Google has released an update for its Pixel Buds 2A and Pro 2 earbuds, adding features first teased in August. Paired with a Pixel Watch, the buds can now detect when a wearer falls asleep and respond by pausing music, muting notifications and disabling touch controls, alongside new tap-to-mute, one-tap live translation, and Gemini voice commands for ANC, EQ and touch settings. The Pro 2 also gains an exclusive Dynamic ANC feature that adjusts audio based on earbud fit.
theverge.com
· 2026-10-07
Google has released version 1.0.981607934 of the Pixel Buds app, adding Gemini-powered voice control over earbud settings such as EQ presets, ANC mode, conversation detection, and touch controls. The feature requires the Gemini app and is rolling out now via the Play Store.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-09-28
Apple recently launched AirPods 5, bringing active noise cancellation down to a lower price point than before. However, AirPods Pro 3 retain several features not found in the cheaper model, including in-ear tip design, built-in heart rate monitoring during workouts, and hearing health tools such as a hearing test, hearing aid function, and hearing protection.
9to5mac.com
· 2026-09-28
Bose has introduced the Noise Canceling Earbuds, a wired USB-C pair that draws power directly from the connected device rather than requiring a battery charge. The earbuds support 24-bit/48kHz audio via USB Audio Class 2, include Quiet, Aware, and ANC-Off modes, and use four microphones for noise capture alongside a dedicated mic on an in-line remote. They go on sale October 15 for $99 with interchangeable eartips in three sizes.
zdnet.com
· 2026-09-28
Bose has introduced Noise Cancelling Wired Earbuds that connect via a 4.2-foot USB-C cable and use its QuietControl technology, offering Quiet, Aware and ANC Off modes. The earbuds include dual microphones per earpiece, an in-line remote with physical controls, and support for lossless audio on compatible devices. They are IPX4 rated, available in three colors including a limited-edition Dewdrop Mint, priced at $99 and now up for preorder with shipping expected mid-October.
engadget.com
· 2026-09-28
Amazon has cut the price of JLab's JBuds Lux ANC wireless over-ear headphones to $49.95 from an $84.95 list price, a 41% discount. The headphones feature hybrid active noise canceling rated up to 35 dB, 40mm drivers, Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint pairing, and a claimed 70+ hours of battery life via USB-C charging.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-09-24
Beats has introduced a new pair of over-ear active noise-cancelling wireless headphones called the Beats 360, built with a slimmer, lighter and more customizable design than typical over-ear models. The company positions them as a workout-friendly alternative to Apple's AirPods Max 2, emphasizing comfort and fit during exercise.
gizmodo.com
· 2026-09-22
A review of active noise cancellation (ANC) headphones outlines their benefits, including blocking steady background noise, improving audio clarity, protecting hearing by reducing the need for high volume, and aiding focus or sleep. It also highlights drawbacks: ANC struggles with sudden loud sounds, can sometimes degrade audio quality or cause ear discomfort, may reduce situational awareness in unsafe settings, and drains battery life faster than headphones without the feature.
engadget.com
· 2026-09-19
Apple's new AirPods 5 bring a noticeable jump in sound quality, with improved bass and more detailed instrumentation compared to the AirPods 4, according to a hands-on review. The earbuds also gain active noise cancellation that handles steady background noise like HVAC hum well, though human voices remain harder to block out fully.
engadget.com
· 2026-09-18
Apple's new AirPods 5 launch at $129 for the standard model, adding active noise cancellation that was previously missing from the lineup. A $149 version bundles a Wireless Charging Case and extended battery life, making it the more compelling purchase for most buyers.
gizmodo.com
· 2026-09-15
Initial hands-on reviews of Apple's AirPods 5 have surfaced, highlighting notably stronger active noise cancellation compared to prior models and the addition of swipe-based volume controls on the earbud stems. Reviewers note these changes as the most tangible upgrades in the new lineup.
techspot.com
· 2026-09-15
Sony has released the WH-1000XM4C, a variant of its popular WH-1000XM4 headphones featuring a new color option and a revised sound profile. The core hardware and noise-cancelling performance remain largely unchanged from the original model, but Sony has tweaked the tuning to offer a different listening experience.
gizmodo.com
· 2026-09-11
GoKawiil