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AirPods Pro 3 vs. Audiophile Earbuds: Does Apple Finally Compete?

Bluetooth headphones, noise cancelling headphones, wireless earbuds

AirPods Pro 3 vs. Audiophile Earbuds

For years, the audiophile community has treated the AirPods line with a mix of begrudging respect for their convenience and outright dismissal of their sonic fidelity. The consensus was simple: if you wanted true high-fidelity wireless audio, you bought the Sony WF-1000XM6 or Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless. You wanted LDAC support, parametric EQ, and large dynamic drivers in audiophile earbuds.

With the release of the AirPods Pro 3, Apple has made a brazen attempt to court critical listeners. Featuring a redesigned “multiport acoustic architecture,” foam-infused ear tips, and a retuned DSP pipeline, the Pro 3 demands a re-evaluation.

But can computational audio finally bridge the gap created by compressed Bluetooth codecs? Let's analyze the acoustics, the silicon, and the math to see if Apple can truly compete in the audiophile earbuds arena.

1. The Codec Dilemma: AAC vs. LDAC vs. aptX for Audiophile Earbuds

Let's address the most glaring omission first: the AirPods Pro 3 still rely on theAAC (Advanced Audio Coding) codec over Bluetooth 5.3. There is no aptX Adaptive (as adopted by Bose QC Ultra EearBuds 2), and there is no LDAC support. Of course, Apple will probably never license Samsung Seamless Codec (which Galaxy Buds, e.g., Galaxy Buds 4, rely on)

For the spec-sheet purist, this is a dealbreaker. Sony's WF-1000XM6 utilizes LDAC, which dynamically scales up to 990kbps. The uncompressed bitrate of standard CD-quality audio (16-bit, 44.1kHz, stereo) is calculated as:

R=f_s\times N\times C

Where fsf_s is the sampling rate (44100Hz), N is the bit depth (16), and C is the number of channels (2). This yields exactly 1411.2kbps.

Sony's LDAC compresses this with minimal loss, delivering a highly detailed signal. Apple's AAC, however, caps out at around 256kbps. On paper, Apple is discarding roughly 80% of the data.

So how does the Pro 3 sound even remotely competitive? The answer lies in psychoacoustic masking. AAC is an incredibly efficient algorithm that prioritizes the frequencies human ears are most sensitive to (2kHz to 5kHz) while aggressively discarding data masked by louder adjacent frequencies. Furthermore, because Apple controls both the encoder (iOS) and the decoder (the H2 chip), they bypass the core audio framework conversions that degrade Bluetooth audio on Android devices.

While the Sony WF-1000XM6 undeniably retrieves more micro-detail in complex, treble-heavy orchestral tracks, the Pro 3 masks its bitrate limitations remarkably well through … Read the rest

Sony WF-1000XM6 vs. AirPods Pro 3: The Architecture of Ecosystems

Bluetooth headphones, noise cancelling headphones, Sony 1000X, wireless earbuds

Sony WF-1000XM6 vs. AirPods Pro 3

In the binary world of consumer electronics, the choice between the Sony WF-1000XM6 (released February 2026) and Apple AirPods Pro 3 (released September 2025) is rarely made in a vacuum. It is usually predetermined by the phone in your pocket.

However, for the high-fidelity enthusiast, the “ecosystem” argument is insufficient. We need to understand the signal chain. Does the convenience of the Apple H2 chip outweigh the raw bitrate of Sony’s LDAC protocol? Does the new 32-bit architecture of the Sony QN3e processor outperform the computational audio algorithms of Apple’s Adaptive Audio 2.0?

This Sony WF-1000XM6 vs. AirPods Pro 3 comparison strips away the marketing of “magic” and “immersion” to examine the engineering philosophies defining the two best noise-cancelling earbuds of 2026.

1. The Silicon: Apple H2 vs. Sony V2+QN3e

The battle for audio supremacy is no longer fought solely with magnets and diaphragms; it is fought with silicon. Let's dive into this for WF-1000XM6 vs. AirPods Pro 3.

The Apple H2: Context is King

The Apple H2 headphone chip is a marvel of efficiency. Its primary architectural goal is latency reduction and contextual awareness.

  • Neural Engine: The H2 features a dedicated neural engine that processes environmental data at a rate of 48,000 times per second. This allows for “Adaptive Audio 2.0,” which dynamically blends Transparency and ANC based on your GPS location and routine.
  • The Philosophy: Apple believes the user should never have to touch a setting. The H2 aggressively applies equal-loudness contours (an evolution of the Fletcher-Munson curve) to ensure bass is perceived correctly at low volumes. It is “computational audio” in its purest form—the signal is constantly being manipulated to sound “pleasant.”

The Sony V2 + QN3e: Fidelity is King

The Sony WF-1000XM6 uses a dual-chip stack: the Integrated Processor V2 for telemetry and the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3e for audio.

  • 32-Bit Float: As discussed in our previous review, the QN3e operates on a 32-bit floating-point architecture. This provides massive headroom for DSP operations without truncating the dynamic range.
  • The Philosophy: Sony believes in “Source Fidelity.” While they offer features like DSEE Extreme (upscaling), the core pipeline is designed to be as linear as possible. The QN3e focuses on lowering the noise floor (THD+N) to allow the physical driver to do the work, rather than relying on psychoacoustic tricks.

Verdict: The H2 is smarter; the QN3e is cleaner.

2. The

… Read the rest

Sony WF-1000XM6 vs. WF-1000XM5: Evolution or Revolution? A Technical Deep Dive

Bluetooth headphones, noise cancelling headphones, Sony 1000X, wireless earbuds

Sony WF-1000XM6 vs. WF-1000XM5: Evolution or Revolution? A Technical Deep Dive

The three-year gap between the release of the Sony WF-1000XM5 (July 2023) and the Sony WF-1000XM6 (February 2026) is an eternity in the personal audio cycle. In that window, the market saw the rise of the Bose QC Ultra Gen 2 and the computational dominance of Apple's H3 silicon.

