Wearables
Samsung is reportedly building a new Android-based watch
Goodbye Tizen?
Before the current rise of smartwatches, Samsung captured swaths of the emerging industry armed with the Linux-based Tizen operating system. However, the operating system is definitely one of the most controversial ones out there, especially when compared to Apple’s watchOS and Google’s Wear OS. To the clamor of Android smartwatch fans, Samsung is reportedly building a new Android-based watch, instead of a Tizen one.
Leaked by renowned Samsung leaker Ice Universe, Samsung will return to its Android roots in the next smartwatch launch. Notably, the leaker used “Android,” instead of Google’s Wear OS. With that wording, it remains ambiguous which form of Android will don the upcoming Gear.
Samsung's new watch will use Android to replace Tizen.
— Ice Universe (@UniverseIce) February 19, 2021
As mentioned above, Samsung had used Android for its smartwatches previously. The last one to use the operating system was 2013’s Galaxy Gear. Since then, Samsung switched to Tizen. At the time, Google’s smartwatch software ecosystem was still in its relative infancy. Now, however, Google can boast a thriving ecosystem filled with numerous devices from various brands. One of the key strengths that Samsung can tap is a wider variety of compatible apps. Though Tizen is still superior in terms of battery life, the Linux system doesn’t exactly have a robust gallery of apps.
Currently, no one knows when the next Galaxy Watch, if it’s called that this year, will launch. Though Ice Universe’s leak definitely carries some weight, the upcoming Android-based watch will have to wait for the next report.
SEE ALSO: Samsung is launching ECG monitoring for the Galaxy Watch 3
The HUAWEI FreeBuds 7i, featuring AI noise cancellation, is coming to the Philippines on February 2. It promises a sub-PhP 5,000 asking price, and an advanced noise cancellation for earbuds under the segment.
Of course, users are also assured of immersive audio, pro-level call clarity, and more features in one sleek, modern package.
At the wearables’ core is Dynamic ANC 4.0. This is capable of an average full-band noise reduction depth of 28 dB and up to 55 dB maximum noise cancellation.
The earbuds focus on average full-band performance rather than isolated frequency peaks. This way, the noise reduction experience is more natural and consistent — aligning with how the human ear perceives sound.
The advanced system is powered by an ultra-large 8 mm² rear vent and super-sized air guide cavity. These are designed to absorb and slow down external noise more effectively. They also detect and cancel noise faster and more accurately.
Moreover, the HUAWEI Freebuds 7i also boast of an advanced six-microphone system that can suppress up to 90 dB of ambient noise.
Combined with a bone-conduction mic, Voice Pickup Unit (VPU), and AI call noise reduction, users are ensured of stable and clear calls, wherever they may be.
New dimension of immersive sound
Beyond the ANC capabilities, HUAWEI’s latest offering is equipped with a newly added Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) for Unlimited Spatial Audio with six-axis sensor and head tracking.
This creates a dynamic 3D soundstage that adapts naturally as users move. Unlike traditional spatial audio systems, the feature works independently of device type or content source.
Inside are 11mm quad-magnetic dynamic drivers paired with Hi-Res Audio certification. The balanced sound signature features punchy bass and bright yet delicate treble. Such is suited for several scenarios, including music, gaming, videos, and calls.
Other features include IP54 dust and water resistance, as well as dual-device connectivity and full compatibility with both Android and iOS.
The buds last up to 35 hours along with their charging case. Fast charging support also offers hours of listening for just a brief 10-minute charge.
Sony has officially announced the Sony LinkBuds Clip, giving consumers a new open-clip truly wireless earbuds option instead of the usual in-ear variant.
Designed with customer feedback in mind, the LinkBuds Clip combines a natural listening experience and situational awareness. They feature a unique, rounded, and ergonomic open shape that fits comfortably in any ear.
The C-shaped design doesn’t intrude the ear canal and securely and easily fits various ear shapes. The main body and upper band provide a wide fitting range and excellent stability as well.
Matching-colored Air Fitting Cushions are also included, allowing users to adjust the fit by changing the band’s position. This socially friendly design also enables listening while talking naturally to people around.
Of course, the new product does not compromise on Sony’s renowned audio quality. There are three listening modes: Standard, Voice Boost, and Sound Leakage Reduction. Listeners can expect clean and balanced bass, mids, and trebles for both music and podcasts.
Digital Sound Enhancement restores high-frequency details to deliver sound closer to the original recording.
Moreover, clear calls with advanced voice pickup technology also isolates and enhances voice for scenarios which need them.
Sony leveraged AI for this feature’s noise reduction algorithm to help with clear speech across a wide range of environments.
The Sony LinkBuds Clip offers up to 37 hours of battery life and an IPX4 water resistance, among other useful features like 360-degree audio and custom settings via the Sound Connect app.
The LinkBuds Clip come in four colors: Lavender, griege, green, and black, with the charging case also customizable with different color pieces. Sony’s latest wearable costs US$ 229.99.
News
Two new Xiaomi audio wearables join REDMI Note 15 Series
The Mijia Smart Audio Glasses and REDMI Buds 8 Lite
Xiaomi has launched two new audio wearables on the same day it launched the REDMI Note 15 in the Philippines.
These two wearables are the Mijia Smart Audio Glasses and the REDMI Buds 8 Lite.
The two new offerings expand Xiaomi’s ecosystem, bringing innovative features in different form factors to users.
Mijia Smart Audio Glasses
The Mijia Smart Audio Glasses house a speaker system and four built-in microphones in a stylish eyewear design.
This enables users to stay aware of surroundings while enjoying crystal-clear audio and 4.5m/s wind noise reduction.
It is an ideal accessory for city walks, outdoor travel, and even more discreet scenarios like meetings and calls with a new privacy mode.
This mode leverages a custom algorithm to ensure clear audio while significantly reducing sound leakage.
Inside the glasses are non-coaxial steel-cased batteries. Full charging takes just about an hour, and fuels up to 13 hours of music playback.
Users can connect the wearable to the Xiaomi Glasses app for greater customization and control.
The Mijia glasses are available in three styles: Titanium, Pilot-Style, and Browline. All lenses can be replaced with prescription ones if needed.
In addition, the Browline and Titanium come with up to 25% blue light protection lenses while the Pilot-Style features up to a 99.99% UV light blocking rate.
Pricing:
- Browline and Pilot-Style: Starts at PhP 10,999
- Titanium: Starts at PhP 12,999
REDMI Buds 8 Lite
On the other hand, the REDMI Buds 8 Lite are built for those who seek practicality and crystal-clear sound at the same time.
The buds house large 12.4mm titanium-diaphragm drivers for clear sound and rich detail. They support Bluetooth 5.4 connection for AAC and SBC audio codecs for high-quality audio across a wide range of devices.
Moreover, the REDMI Buds 8 Lite feature up to 42dB hybrid active noise cancellation, on top of a Transparency Mode.
The ANC uses a combination of talk and feedback microphones to effectively detect and suppress ambient noise.
And with the Xiaomi Earbuds app, users can tailor-fit the sound better to their liking with five pre-installed EQ modes and the option to customize EQ tuning.
The Buds 8 Lite is available in Black, White, and Blue starting at PhP 1,199.
Joining the two new Xiaomi audio wearables are other AIoT devices that are now available at online and offline Xiaomi stores: the Mijia Smart Air Purifier Max, Xiaomi Electric Scooter 6, and 6 Lite.
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