPods Pro could venture into health-tracking territory ts2.tech. Insiders suggest the earbuds may integrate sensors for measuring heart rate, body temperature, and more, effectively turning the AirPods into a wellness device in addition to an audio accessory ts2.tech. This wouldn’t be entirely out of left field – Apple has gradually added health and safety features to its wearables and even to AirPods (e.g. conversation boost and hearing protection notifications). But the AirPods Pro 3 could take it further, potentially offering continuous heart-rate monitoring during workouts or checking your core temperature via your ear canal. In fact, medical experts note the ear canal is an ideal spot for accurate body temp readings – more reliable than the wrist, which is where smartwatches typically measure temperature ts2.tech. If Apple pulls this off, AirPods could become a sort of in-ear fitness tracker, collecting biometric data similar to how the Apple Watch does, but via the ear. Other expected improvements include better Active Noise Cancellation (thanks to new H2 chip updates), improved sound quality, and maybe even lossless audio support if rumors of a new wireless protocol pan out. There is also talk of Apple introducing new hearing health features, building on the conversation boost and Live Listen to possibly offer basic hearing aid-like functions for those with mild hearing loss (Apple has been positioning AirPods as quasi-hearing aids in some regulatory filings, which is telling). As always, Apple has not confirmed any of this – the company is famously secretive, and these details come from supply chain leaks and code hints. Still, analysts widely anticipate some form of AirPods update this fall, and the “AirPods as health devices” narrative has been gaining traction ts2.tech ts2.tech. The implication for the industry is significant: if Apple successfully adds popular health features to earbuds, it could push competitors like Samsung, Bose, and Jabra to explore similar integrations, further blurring the line between audio tech and wearable health tech. For now, all eyes (and ears) are on Apple’s upcoming event for the official reveal.

Pro Audio Spotlight: Shure’s Centennial Innovations at IBC

Shifting to the professional audio realm – which often foreshadows trends that trickle down to consumers – Shure Incorporated is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, and it’s doing so by pushing the envelope in broadcast and studio sound. At the IBC 2025 broadcast technology conference (kicking off mid-September in Amsterdam), Shure is set to showcase a slate of new gear that underscores how far audio tech has come in a century. One teaser generating buzz is Shure’s claim of a “groundbreaking solution” for broadcast audio capture ts2.tech. While details are under wraps until the show, there’s speculation it could involve next-gen microphone array processing or a new standard for networked audio, given Shure’s hints about integrating with broadcast workflows.

Among the confirmed product reveals: the Shure MV7i“Smart Microphone & Interface.” This appears to be an evolution of Shure’s popular MV7 podcast mic, but with a twist – it can directly accommodate a second XLR microphone input on the mic body itself ts2.tech. In essence, the MV7i doubles as both a studio-quality USB microphone and a two-channel audio interface, which is a world-first design. This would let, say, a journalist or content creator plug an extra guest mic straight into their primary USB mic when recording on a computer, without needing any external mixer or interface. It’s a clever solution for podcasters, streamers, and broadcasters who want to simplify their mobile setups. Additionally, Shure is unveiling the Axient Digital PSM system – its first fully digital in-ear monitoring system for performers and audio engineers ts2.tech. Traditional in-ear monitor (IEM) packs are analog UHF systems; by going digital, Shure promises more robust transmission, lower latency, and better spectral efficiency (more channels in a crowded RF environment). This is a big deal for live concert sound and broadcast events where many wireless devices compete for bandwidth. They’re also launching the ANX4 wireless receiver, which reportedly can handle an unprecedented number of channels in a single unit (likely aimed at large venue setups or network studios that need to manage dozens of wireless mics simultaneously) ts2.tech.

All these pro products highlight the convergence of audio and IT. Features like integrating multiple mics, digital transmission, and network control show that professional audio is becoming more connected and intelligent. As Shure’s VP of Innovation Chad Wiggins noted, industry trade shows like IBC provide an “unmatched platform for driving innovation” in audio as the next century unfolds ts2.tech. His viewpoint is that even as Shure celebrates 100 years (the company started in 1925 making radio parts and microphones), it’s firmly focused on what the future of sound will look like – whether that’s AI-assisted mixing, immersive audio for the metaverse, or tools that make high-quality audio production more accessible. The pro audio advancements demonstrated here often eventually influence consumer tech: for example, digital wireless audio and noise-canceling techniques developed for stage and studio can find their way into next-gen consumer headphones and speakers. In short, Shure’s centennial products are not just a milestone for the company, but a reflection of the rapid technical evolution in audio – from the earliest microphones to today’s smart, networked, sensor-laden sound devices that straddle physical and digital realms. It reminds us that whether it’s the headphones on your ears or the sound system at a concert, a century of innovation has gone into making audio more immersive, convenient, and finely tuned to our needs ts2.tech ts2.tech.

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