For existing owners of the WF-1000XM5, the question is not about brand loyalty—it is about technical obsolescence. Does the new architecture of the WF-1000XM6 warrant a $330 reinvestment, or is the XM5 still competitive?

This Sony WF-1000XM6 vs. XM5 comparison goes beyond marketing bullet points to analyze the signal path, acoustic impedance, and noise-cancellation algorithms that set these two flagships apart.

If you are looking for Sony's flagship over-ear headphones, you may check WH-1000XM6.

1. WF-1000XM6 vs XM5: Chassis and Ergonomics

The most polarized aspect of the WF-1000XM5 was not its sound, but its shell. Sony’s decision to use a polished, glossy polymer for the XM5 resulted in a low coefficient of friction. While visually premium, this created two functional failures for a significant subset of users:

  1. Handling Difficulty: The buds were notoriously difficult to remove from the charging case with dry hands.
  2. Stability: The lack of surface texture meant the earbuds relied almost entirely on the expansion force of the polyurethane foam tips to stay in the ear canal. Once sweat was introduced, the friction was lost, leading to “creep” (the slow extrusion of the bud from the ear).

The XM6 Correction

The WF-1000XM6 rectifies this with a high-friction, soft-touch matte finish. This is likely a chemically etched polycarbonate, similar to the texture found on professional mirrorless camera bodies.

Functionally, this changes the retention mechanics. The matte texture engages with the skin of the concha (the bowl of the ear), creating a secondary point of stability. This allows users to potentially downsize their foam tips for comfort without sacrificing the seal required for ANC.

Volume and Center of Gravity

  • WF-1000XM5: approx. 5.9g per bud.
  • WF-1000XM6: approx. 5.2g per bud.

While the weight reduction is minimal (0.7g), the 11% reduction in volume is significant. More importantly, Sony has re-architected the internal PCB layout. By stacking the V2 and QN3e processors vertically, the center of gravity has been shifted inward by approximately 2mm. This reduces the cantilever moment—the leverage the earbud exerts on the ear canal when the head turns rapidly—making the XM6 significantly more stable for inertial movement (running, … Read the rest

6 Months Later: The Technical Reality of the AirPods Pro 3

Bluetooth headphones, Headphone 101, noise cancelling headphones, wireless earbuds

The Technical Reality of the AirPods Pro 3

When Apple launched the AirPods Pro 3 six months ago, the keynote was filled with the usual superlatives: “magical,” “revolutionary,” and claims of “2x better” Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). Now that the marketing dust has settled and we've put over 500 hours of real-world use into these earbuds, it's time to evaluate the engineering.

Are the acoustic and silicon upgrades in AirPods Pro 3 actually worth your money, or is this just an iterative update disguised by computational audio tricks?

Let's break down the hardware, the physics of the new ANC pipeline, the biometrics, and how the battery chemistry is holding up half a year later.

Some “hidden” features of AirPods Pro 3 are discussed here.

1. Material Science: The Foam-Infused Tips and Acoustic Impedance

The most significant physical change to the AirPods Pro 3 isn't the slightly reduced chassis volume; it's the shift from pure silicone ear tips to a foam-microsphere composite. Apple marketed this as a comfort feature, but its real purpose is acoustic impedance matching.

Pure silicone is highly compliant but struggles to create a perfect high-frequency seal in irregularly shaped ear canals. By injecting closed-cell memory foam microspheres into the silicone matrix, the tips now exhibit viscoelastic properties. They deform under body heat to fill micro-gaps, drastically improving passive noise isolation (PNI) before the digital signal processing (DSP) even kicks in. Interestingly, Song WF-1000XM6 also updated the tip material for better acoustics.

This improved seal lowers the resonance frequency of the ear canal and minimizes low-frequency acoustic leakage. The result is a flatter sub-bass response curve and less reliance on the internal feedback microphone to dynamically EQ the low-end via Apple's Adaptive EQ algorithm.

Please note that you need to pay extra attention when cleaning the new foam-infused tips, as explained in the AirPods Pro 3 maintenance guide.

… Read the rest

Sony WF-1000XM6 Review: The King Returns (And It’s Finally Matte)

Bluetooth headphones, noise cancelling headphones, Sony 1000X, wireless earbuds

Sony WF-1000XM6 Review: The King Returns (And It’s Finally Matte)

When the WF-1000XM5 launched in 2023, they were a technical marvel wrapped in a divisive shell. The glossy finish was slippery, and the size reduction came at the cost of passive isolation stability for many users. Three years later, the Sony WF-1000XM6 has arrived to correct the course. This Sony WF-1000XM6 review will explore the improvements and new features.

Sony has not just iterated; they have fundamentally re-architected the signal path. With a new dual-processor stack, a shift to 32-bit processing, and a native integration of Google’s Gemini foundation models, the XM6 represents a significant leap in computational audio.

In this Sony WF-1000XM6 review, we are skipping the unboxing fluff to dissect the engineering changes that arguably make these the best noise-cancelling earbuds 2026 has to offer. Please note that WH-1000XM6, released last year, is an over-ear headphone; while WF-1000xm6 is a wireless earbud.

The Chassis: Friction Coefficients and Ergonomics

The most immediate correction Sony made is material. The XM5’s glossy coating is gone, replaced by a high-friction, soft-touch matte polymer.

This isn't just aesthetic; it’s functional. The texture increases the coefficient of friction against the concha, drastically improving stability without relying solely on the expansion force of the polyurethane foam tips.

Measurements confirm the chassis is 11% slimmer by volume compared to the XM5. Sony achieved this by redesigning the SiP (System in Package) layout, stacking the V2 and QN3e chips vertically rather than laterally. The center of gravity has shifted inward, closer to the ear canal, which reduces the cantilever effect that caused previous models to dislodge during vigorous movement.

