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The best noise-canceling headphones for 2025

Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products . Whether you're working in a noisy office, commuting on a packed train or just trying to focus at home, a good pair of noise-canceling headphones can make all the difference. The best noise-canceling headphones block out distractions and let you enjoy your music, podcasts or calls in pe

Fully homomorphic encryption and the dawn of a private internet

Fully Homomorphic Encryption and the Dawn of A Truly Private Internet 2025-07-16 fhe programming essay gene-spafford "Using encryption on the Internet is the equivalent of arranging an armored car to deliver credit card information from someone living in a cardboard box to someone living on a park bench." -- Gene Spafford Imagine sending Google an encrypted question and getting back the exact results you wanted — without them having any way of knowing what your question was or what result t

You can once again buy the AirPods 4 for less than $90

We saw a ton of great Apple deals during Prime Day, most of which have disappeared. It’s okay if you missed out, though, as some of our favorite deals like the M2 MacBook Air have either stuck around or have returned, like the low price on Apple’s entry-level AirPods 4. Right now, you can pick up a pair for just $89.99 ($40 off) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart, which is $1 shy of their all-time best price. Alternatively, you can buy the model with active noise cancellation for $119.99 ($60 off)

Tired of restless nights? These sleep earbuds helped me doze off

Soundcore Sleep A20 ZDNET's key takeaways The Sleep A20 are Soundcore's earbuds designed for sleep, retailing for $180 The specially designed sleep earbuds are comfortable enough to wear the whole night through and are perfect for listening to ambient noise before falling asleep The noise masking isn't strong for dampening environmental sounds, so I wouldn't recommend these for people looking to silence bedroom noise. View now at Best Buy Trouble sleeping? Some people get themselves to bed by

Enabling This One iPhone Feature Has Helped Me Get More Precious, Quality Sleep

I take sleep seriously and will honestly try anything that promises to help me get more rest. However, getting quality sleep doesn't have to involve a white noise machine or other device you have to buy with your hard-earned cash. In fact, as I discovered, it can be as simple as turning on a certain feature on your iPhone. Go figure. For the past five years, I've been getting better, longer sleep thanks to this one hidden iPhone feature. For those who also struggle with sleep and happen to have

I tested Dyson's pricey flagship headphones and they're better than I expected

Jada Jones/ZDNET ZDNET's key takeaways The Dyson OnTrac headphones Impressive sound, adequate noise-canceling, and innovative design choices define the OnTrac headphones. Dyson could spend more time refining these headphones' physical controls, as they can be finicky and unreliable. Who says the same company that made your vacuum cleaner and hairdryer can't make your headphones? I'm unsure if anyone has ever said that, but Dyson definitely didn't. That's right -- the company responsible

Here's how a free software upgrade made the Sonos Ace worth their price tag

Jada Jones/ZDNET The Sonos Ace headphones are currently discounted to $299, $150 off their original price of $450. You can find this deal at Amazon, Best Buy, Sonos, and Walmart. It's been one year since Sonos released its first pair of consumer headphones, and although they made waves when they first dropped, how have they fared after the hype has died down? You can often find the Ace discounted, and if you're interested in them, that's the best time to buy them. Also: The best headphones of

I Wore the New NFL Coach's Headset Sony Built to Tackle Stadium Noise

Sony makes the best noise-canceling headphones, the WH-1000XM6, and starting this year it will also make the headsets that NFL coaches wear along the sidelines and in booths above the field. And I got to try them on for the second time. The new headset was first announced at CES in Las Vegas this January, in the midst of the NFL playoffs, at a Sony press conference that saw NFL commissioner Roger Goodell take the stage. Afterward I interviewed Sony and NFL executives about the then-prototype, a

Best AirPods Pro Alternatives: AirPods for Android and More

Apple’s AirPods Pro are crazy popular for good reason (8/10, WIRED Recommends), from their airy design to their raft of advanced features and powerful noise canceling. But the best AirPods Pro alternatives provide something Apple's pricey flagship buds don't: serious versatility outside Apple's carefully controlled ecosystem. If you’re looking for earbuds with that AirPods Pro vibe that travel better beyond the walls of the Apple castle (hello, Android users!), we've got you covered. My colleag

Your iPhone Has a White Noise Function. Here's How to Turn It On

Listening to natural sounds can lower stress, relieve perceived pain and foster a more positive disposition, according to research from the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Other studies suggest that white noise could help parents get their babies to sleep, adults learn words and improve learning in environments full of distractions. And if you're looking to buy a white noise machine for yourself or your child, your iPhone can function as one, saving you money on a new device. R

The best AirPods for 2025

Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products . Whether you're all-in on the Apple ecosystem or just want a reliable pair of wireless earbuds, the best AirPods can deliver great sound, seamless pairing and smart features that are hard to beat. Over the years, Apple has expanded its AirPods lineup to suit a variety of users — from th

