Introducing Sony's New LinkBuds: Enhanced Wearability & Voice Controls
Sony has recently announced exciting new versions of its popular LinkBuds wireless earbuds, showcasing improvements in wearability and user-friendly voice controls. The LinkBuds Open and LinkBuds Fit are now available for preorder at a price of $199.99, with another addition to the lineup— the LinkBuds Speaker— debuting at $179.99. However, it's worth noting that the speaker is limited to the US market.
The Evolution of LinkBuds
The original Sony LinkBuds were introduced in early 2022, known for their distinctive "open ring design." This innovative form feature did away with traditional sound-isolating ear tips, employing a donut-shaped speaker that allows for a constant flow of ambient sound. Now, the latest iteration, the LinkBuds Open, refines this concept further.
Upgraded Design and Comfort
While maintaining a similar aesthetic, the new LinkBuds Open are slightly smaller and equipped with an 11-millimeter speaker designed to enhance both volume and bass performance. Another significant improvement is the incorporation of redesigned silicone wings termed "Air Fitting Supporters," which minimize pressure points, ensuring a comfortable fit for extended wear.
Smart Voice Control Features
With newly integrated voice control capabilities, users can now adjust volume, skip tracks, and change ANC modes effortlessly, even on devices without built-in voice assistants. This feature is particularly handy for console gamers or for accessing in-flight entertainment systems.
Battery Life and Efficiency
The LinkBuds Open boast an impressive battery life of eight hours for the earbuds alone, extending to a total of 22 hours with the charging case. In a pinch? A three-minute quick charge provides approximately one hour of music playback. Users can rely on the new "auto battery save" feature that conserves power by disabling certain functions once battery levels drop below 20%.
LinkBuds Fit: A Smarter, Lighter Option
The LinkBuds Fit present a compact alternative to the LinkBuds S that launched in mid-2022, specifically catering to users who prefer Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). These buds come with shorter ear tips, and like the LinkBuds Open, feature "Air Fitting Supporters" for better weight distribution across the ear.
Battery Life Comparison
While the LinkBuds Fit offer a slightly reduced battery life of 5.5 hours on their own, the pairing with their charging case provides a cumulative total of 21 hours of playback.
Advanced Audio Features
Powered by the same V2 processor as the flagship WF-1000XM5 model, the LinkBuds Fit deliver enhanced ANC and ambient sound modes. Additionally, the inclusion of the Dynamix Driver X ensures superior sound quality, with Bluetooth functionality matching that of the LinkBuds Open.
LinkBuds Accessories and Customization
To allow personalization of the LinkBuds Fit’s appearance, Sony will offer the "Air Fitting Supporters" in attractive colors such as ash pink, ash green, and pure black, priced at $9.99. A silicone cover for the charging case can be purchased for a modest $19.99.
Introducing the LinkBuds Speaker
Expanding the LinkBuds product line, the newly unveiled LinkBuds Speaker is designed to complement the wireless earbuds. This speaker features a single tweeter and woofer paired with a passive radiator, paired in a handy charging dock. With battery life lasting up to 25 hours at moderate volumes and up to six hours at maximum volume, it’s built for convenience.
Unique Features
The standout feature of the LinkBuds Speaker is its revolutionary Auto Switch mode, which automatically transitions music playback from the earbuds to the speaker when you approach. This seamless transition is compatible with several Sony models, allowing for an easy switch from private listening to shared sound.
Speakerphone Capabilities and Daily Routines
Equipped with a built-in microphone, the LinkBuds Speaker can serve as a speakerphone. Users can also set streaming preferences and schedule daily routines via a mobile app, effectively allowing it to double as an alarm clock. It comes in gray and black finishes.
Design Considerations
While its design includes limited IPX4 splash resistance, it's primarily intended for indoor use, where it can remain protected from harsher weather conditions.
Final Thoughts
Sony continues to push boundaries with the LinkBuds lineup, enhancing features, comfort, and user experience. As wireless earbuds and smart speakers make their way into daily life, innovations like these can improve connectivity and audio enjoyment across the board.
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