Along with AirPods, Apple has launched three new headphones by Beats, Solo3, Powerbeats3 and BeatsX. All headphone sets are powered by Apple W1 chip just like the Airpods and work with iOS 10, macOS 10.12 and watchOS 3 devices. Since the headphones have Bluetooth, they also work with non-Apple devices but without the benefits of the W1 chip.
Beats Solo3 provide a battery life of up to 40 hours. The new wireless headphones feature Fast Fuel for quick charging. In 5 minutes, it can be charged for up to 3 hours of playback. Users can also control the volume and take calls by using on-ear controls and take calls with dual beam-forming microphones. Siri is also available via the on-ear controls for quick activation. Solo3 are available in six colors: gloss black, gloss white, silver, gold, rose gold, and black and cost $299.95.
Powerbeats3 are focused towards fitness users and have ear hooks so they don’t fall during a workout. Containing the same W1 chip, Powerbeats 3 provide 12 hours of battery life. Using Fast Fuel, a 5-minute charge can provide up to 1 hour of usage time. Available in the following colors: white, shock yellow, flash blue, black, and siren red and cost $199.95.
BeatsX is a new line of earphones marketed as affordable. They ship in just two colors, black and white, while more are will be added this fall. BeatsX have 8 hours battery life and a 5-minute charge provides 2 hours of usage time. They will cost $149.95 which makes them cheaper than Apple’s AirPods which will cost $159.
Thanks to the W1 chip, all these new Beats headphones will support same features as AirPods which include issue free wireless connection, seamless connectivity with devices, battery efficiency, and iCloud support for automatic switching between iOS, Mac and Apple Watch.
It is interesting to note that while Beats Solo3 and Powerbeats3 ship with the standard micro-USB charging port and cable, the new BeatsX will utilize a lightning port and ship with a Lightning to USB-A charging cable.
Beats Solo3 are available for purchase in Apple Store right now and ship in 1 – 2 weeks, depending on the color you chose. Powerbeats3 and BeatsX will be available to order this fall.