These wireless ANC earbuds from Baseus are on sale for under $30

If you’re in the market for new earbuds with future-proof features at an affordable price, Baseus is offering a limited-time deal worth checking out. The newly launched Baseus Bass BP1 Pro (sold as the EP10 Pro in the EU) is now just $27.99 on Amazon US — down from its original $39.99 price. It’s rare to find active noise canceling (ANC) in affordable wireless earbuds, but the Bass BP1 Pro earbuds promise to deliver in this regard. Baseus says the real-time adaptive active noise cancelation is

The best headphones for watching movies received a huge upgrade right before Prime Day sales

Jada Jones/ZDNET The Sonos Ace headphones are currently discounted to $299, $150 off their original price of $450. You can find this deal at Amazon, Best Buy, Sonos, and Walmart. It's been one year since Sonos released its first pair of consumer headphones, and although they made waves when they first dropped, how have they fared after the hype has died down? You can often find the Ace discounted, and if you're interested in them, that's the best time to buy them. Also: The best headphones of

Sony’s Brand New Flagship Headphones Are on Sale for Prime Day

Prime Day Deals are popping, and even a modest sale on Sony's WH-1000XM6 headphones (9/10, WIRED Recommends) is worth your attention, considering these are the best wireless headphones you can buy right now. With a sweet balance of style and features, fantastic sound, and total noise-crushing authority, the WH-1000XM6 are the real deal. Looking for more super sales? Make sure and click on our Prime Day Live Blog post, and our large-and-in-charge roundup of the Absolute Best Prime Day Deals that

ANC Nothing Earbuds With ChatGPT Integration Cost Nothing for Prime Day, Lowest Price Since Launch

Every single person has a reason why they’d benefit from owning a pair of noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds. Riding the subway, turning off the world around you while listening to the newest Sabrina Carpenter album. Sitting at your desk at work, crunching some numbers while catching up on your favorite podcast breaking down the discourse surrounding the newest Sabrina Carpenter album. For Prime Day, Nothing’s noise-cancelling earbuds with ChatGPT integration has been chopped down by 37%. Th

Apple Didn’t Approve, but Amazon Clears Out AirPods Pro 2 at a Record Low for Prime Day

AirPods Pro 2 are in stores just a year but already they set the benchmark by which other wireless earbuds with active noise cancellation are judged. On the subject of sound quality, nothing else comes close to holding a candle right now. Normally these earbuds cost $249, but Amazon is offering them over 40% off during Prime Day, reducing the price to as low as $149. This deal is for everyone (and not just Prime members) and it is a rarity for an Apple device. Remember, Apple never really offer

Rare deal brings the Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones below $300

If you’re in the market for a top-notch pair of headphones, check out this deal on the Sony WH-1000XM5. Right now, you can get them for $298, a 26% discount off the usual price of $399.99. This offer is a highlight of Prime Day and a more affordable alternative to the newly launched successor. Sony WH-1000XM5 for $298 (26% off) The Sony WH-1000XM5 brings a host of features to enhance your listening experience. With a sleek design and a synthetic leather headband, these headphones prioritize com

Topics: 1000xm5 day noise sony wh

I tested Dyson's pricey flagship headphones and they're better than expected (and $200 off)

Jada Jones/ZDNET ZDNET's key takeaways The Dyson OnTrac headphones Impressive sound, adequate noise-canceling, and innovative design choices define the OnTrac headphones. Dyson could spend more time refining these headphones' physical controls, as they can be finicky and unreliable. The Dyson OnTrac headphones are on sale for $300 (save $200) during Amazon Prime Day. Who says the same company that made your vacuum cleaner and hairdryer can't make your headphones? I'm unsure if anyone has

Deal: Sony’s WF-1000XM5 earbuds hit $198 in Prime Day pick

Harley Maranan / Android Authority If you’re shopping for a new pair of true wireless earbuds, now might be the perfect time to grab the Sony WF-1000XM5. During Amazon Prime Day, you can snag these earbuds for $198. That’s a 34% discount off the recommended retail price, bringing high-quality audio technology into a more affordable range. Sony WF-1000XM5 for $198.00 (34% off) The Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds pack a lot into a compact package, being 25% smaller and 20% lighter than the model before

I replaced my Bose UltraComfort headphones for the Sony XM6 - this deal solidifies the upgrade

ZDNET's key takeaways The Sony WH-1000XM6 are available in Black, Silver, and Midnight Blue for $450. These headphones provide exceptional noise cancellation, practical software features, and an enjoyable sound. A tight fit and non-adjustable noise cancellation are noticeable pitfalls for premium headphones. View now at Sony View now at Amazon more buying choices For a limited time, Amazon has the Sony WH-1000XM6 on sale for $428, a light discount that you shouldn't take for granted. It's be

Beats Studio Pro Headphones Are Dirt Cheap, Amazon Wants to Get Rid of Them at Prime Day