The Silicon Stack: V2 + QN3e

The heart of the XM6 is the new dual-chip architecture. While the Integrated Processor V2 handles Bluetooth transmission and initial telemetry, the heavy lifting is done by the new HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3e.

32-Bit Precision

The QN3e introduces a 32-bit audio signal path, up from the 24-bit processing in the XM5.

For the casual listener, this means nothing. For the audiophile, it means a significantly lower noise floor and higher headroom for DSP (Digital Signal Processing) calculations. When applying the 10-band EQ, the 32-bit float precision ensures that drastic frequency cuts or boosts do not introduce digital clipping or quantization artifacts before the signal hits the DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter).

Latency and Throughput

Sony claims the QN3e is 3x faster than the previous … Read the rest

Galaxy Buds 3 vs Galaxy Buds 3 Pro: What are the differences?

Samsung Galaxy Buds, wireless earbuds

Galaxy Buds 3 vs Galaxy Buds 3 Pro: What are the differences?

The exciting new features of Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and the totally new design make this generation of Galaxy Buds one of the top choices of wireless earbuds in 2024 for Android users. However, many people are confused about the differences between Galaxy Buds 3 vs Galaxy Buds 3 Pro.

This Galaxy Buds guide explains the 5 major differences between Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, including design, adaptive ANC, sound quality, battery, and price, to help you make informed decisions when buying your new wireless earbuds.

The common features of Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are discussed in this post. This post focuses on the differences of Galaxy Buds 3 vs Galaxy Buds 3 Pro.

Galaxy Buds 3 vs Galaxy Buds 3 Pro: Different design

Samsung revamped the design for both Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. Although they look similar, the difference in design is obvious.

Galaxy Buds 3 adopted the open-ear design without ear tips to seal the fit. Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, on the contrary, adopted the traditional in-ear design for noise-canceling earbuds.

In a nutshell, Galaxy Buds 3 is the successor of the bean-shaped Galaxy Buds Live. It is designed for users who are uncomfortable with the “stuffed” feeling in their ears. Of course, due to the open-ear design, active noise canceling (ANC) is less effective on Galaxy Buds 3 vs Galaxy Buds 3 Pro.

The Galaxy Bud 3 Pro is designed for users who prefer “strong” noise canceling, blocking ambient sound as much as possible. The contour of Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, together with the silicon tips, can effectively create an isolated audio environment in your ears.

Like it or not, Galaxy Buds 3 is similar to AirPods 3, while Galaxy Buds 3 Pro is close to AirPods Pro 2.

Blade light is another design difference when you compare Galaxy Buds 3 vs Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. Both buds have a stem. However, the built-in LED light, which Samsung called Blade Light, is only available on the stem of Galaxy Buds 3 Pro.

Adaptive ANC

ANC is one of the essential features in the top-tier wireless earbuds in 2024. Both Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro have this feature.

However, in addition to overall better noise canceling, Galaxy Buds 3 Pro has a few advanced features … Read the rest

Top 10 new features of Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro

Bluetooth headphones, Headphone 101, noise cancelling headphones, Samsung Galaxy Buds, wireless earbuds

Top 10 new features of Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro

Samsung finally revealed the latest Galaxy Buds, Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, on July 10, 2024. The new radical design and the new features of Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro have gained mixed receptions.

This Galaxy Buds guide explains the top 10 new features of Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro: the new radical design, stem control, Interpreter, Super Wide Band call, 24-bit/96kHz Samsung Seamless Codec, voice command, LE audio (Auracast)support, adaptive ANC, adaptive EQ, and the IP 57 rating.

These features are available on both Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. The unique features of Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, and the differences between Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro will be discussed in a separate post are discussed in this page.

Radically new (not necessarily better) design

Samsung has departed from the traditional pure in-ear design found in previous generations of Galaxy Buds (e.g., Galaxy Buds, Galaxy Buds+, Galaxy Buds Pro, Galaxy Buds Live, Galaxy Buds 2, and Galaxy Buds 2 Pro. The Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro now feature a new stemmed design, resembling the design of Apple's AirPods and AirPods Pro.

Moreover, Galaxy Buds 3 matches the open-ear design of Airpods without the ear tips. Galaxy Buds 3 Pro looks like a clone of AirPods Pro, especially for the white model.

Both in-ear and stemmed designs have advantages and disadvantages. So, some will welcome this new design, and some will surely not.

Stem control: one of the most useful new features of Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro

One drawback of in-ear wireless earbuds is the touch control. Due to the small sensor area, it is hard for many users to control the earbuds easily. Often, frustrated owners have to pull out their smartphones to control or adjust the earbuds, e.g., with the widget.

The design with the stem provides convenient controls for the earbuds. Apple, like it or not, has demonstrated the ease of controlling wireless earbuds using the force sensor on the stem.

Samsung copied and tweaked these stem controls in Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. You can control the buds with the swipe and the pinch gestures.

For Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, Samsung also added a cool (and maybe disturbing) feature: you can … Read the rest

Bluetooth Codec for Wireless Headphones and Earbuds: Everything You Need to Know

Bluetooth headphones, Headphone 101, wireless earbuds

Bluetooth Codec for Wireless Headphones and Earbuds

Bluetooth codec is not something that most people pay attention to when buying or using wireless devices, but it can make a big difference in your audio enjoyment.

By knowing what codecs your devices support and how to choose the best one for your needs, you can optimize your wireless audio experience and get the most out of your Bluetooth devices.

This Headphone 101 guide explains what Bluetooth codec is, why it matters for wireless headphones and earbuds, how to compare different Bluetooth codecs for headphones and earbuds, commonly used Bluetooth codecs (SBC, AAC, LC3, aptX, aptX HD, aptX Low Latency, aptX Adaptive, LDAC, LHDC, Samsung Seamless Codec (SSC), SCL6, LC3plus) for headsets, and how to properly consider the Bluetooth codec when buying or evaluating new wireless headphones and earbuds.

What is Bluetooth codec, and why does it matter for wireless headphones and earbuds?

