Sony appears to be gearing up for a refresh of its unique LinkBuds true wireless earbuds lineup, with rumors pointing to two new models on the horizon. However, tech enthusiasts may need to exercise patience, as recent reports suggest a potential delay in their release.
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| Upcoming Sony LinkBuds true wireless earbuds poised for a refresh, showcasing their modern design and features |
New Names, New Strategy
According to leaks from The Walkman Blog, Sony is adopting a more consumer-friendly naming convention for its upcoming earbuds:
- LinkBuds Open: Successor to the original LinkBuds with their distinctive open-ear design
- LinkBuds Fit: Replacement for the LinkBuds S, featuring silicon ear tips
This move away from Sony's traditional alphanumeric product codes (like WF-1000XM5) could signal a broader shift in the company's branding strategy, potentially making it easier for consumers to navigate Sony's audio product lineup.
Potential Upgrades
While concrete details remain scarce, industry observers speculate on several possible improvements:
- Enhanced Battery Life: Addressing a common criticism of the current models
- Improved Sound Quality: Possibly leveraging technology from Sony's flagship WF-1000XM5 earbuds
- Noise Cancellation: Rumors suggest some form of noise-canceling capability
- Fitness Focus: The Fit moniker hints at features tailored for active users
Release Date Uncertainty
Despite initial excitement, the launch timeline for these new LinkBuds remains unclear. The Walkman Blog reports that Sony has requested the dismissal of its FCC certification application for the LinkBuds Open, indicating a potential delay. However, a late 2024 release for both models is still considered likely.
Market Competition
Sony faces stiff competition in the true wireless earbud market, particularly from Apple's recently upgraded AirPods Pro 2 and the new AirPods 4. The AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, priced at $179 / £179 / AU$299, sets a high bar for value in the ANC earbud segment.
For Sony to maintain its competitive edge, especially among Android users, the new LinkBuds will need to offer compelling features and performance while maintaining an attractive price point similar to their predecessors.
As we await official announcements from Sony, these leaks offer an intriguing glimpse into the company's plans for its innovative LinkBuds line. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available on these potentially game-changing earbuds.