Apple has introduced two new additions to its Beats product line, catering to different headphone preferences. Firstly, the Beats Solo Buds, which are true wireless earphones, offer an impressive battery life of up to 18 hours. In contrast, the Beats Solo 4 provides an upgrade option for those seeking a change from their current over-the-ear headphones.
Both the Beats Solo Buds and the Solo 4 offer affordability compared to Apple’s three tiers of AirPods. They also boast a lighter and more compact design. Priced at $80, the Beats Solo Buds are available in four colors: black, gray, purple, and a transparent red with a nostalgic appeal. Equipped with touch controls, these buds can be paired with both Android and iOS devices. Additionally, the USB-C charging case for the Beats Solo Buds is remarkably small, according to Apple.
Featuring Spatial Audio and a custom-built acoustic architecture, the Beats Solo Buds promise enhanced audio experiences. They come with four different ear tip options for improved comfort, though they lack active noise cancellation (ANC). However, this omission contributes to their extended battery life.
The Solo Buds are compatible with Apple’s Find My and Android’s Find My Device features. It’s worth noting that Apple’s claim of 18-hour battery life was tested using the iPhone 15 Pro, leaving some uncertainty regarding its performance with Android devices. The Beats Solo Buds are set to be available in June.
For those who prefer over-the-ear headphones, the Beats Solo 4 offers a plushy design with an emphasis on ultralightness, weighing approximately 7 ounces, compared to the AirPods Max, which weighs twice as much.
Connectivity options for the Beats Solo 4 include Bluetooth, USB-C, or a 3.5mm audio jack, providing flexibility and potentially extending battery life when using wired connections. These headphones boast an impressive battery life of up to 50 hours on a single charge. Priced at $200, the Beats Solo 4 will begin shipping on May 2.