Bluetooth is a wireless technology that allows devices to communicate with each other over short distances. It uses radio waves to send and receive data, such as audio, video, text, and images.

However, Bluetooth has a limited bandwidth, which means it can only transfer a certain amount of data per second, usually capped at 2Mbps. This poses a challenge for audio transmission because audio files are usually large and require a lot of bandwidth, usually exceeding the capacity of Bluetooth, to stream without losing quality or interruptions.

To solve this problem, Bluetooth uses a codec to compress the audio data before sending it (e.g., from your phone) and then decompress it by the receiving devices (e.g., headphones and earbuds) after receiving it. A codec is software or hardware that encodes and decodes data using a specific algorithm. By compressing the audio data, the Bluetooth codec reduces the size of the file and the amount of bandwidth needed to transmit it. However, compression also involves some trade-offs, such as loss of quality, latency, and power consumption.

Essentially, Bluetooth codec is a software format that compresses and then encodes audio data so that it can be efficiently transmitted wirelessly between devices before being decoded by hardware that supports that same codec. In other words, a codec determines how your music is packed (compressed) and unpacked (uncompressed) when it travels from your phone to your headphones (and earbuds).

However, not all codecs are created equal. Sound quality can vary among codecs due to factors like bit depth, bit … Read the rest

New Features for AirPods Pro in iOS 17

Bluetooth headphones, noise cancelling headphones, wireless earbuds

New Features for AirPods Pro in iOS 17

The release of iPhone 15 also brought some remarkable new features for AirPods Pro in iOS 17 (mainly for AirPods Pro 2).

This AirPods guide explains the new features for AirPods Pro in iOS 17: mute and unmute, adaptive mode, conversation awareness, and personalized volume to help you effectively use your AirPods Pro, especially AirPods Pro 2.

Please note the USB-C version of AirPods Pro 2 does not add any new features other than the USB-C port, compared to the old lightning port version. None of the AirPods products support Hi-Res Audio. They only support SBC and AAC codecs.

What are the top 4 new features for AirPods Pro in iOS 17?

After updating your iPhone to iOS 17, firmware for AirPods Pro should be updated automatically. You can then access the new features for AirPods Pro in iOS 17, in addition to the existing features of AirPods Pro 2 (2nd Generation) or AirPods Pro (1st generation).

The top 4 new features for AirPods Pro in iOS 17 include:

  1. Mute and Unmute during a phone call.
  2. Adaptive Mode.
  3. Conversation Awareness.
  4. Personalized Volume.

Let's go through them one by one now.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Ear Buds with USB-C Charging, Up to 2X More Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones, Transparency Mode, Adaptive, Personalized Spatial Audio, White
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Ear Buds with USB-C Charging, Up to 2X More Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones, Transparency Mode, Adaptive, Personalized Spatial Audio, White
  • RICHER AUDIO EXPERIENCE — The Apple-designed H2 chip helps to create more intelligent noise cancellation and deeply immersive sound. The low-distortion, custom-built driver delivers crisp, clear high notes and full, rich bass in stunning definition.
  • NEXT-LEVEL ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION — Up to 2x more Active Noise Cancellation for dramatically less noise when you want to focus. Transparency mode lets you hear the world around you, and Adaptive Audio seamlessly blends Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode for the best listening experience in any environment.
  • CUSTOMIZABLE FIT — Includes four pairs of silicone tips (XS, S, M, L) to fit a wide range of ears and provide all-day comfort. The tips create an acoustic seal to help keep out noise and secure AirPods Pro in place.
$269.29
Buy on Amazon

Mute and Unmute during a phone call

You can now mute and unmute yourself during a phone call on the AirPods directly. This new feature for AirPods Pro in iOS 17 is available on AirPods Pro (1st Gen), AirPods Pro 2 (2nd Gen), AirPods 3, AirPods 3 Pro, and AirPods Max.… Read the rest

Unleashing the Power of LDAC Codec: How to Enable Hi-Res Audio on Android Devices with WF-1000XM4, WF1000-XM5, WF-1000XM6, and WH-1000 series?

Bluetooth headphones, Headphone 101, noise cancelling headphones, wireless earbuds

the Power of LDAC Codec: How to Enable Hi-Res Audio on Android Devices with WF-1000XM4, WF1000XM5, and WH-1000 series?

With the release of Sony WH-1000XM6, Sony WF-1000XM5 and WH-1000XM5, more and more owners are wondering how to enable Hi-Res audio, which is one of the key features of high-end Sony wireless headphones and earbuds, in addition to the signature noise canceling feature.

This guide explains and shows you how to use LDAC codes to enable Hi-Res audio on Android devices so that you can enjoy the best quality audio you have paid for. Detailed step-by-step instructions are included. Questions you may have on LDAC codec and Hi-Res audio are also answered.

This guide applies to all wireless headphones and earbuds with LDAC codec support. We use Sony WF-1000XM4, WF-1000XM5, WF-1000XM6, and WH-1000 series just as examples.

Background info on Bluetooth codecs and Hi-Res audio

Bluetooth codec and Hi-Res audio were discussed thoroughly in other posts. In this post, we will focus on how to use LDAC codec and enable Hi-Res audio on Android devices.

However, some readers may need some background info.

Bluetooth audio sucks.

Many cheap wired headphones are better than high-end wireless headphones.

Most wireless earbuds, including the AirPods Pro series, Sony WF-1000 series, and the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds series, are inferior to most cheaper wired headphones.

But Bluetooth audio solves the problem when “wire” is unavailable (or not an option). Especially in the current market, almost all “flagship” or high-end phones have removed the most useful (for audiophiles) 3.5mm audio jack. You may have to look for a Bluetooth headset or wireless earbuds.

Bluetooth codec makes a difference.

All Bluetooth “audio” devices must support the baseline codec: SBC (subband codec), which is part of the Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP). This guarantees that all Bluetooth headphones or earbuds work with all “sending” devices (e.g., iPhone and Android phones).

