Audio-Technica’s R2-D2 earbuds play beeps and bloops for audio alerts

is a senior reporter who’s been covering and reviewing the latest gadgets and tech since 2011, but has loved all things electronic since he was a kid. Ahead of Star Wars Celebration Japan getting underway on April 18th in Tokyo, Audio-Technica has announced four new limited edition versions of its ATH-CKS50TW2 wireless earbuds that originally debuted at CES 2025. Functionality is the same, but the earbuds have gotten a Star Wars-themed makeover with new colors and details inspired by R2-D2, Grogu, the Mandalorian, and Darth Vader plus custom audio alerts that play sound effects like Vader’s ominous labored breathing or a sad whistle when the Artoo version disconnects from a device. The limited edition Audio-Technica ATH-CKS50TW2 are priced a bit higher than the standard versions: $179 up from $149. They’ll be available at Star Wars Celebration Japan but can also be pre-ordered through Audio-Technica’s online store starting on April 21st with an expected release on May 4th, 2025. The ... Read full article.