There are more than enough wireless headphones with active noise cancellation (ANC) available on the market but they are not all created equal or as comfortable. Even within the same brand, there will be various models available to suit different needs and price points, as with Beats’ Solo 4 and Studio Pro headphones. If you would prefer a premium model at a ridiculously low cost, Amazon is making it happen with the Beats Studio Pro during this Prime Day sale. This deal is exclusive to Prime me

Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Music and More in 2025

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2: Bowers & Wilkins released the PX7 S2 headphones in 2022 with some significant improvements over the first-generation version.That was followed by a slightly upgraded version, the PX7 S2e ($400), with the "e" standing for evolved. The audio quality has been slightly upgraded thanks to improved digital processing (the headphones have been retuned), which we assume involves an upgraded chip. You may see this model nicely discounted because Bowers & Wilkins has released the

I've used my AirPods Pro 2 since they first launched. Here's my buying advice for 2025

Jada Jones/ZDNET During Apple's September hardware event last year, the company announced the iPhone 16 lineup, new AirPods, and an upgraded Apple Watch. I was most happy to see the AirPods 4 model, which introduced noise cancellation to the lineup for the first time and upgraded software features -- but I was secretly hoping for the AirPods Pro 3. Also: Turn your AirPods Pro 2 into hearing aids: Testing and tracking hearing health in iOS 18.1 Unfortunately, a new AirPods Pro model didn't app

Amazon Smashes the Price of AirPods Max, Now at a New All-Time Price for Prime Day

The active noise cancellation headphone market is saturated with so many brands claiming to provide the best listening experience. Cutting through all the noise can be dizzying, but Apple has continued to lead the pack by offering a product that pairs breathtaking design with outstanding sound quality. The AirPods Max have always been a luxury offering, costing significantly more than rivals. That is until Prime Day brought the price down to an new record low level,. Currently, you can pick up

AirPods Pro 3 are coming, and rumored to have my top feature request

AirPods Pro 3 are in active development, and even though the release timing is still unclear, there’s been one rumored feature in particular that I’m especially excited about: improved active noise cancellation. Noise cancellation has long been a critical AirPods Pro feature for me I’ve been an AirPods user since the first model was introduced alongside the iPhone 7 in 2017. But when AirPods Pro debuted, I was immediately sold. Several features were appealing to me, but one standout was the i

Apple Didn’t Approve, but Amazon Is Clearing Out AirPods Pro 2 at a Record Low for Prime Day

AirPods Pro 2 are in stores just a year but already they set the benchmark by which other wireless earbuds with active noise cancellation are judged. On the subject of sound quality, nothing else comes close to holding a candle right now. Normally these earbuds cost $249, but Amazon is offering them over 30% off early Prime Day, reducing the price to as low as $169. This deal is for everyone (and not just Prime members) and it is a rarity for an Apple device. Remember, Apple never really offers

What a Hacker Stole from Me

Dec 13, 2023 • After a tumultuous year of development, our new myNoise Android app is finally here. This milestone marks not just the culmination of countless hours of hard work but also, most certainly, the start of new challenges. In this extensive blog post, I aim to share insights about our journey – where we are now and how we got here. To enhance clarity, I've included section titles to make it easier for you to skim through the content. The Harsh Reality of Android Development Releasin

The best earbuds we’ve tested for 2025

is a former senior reviewer who worked at The Verge from 2011 until May 2025. His coverage areas included audio (Sonos, Apple, Bose, Sony, etc.), home theater, smartphones, photography, and more. Editor’s note: Amazon Prime Day kicks off on July 8th; however, if you want to get a head start on your online shopping, we’ve rounded up the best early Prime Day deals you can already get. It’s hard to buy a bad pair of wireless earbuds these days, and with constant discounts and deals wherever you l

AV1@Scale: Film Grain Synthesis, The Awakening

AV1 @ Scale: Film Grain Synthesis, The Awakening Unleashing Film Grain Synthesis on Netflix and Enhancing Visuals for Millions Netflix Technology Blog 8 min read · 1 day ago 1 day ago -- Listen Share Li-Heng Chen, Andrey Norkin, Liwei Guo, Zhi Li, Agata Opalach and Anush Moorthy Picture this: you’re watching a classic film, and the subtle dance of film grain adds a layer of authenticity and nostalgia to every scene. This grain, formed from tiny particles during the film’s development, is more

Apple patent hints at massive leap in camera sensor tech, nearing human eye dynamic range

Apple is investigating new image sensor technology that promises up to 20 stops of dynamic range. That’s a level that surpasses the ARRI ALEXA 35, and gets really close to matching the dynamic range of the average human eye. Here’s what that actually means. 1,048,576:1 A newly published patent, “Image Sensor With Stacked Pixels Having High Dynamic Range And Low Noise,” first spotted by Y.M.Cinema Magazine, reveals Apple’s plans for a next-generation sensor that rivals the dynamic range of curr