AAC (Advanced Audio Coding) was standardized by ISO and IEC. Almost all headphones and earbuds manufacturers support it, although it is not royalty-free. Generally, AAC offers better (arguable)audio quality than SBC with the same bandwidth. Of course, this depends on the implementation of the sending and receiving devices.

Hi-Res means different in file format and Bluetooth codec.

When talking about individual music files, Hi-Res usually means either uncompressed (e.g., WAV) or compressed but lossless (e.g., FLAC and ALAC). MP3 and AAC are two common examples of the opposite side: compressed and lossy.

For the codec, the Japan Audio Society certifies Hi-Res Audio … Read the rest

AirPods Pro 2 New features explained

Bluetooth headphones, noise cancelling headphones, wireless earbuds

AirPods Pro 2 New features

You should understand AirPods Pro 2 new features before deciding whether to upgrade or switch to it.

As the 2nd generation of AirPods Pro, you'd expect many cool new improvements and upgrades in the AirPods Pro 2 (aka AirPods Pro 2nd Gen).

This AirPods guide explains the major AirPods Pro 2 new features you should know, including the H2 chip, touch control, skin-detection sensor, adaptive transparency mode, improved noise cancellation, personalized spatial audio, longer battery life, a speaker and U1 chip in the case.

Update: with the release of iOS 17, some new features were added to AirPods Pro 2, including mute and unmute, adaptive mode, conversation awareness, and personalized volume. Please read this guide for a detailed explanation of these new features in iOS 17.

H2 chip

H2 chip is the heart of AirPods Pro 2 and even AirPods Pro 3.

Most of the AirPods Pro 2 new features and improvements can be traced back to the new chip.

Among Apple silicon, the “H” series is dedicated to headphones. Except for the original AirPods, all prior AirPods (AirPods 2, AirPods 3, AirPods Pro, AirPods Max) were powered by the H1 chip.

AirPods Pro 2 is the first AirPods powered by the latest H2 chip. Most of the AirPods Pro 2 new features rely on this new chip.

Apple did not release the technical specs of the H2 (and H1) chips. But the improvements can be read from the claimed 2x noise cancelling capability, adaptive transparency mode, better sound quality, and lower power consumption (longer playtime).

Please note AirPods Pro 2 still does not support any advanced codec, e.g., aptX or LDAC. So, you are still limited by the AAC regardless of the music source. In comparison, Galaxy phones with Galaxy Buds 2 Pro or Galaxy Bud 3 Pro can enjoy Hi-Fi level music withSamsung Seamless Codec. Sony WF-1000XM4/XM5/XM6 with Android phones can even enjoy Hi-Res audio with the LDAC codec.

Touch controls

Although AirPods Pro 2 looks similar to AirPods Pro with stems, touch controls were added to AirPods Pro 2's stems.

AirPods Pro 2 New features explained: touch controls
AirPods Pro 2 New features explained: touch controil

Instead of relying on pressing force sensors, AirPods Pro 2 adds touch sensors and therefore, you can have more controls from the stem.

One of the most welcomed new controls from the … Read the rest

How to use widgets to check battery levels and control Galaxy Buds 2, Galaxy Buds Pro, Galaxy Buds Live, Galaxy Buds+, and Galaxy Buds?

Bluetooth headphones, Samsung Galaxy Buds, wireless earbuds

use widgets to check battery levels and control Galaxy Buds 2, Galaxy Buds Pro, Galaxy Buds Live, Galaxy Buds+, and Galaxy Buds

You can use widgets on Android devices to check battery levels and control Galaxy Buds devices, including Galaxy Buds 3, Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, Galaxy Buds 2, Galaxy Buds Pro, Galaxy Buds Live, Galaxy Buds+, and Galaxy Buds.

So, you may save some time by skipping the Galaxy Wearable app to check battery levels and quickly control Galaxy Buds devices directly from the home screen of your Android phone.

This Galaxy Buds guide explains how to add the widget to the Home screen of your Android devices, how to customize it, and how to use the widget to check battery levels and control your Galaxy Buds.

Please note, this feature is only available on Android devices (not just on Samsung Galaxy phones). And it is available for all Galaxy Buds released so far. However, Samsung hasn't released this feature to iOS users.

What Galaxy Buds devices are supported by the widget?

Currently, all Galaxy Buds, including Galaxy Buds, Galaxy Buds+, Galaxy Buds Live, Galaxy Buds Pro, Galaxy Buds 2, Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, Galaxy Buds 3, and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are supported.

But each model has its own plugin in the Galaxy Wearable app. And therefore, each model of these buds needs separate widgets.

For example, if you have both Galaxy Buds Live and Galaxy Buds 2, you will have to add the widgets for these two earbuds separately.

Again, although iOS 14 and later versions support widgets, Samsung hasn't added widget support in iOS. So you cannot use the widget to control any Galaxy Buds on iOS.

Please note that on iOS, only Galaxy Buds+ and Galaxy Buds Live are supported. Other Galaxy Buds can only be used as a normal Bluetooth headset (without any additional controls).

Steps to add Galaxy Buds widget to the Home screen

To add the Galaxy Buds Live widgets, for example, on Galaxy S21, you can tap and hold (or pinch) any blank area on the Home screen to enter the Home screen edit mode.

This method works on all Samsung Galaxy phones and the majority of other Android devices.

Once in the home screen edit mode, you can tap the Widgets button, as shown below.

Home screen edit mode on Samsung Galaxy phones (S21 as an example).
widget screen on Samsung Galaxy S21

Now, on the widgets screen, you can find all available widgets that could be added to the Home screen. Widgets are organized by the parents' apps, which … Read the rest

AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro: which one should you choose?

Bluetooth headphones, noise cancelling headphones, wireless earbuds

AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro: which one should you choose?

As AirPods 3 is the latest model of Apple's wireless earbuds for the mass market, you may want to know how it compares to AirPods Pro (i.e., AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro).

