All of the headphones studied contained hazardous substances, including bisphenols, phthalates, and flame retardants. The study notes that these findings do not pose a threat to people using these headphones in the immediate future, but goes on to observe that repeated exposure to the substances mentioned above pose a long-term risk to public health.
The design of classrooms, childcare facilities, community centers, and public spaces directly shapes how sound is perceived, how communication unfolds, and how inclusion is experienced. Acoustics, spatial configuration, lighting strategies, and material choices can either reinforce barriers to participation or foster environments that support diverse auditory experiences.
I didn't want to get hearing devices because, to me, there was a horrible stigma. People who wore hearing aids were doddering. They didn't listen, they said, 'what, what,' over and over. Worse, the hearing aid would make this squealing sound. I worried that it was the beginning of the end of me.
The glasses, developed over ten years, can guide people living with early-stage dementia through daily activities by identifying everyday objects and providing audio commentary and putting up visual prompts.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is reportedly mulling whether more prescription drugs should be sold over the counter (OTC) at pharmacies. In an interview on Wednesday, FDA commissioner Martin Makary told CNBC that everything should be over the counter except drugs that are deemed unsafe or addictive or that require clinical monitoring. Makary said the agency is reviewing how it decides which drugs can be sold with or without a prescription from a health care practitioner.
The ring-like portable speaker has a lanyard that lets users hook it onto a backpack or simply carry it around the wrist. Another option is to wear it around the neck, turning the device into a personal stereo system that surrounds the user with sound while remaining lightweight and portable.
Laurie Ann Goldman, who helped turn Spanx into a global powerhouse as CEO before moving on to run Avon and Tupperware, is now CEO of Audien Hearing. In an exclusive interview with Fortune ahead of today's announcement, the veteran brand builder talked about her plans to scale the over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid brand, currently used by more than 1.5 million customers.
Our favorite wireless earbuds for most people, the Nothing Ear (a), are marked down to just $79 in all three colors - black, white, and yellow - a healthy discount from the already affordable $109 price point. They have an excellent, open audio profile, top tier touch controls, and impressive noise canceling for such a small pair of earbuds. Beyond the excellent price point, the Nothing Ear (a) offer a surprisingly complete package.
Soundcore by Anker's P20i wireless earbuds feature an ultra-compact in-ear design that fits inside a pocketable charging case and delivers powerful, enhanced bass. Utilizing oversized 10mm dynamic drivers that maintain strong low-frequency performance, these earbuds deliver an overall rich experience when listening to music, watching videos, or listening to podcasts for the price. The wireless connection to your smartphone or tablet is handled via Bluetooth 5.3, providing a consistent audio signal as you move about.
While the dial is still present, it isn't functional and is only present as a signature CMF design element. The absence of the Smart Dial feature doesn't bother me since I seldom used it on the Pro model. The overall case build has a textured but slightly slippery finish. I've dropped it a couple of times because it keeps slipping out of my hands, but I haven't noticed any wear and tear due to my accidental drops.
I tend to find them underwhelming because overall sound quality is subpar compared to the more "traditional" in-ear models. Any promise of noise reduction, or a far-fetched claim of noise cancellation, usually doesn't hold true. The first time I used the Shokz OpenFit Pro ($249.95) I was immediately met with better audio performance than I'd just experienced on Sony's new LinkBuds Clip and noise reduction technology that actually lessened some distractions.
The Bose New QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds feature an Active Noise Control system and an immersive audio system, and they fit well for extended periods. They also include soft ear tips that seal against the ear to eliminate ambient noise, but do not feel too tight. These earbuds feature Bluetooth compatibility for phones, tablets, laptops, and other devices. Additionally, the earbuds have a white smoke finish, have touch controls, and a compact charging case that is small enough to carry in a pocket.
Nothing is reportedly preparing to launch a new pair of over-ear headphones, as part of the company's plans to launch more over-ear headphones in 2026 following the strong performance of the Nothing Headphone 1. Recent leaks suggest the company is working on a more affordable model aimed at expanding its audio lineup. The upcoming headphones are expected to target a wider audience with more affordable pricing, multiple colour options, and a global launch strategy, while details about features and specifications remain limited for now.
Bose SoundTouch was first launched in 2013, with prices ranging from $399-$1,500. During the initial launch, it was announced that support for the devices would last for 13 years. That time has come. Bose SoundTouch announced in October 2025 (via an email) that all SoundTouch speakers would become "dumb" speakers on Feb. 18, 2026. Once that date hits, the speakers will stop receiving updates (including those for security), and the only way they will work will be via HDMI, Aux, or Bluetooth connections.
When people breathe, speak, sing or clear their throats, their bodies are in constant motion. Air flowing through the lungs, the oscillation of vocal folds in the throat and the rhythmic expansion of the chest all produce tiny vibrations that carry valuable information about physiology and health. However, constructing a device that can capture all of these physiological signals has remained a challenge.
JBL has announced wide availability of three new open-style earbuds in early 2026. The JBL Sense Pro and Sense Lite join the original Sense, which came out in 2024. The new Sense Pro and Lite use JBL's OpenSound technology, support Dual Connect and Fast Pair, have an adjustable ear hook for better comfort, and allow for touch control customization through the JBL app.
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