This AirPods guide explains the shared features of AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro (the Force Sensor, Spatial Audio, Adaptive EQ, IPX4 rating, and wireless charging), advantages and disadvantages (silicon tips, ANC, transparency mode, battery life, and price) of AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro.

The comparison of AirPods 3 to AirPods 2 is discussed in this post.

In iOS 17, both AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro can now use the force sensor to mute and unmute during a call.

AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro: What are shared?

AirPods 3, which is the successor of AirPods 2, is not a replacement for AirPods Pro. Instead, it targets a different audience with some shared features with AirPods Pro.

Here is the list of shared features of AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro

These features were explained in the Top 10 new features of AirPods Pro, and AirPods 3 vs AirPods 2: Top 8 improvements and new features of AirPods 3.

AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro: Advantages of AirPods Pro

You may find the new AirPods 3 lacks the following three features when comparing AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro.

Silcion tips

Although AirPods 3 looks closer to AirPods Pro than to AirPods 2 (for example, the shape, and the length of the stem/leg), you can easily differ AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro due to lack of chargeable silicon tips.

The small silicon tips actually mark a fundamentally different design.

AirPods 3 adopts the “open” design, as in AirPods 2. This design does not create a “sealed” space for the sound from the wireless earbuds.

On the contrary, the silicon tips and other parts in the AirPods Pro create (at least attempt to) a sealed environment in the canal for the earbuds. Such a sealed environment is usually needed for active noise cancelling (ANC). Samsung Galaxy Buds Live is the only exception combining open design and ANC.

Some users may feel more comfortable with the open design, especially if they need to wear the earbuds for an extended period every day.

But if you prefer a quiet environment, then AirPods Pro … Read the rest

AirPods 3 vs AirPods 2: Top 8 improvements and new features of AirPods 3

Bluetooth headphones, noise cancelling headphones, wireless earbuds

AirPods 3 vs AirPods 2: Top 8 improvements and new features of AirPods 3

AirPods 3, the successor of the 2-year-and-7-month old AirPods 2, was officially announced on October 18 2021. So many users are wondering about the new features of AirPods 3 (vs AirPods 2).

This AirPods guide explains the top 8 improvements and new features of AirPods 3 vs AirPods 2: the Force Sensor, IPX4 water-resistance rating, longer battery life, Spatial audio, wireless charging, adaptive EQ, Find My Network, and improved design.

A comparison of AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro is discussed in this post.

As mentioned, AirPods 3 is the successor to AirPods 2 with considerable upgrades. They share a similar design and use the same H1 chip. But Apple managed to add some exciting new features to AirPods 3. Some are ported from AirPods Pro and AirPods Max.

Compared to AirPods 2, you may find the following 8 improvements and new features of AirPods 3.

Update: in iOS 17, Apple added some new features to AirPods 3, AirPods Pro, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods Max. You can now use the force sensor to mute and unmute during a phone call.

Force Sensor: the best of the new features of AirPods 3

Force Sensor is one of the most well-received features of AirPods Pro.

As explained in this guide in detail, the Force Sensor is superior to “touch” (as in Samsung Galaxy Buds) or “button (press)” controls (e.g., in Jabra Elite Sport) for in-ear wireless earbuds.

In AirPods 2, you have to tap (mostly double-tap) to control the earbuds. With AirPods 3, you can now press the Force Sensor at the stem of the earbuds. More gestures (single, double, triple presses, and long-press) can be used.

Personally, I would rate this Force Sensor as the No.1 new feature of AirPods 3.

In iOS 17, you can now press the force sensor to mute or unmute your microphone during a call.

Sweat and Water Resistance

AirPods 3 has an IPX4 rating for sweat and water resistance. So, it is safe to use these wireless earbuds in a heavy workout or even on rainy days.

As a comparison, AirPods 2 has no official rating for sweat and water resistance, although many AirPods 2 owners use them in the workouts without issues.

The IPX4 is surely one of the most wanted new features of AirPods 3 for many AirPods or AirPods 2 owners.

Longer battery

… Read the rest

How to Use and Adjust Force Sensor on AirPods Pro like a Pro?

Bluetooth headphones, noise cancelling headphones, wireless earbuds

AirPods Pro Force Sensor

Force Sensor on Airpods Pro is one of the most meaningful innovations for wireless earbuds control. It is a far superior solution compared to the touch control as in most other wireless earbuds.

This AirPods Pro guide explains what the Force Sensor on AirPods Pro is, how to use the Force Sensor to control music playing, handle calls, switch noise control modes, and launch Siri. The customization of the press speed and press duration of the Force Sensor on AirPods Pro is also illustrated.

Update: the latest AirPods 3 also features an almost identical Force Sensor. So, this guide also applies to AirPods 3 if you want to learn to use Force Sensor on AirPods 3.

The differences between AirPods Pro and Air Pods 3 are discussed in this guide.

Update 2: the 2nd generation of AirPods Pro (aka AirPods Pro 2) added touch controls to the stem. In addition to all the features included in this guide, AirPods Pro 2 allows you to adjust the volume by swiping up and down.

Update 3: in iOS 17, some new features were added to AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro, AirPods 3, AirPods Max, and AirPods Pro 3. You can use the force sensor to mute and unmute yourself during a call now.

What is Force Sensor on AirPods Pro?

Due to its tiny size, it is usually hard to control wireless earbuds easily.

For example, Jabra Elite Sport used the old-style buttons (Multifunction button, Sports button, volume up button, and volume down button). Many owners complained it is too painful when pressing these buttons.

Most other wireless earbuds (including Apple's own AirPods 2) in the market use touch control. For example, all Samsung's wireless earbuds, including Galaxy Buds, Buds+, Buds Live, Buds Pro, and Buds 2, use similar touch controls. The most common issue with touch control is inadvertent touch. For this reason, Samsung added the “block touches” option in the Galaxy Wearable app to turn off the touch control.

Now, you may understand the powerfulness of the Force Sensor on AirPods Pro. And actually Samsung just shamelessly copied the stemmed design and control on its latest Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro.

You need to “press” the Force Sensor, which is located in the recessed area near … Read the rest

Galaxy Buds 2 vs Galaxy Buds Pro: the Top 8 Pros and Cons

Bluetooth headphones, noise cancelling headphones, wireless earbuds

Galaxy Buds 2 vs Galaxy Buds Pro: the Top 8 Pros and Cons

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 is a significant upgrade of Galaxy Buds+. Galaxy Buds Pro and Galaxy Buds Live are also major upgrades of Galaxy Buds+. So what are the significant differences between Galaxy Buds 2 vs Galaxy Buds Pro?

This wireless earbuds guide explains the top 8 major differences of Galaxy Buds 2 vs Galaxy Buds Pro. Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 has advantages in the 4 aspects (weight, price, battery life, ear-fit test ), and Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro wins in the other 4 categories (water resistance rating, 360 audio, voice detect, and better ANC and ambient sound controls).

Please note, Galaxy Buds Live is substantially different from Galaxy Buds + and Galaxy Buds Pro, as explained in this guide.

Galaxy Buds 2 vs Galaxy Buds Pro: Galaxy Buds 2 wins

Galaxy Buds 2 and Galaxy Buds Pro look similar and share many common features. However, Galaxy Buds 2 is NOT an upgrade to Galaxy Buds Pro. In fact, Samsung positions Galaxy Buds 2 as the successor to Galaxy Buds+.

Although Galaxy Buds 2 is a cheaper version of Galaxy Buds Pro, it has advantages in the following 4 aspects when comparing Galaxy Buds 2 vs Galaxy Buds Pro.

20% Lighter

 At 6.3g, Galaxy Buds Pro is not heavy and is very comfortable to wear. But Galaxy Buds 2 is about 20% lighter.

The design of Galaxy Buds 2 and Pro is very similar, although the material and finishing are slightly different.

So, most users will find it is even more comfortable to wear the Galaxy Buds 2 for an extended period.

Cheaper

 As mentioned, Samsung designed Galaxy Buds 2 as a “lite” version of Galaxy Buds Pro so that Galaxy Buds and Galaxy Buds+ users will feel it is natural to upgrade to Galaxy Buds 2.

The MSRP of Galaxy Buds 2 is $149.99. The street price is around $100 currently. So, it is very affordable.

As a comparison, the MSRP of Galaxy Buds Pro is $199.99. Of course, now you can get a new one for around $150.

The sound quality and active noise cancelling (ANC) on Galaxy Buds Pro and Galaxy Buds 2 are comparable. However, Galaxy Buds 2 uses a less powerful chip BES2500ZP, from a not-well-known vendor. FYI, Galaxy Buds Pro uses a popular chip Broadcom BCM43015.

Ear-fit test

Galaxy Buds 2 offers an ear-fit test to help you check whether … Read the rest

4 ways to check Galaxy Buds Live battery level

Bluetooth headphones, noise cancelling headphones, wireless earbuds

Check Galaxy Buds Live battery level

When using (or planning to use) the earbuds for an extended period, you may want to know Galaxy Buds Live battery level to see whether you need to charge it now for continuous usage in the next few hours.

This Galaxy Buds Live guide explains 4 different ways to check Galaxy Buds Live battery level and the charging case battery level in both Android and iOS devices, including:

  1. Using Galaxy Wearable app (or Samsung Galaxy Buds app on iOS).
  2. Using LED colours in the charging case..
  3. From Bluetooth settings in Android devices.
  4. Using Galaxy Buds Live widget on Android devices (or the Battery widget in iOS devices).

Method 1: Check Galaxy Buds Live battery level and charging case battery level in Galaxy Wearable app (or Galaxy Buds app on iOS)

As explained in this guide, you can manage and customize Galaxy Buds Live in the Galaxy Wearable app (with the Galaxy Buds Live plugin).

In the app, you can also check the battery level of Galaxy Buds Live and the charging case, as shown in the screenshot below.

Check Galaxy Buds Live battery level and charging case battery level in Galaxy Wearable app (or Galaxy Buds app on iOS)
Galaxy Buds Live battery level in Galaxy Wearable app.

For example, as shown in the screenshot below, the L and R earbuds are fully charged (100%). The charging case has 55% battery left.

On iOS devices, the corresponding app is the Samsung Galaxy Buds app. You can find similar information, as shown in the screenshot below.

Of course, you can check the battery level of Galaxy Buds Live in the app only when the buds are connected to the device.

Galaxy Buds Live battery level in Samung Galaxy Buds app in iPhone
Galaxy Buds Live battery level in Samsung Galaxy Buds app in iPhone.

Method 2: Estimate Galaxy Buds Live battery level and charging case battery level from LED colours

If the buds are not connected to any devices, the only way to estimate Galaxy Buds Live battery level and charging case battery level is through the LED light colours.

When you open the charging case, the earbud battery indicator LED, as shown below, will light up automatically with 2 possible colours.

The LED light does not tell you exactly the better level. Instead, it tells you the charging “status” of the buds:

  • Green. It means the buds are fully charged.
  • Red. It means the buds are being charged.
  • Flashing red, if charging is blocked due to abnormal temperatures.
  • No light. It means the buds run out of
… Read the rest

How to manage Galaxy Buds Live in Galaxy Wearable App?

Bluetooth headphones, noise cancelling headphones, sports headphones, wireless earbuds

Galaxy Wearable app

Although you can use the Galaxy Buds Live as standalone wireless earbuds, some settings and customization, as well as firmware updates, can only be performed through the Galaxy Wearable app on Android devices (or Galaxy Buds app on iPhone).

This Galaxy Buds Live guide explains how to use the Galaxy Buds Live plugin in the Galaxy Wearable app to manage, customize, and update Galaxy Buds Live. The feature differences between Galaxy Wearable for Android and Galaxy Buds for iPhone are also discussed.

What's Galaxy Wearable? Why do you need it?

It is impractical for small gadgets like Galaxy Buds Live to configure all settings in the tiny space. So, you need an app to offload some of the functions from the buds.

Meanwhile, as standalone Bluetooth earbuds, there is no way to update the firmware. You need a “host” (or agent) to download the update and transfer it to the earbuds.

Galaxy Wearable is Samsung's app to manage their wearables, including Galaxy Buds (Galaxy Buds, Galaxy Buds+, Galaxy Buds Live, Galaxy Buds Pro, and Galaxy Buds 2) and Galaxy Watch.

On iOS, the Galaxy Buds app supports a few selected buds (Galaxy Buds Plus and Galaxy Buds Live only, to be precise). In this guide, we will first focus on the Galaxy Wearable app. Galaxy Buds app will be briefly discussed later.

Each device, for example, Galaxy Buds Live, needs a plugin inside the Galaxy Wearable app. But you do not install these plugins manually. When you add a new device in Galaxy Wearable, the corresponding plugin will be installed automatically.

Galaxy Wearable is always pre-installed on all Galaxy devices (e.g., Galaxy S21 and Galaxy Note 20). So you do not need to install them. If you are using other Android phones, you have to install the app from the Play store.

How to use Galaxy Wearable to manage Galaxy Buds Live?

Galaxy Wearable (with Galaxy Buds Live plugin) lets you manage and customize Galaxy Buds live. For example,

Connect (add) Galaxy Buds Live to the phone

You can connect Galaxy Buds Live to the phone through … Read the rest

How to use touch control on Galaxy Buds Live?

Bluetooth headphones, noise cancelling headphones, wireless earbuds

use touch control on Galaxy Buds LiveThe fastest way to adjust or control Galaxy Buds Live is to use touch control. You can pause, resume or skip music tracks by using the touch control on Galaxy Buds Live. You may also use touch control on Galaxy Buds Live to answer or reject calls.

This Galaxy Buds Live guide explains how to use touch control on Galaxy Buds Live to control music playing, answer or reject calls, and how to adjust the volume or customize the long tap gesture for the touch control on Galaxy Buds Live.

The touch control on Galaxy Buds Live is slightly different from that on Galaxy Buds and Galaxy Buds +, this guide applies to Galaxy Buds Live only.

What is the touch control on Galaxy Buds Live?

As explained in the layout of Galaxy Buds Live, there is a touch-responsive area (i.e., touch panel) on each bud.

You can use different gestures in this area to control the media, answer or reject calls, and adjust settings for Galaxy Buds Live.

The location of the touch panel is around the top microphone, as illustrated in the picture below.

location of the touch area of Galaxy Buds Live

Galaxy Buds Live accepts single tap, double-tap, triple tap, and long-tap (tap and hold) gestures.

Because two buds (L and R) of Galaxy Buds Live can work alone, the gestures are always identical on both buds. Only the function (action) of the long-tap gesture can be customized.

Of course, you can disable touch control on Galaxy Buds Live (block touches) if you often accidentally touch the area.

Please note, touch control on Galaxy Buds Live (and other Galaxy Buds devices) is similar to that on AirPods and AirPods 2. But it is substantially different from the Force Sensor on AirPods Pro, or AirPods 3

How to use touch control on Galaxy Buds Live?

The functions (actions) of the 4 gestures are different depending on whether you are playing media or you are on a call.

By default, you only need to apply the gesture on one of the buds. The exception is the long-tap gesture, which may require you to apply it on both buds for some special functions.

Single tap

use touch control on Galaxy Buds Live: single tap gestureThe single tap gesture means you tap the touch area once.

The single tap gesture lets you pause (if currently playing) or resume (if currently paused) the music.

If you use the buds to read the messages and notifications, … Read the rest

Layout of Galaxy Buds Live

Bluetooth headphones, noise cancelling headphones, sports headphones, wireless earbuds

Layout of Galaxy Buds LiveYou need to understand the layout of Galaxy Buds Live so that you can use and control it properly.

This Galaxy Buds Live guide explains the layout of Galaxy Buds Live, the function of each part, and how to use each part properly.

As the layout of Galaxy Buds Live is substantially different from that of Galaxy Buds and Galaxy Buds+, this guide applies to Galaxy Buds Live only. For the layout of Galaxy Buds and Galaxy Buds+, please check this guide.

Why do you need to know the layout of Galaxy Buds Live?

While Galaxy Buds Live is simple to connect and use, it is a bit difficult to control it. For example, you may accidentally reject a call if you are not familiar with the location of the touch area.

It is also important to regularly check and clean the speaker vent and air duct of the buds so that Galaxy Buds Live always in the optimal state.

You should know the location of the microphones and antenna to avoid some possible interferences.

Anyway, it is worth spending a few minutes on getting to know the layout of Galaxy Buds Live if you want to get the optimal performance of the buds.

Inside layout of Galaxy Buds Live

On the inside layout of Galaxy Buds Live, you can find the following 6 parts, as illustrated in the picture below:

  1. Charging contacts.
  2. Wingtip.
  3. Wearing sensor.
  4. Speaker (vent).
  5. Microphone (inside).
  6. Airduct (inside).

We now explore them one by one.

inside layout of Galaxy Buds Live

1. Charging contacts

The two charging contacts are used to charge the buds when you put them on the charging case.

To charge the buds, you need to position the buds properly in the case so that the two contacts connect to the corresponding contact points inside the charging case.

As explained in this guide, you must close the charging case if you want to charge the buds. You can follow this guide to check the battery level of Galaxy Buds Live.

If you mess up left and right buds in the case, the charging contacts will not match the contacts in the charging case. And therefore, the buds will not be charged although you close the case.

2. Wingtip

Many Galaxy Buds Live owners haven't realized the existence of the wingtip. They are very small! But they do work as expected.

When you get the Galaxy Buds Live, … Read the rest