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New Beats Solo 4 to Feature Improved Sound, USB-C

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Apple is planning to release a new version of the Beats Solo 4 headphones, and hints of the refresh have been seen in both iOS updates and FCC filings in recent weeks. We've already seen the design and some of the features, with rumors pointing to support for Spatial Audio, but the headphones' full specs were today shared by 9to5Mac ahead of launch.

new-beats-solo-4.jpg

The Beats Solo 4 will feature longer battery life, USB-C, and better audio, with the full range of expected updates listed below.
  • Custom-built 40mm transducers with better clarity and range.
  • USB-C port for charging and high-resolution lossless audio.
  • 3.5mm port will still be available for lossless audio.
  • 50 hours of playback time, up 10 hours from the Beats Solo 3.
  • Fast Fuel charging for five hours of playback with a 10 minute charge.
  • Find My support for iOS devices.
  • One-touch pairing with Android devices.
  • UltraPlush ear cushions for improved comfort.
  • Bluetooth 5.3 support.
  • Beamforming mics with new voice algorithms for improved clarity.
Apple plans to sell the Beats Solo 4 for $200, which is the same price as the Beats Solo 3. There is no official word yet on when the headphones will be released, but rumors suggest they could come on May 2.

Article Link: New Beats Solo 4 to Feature Improved Sound, USB-C
 
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https://www.macrumors.com/2024/04/02/new-beats-solo-4-to-feature-improved-sound-usb-c/
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Fuzzball84

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Apr 19, 2015
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The only thing Id say... is that Ive bought so many devices with beam forming mics... but I can never get them to work.

I was thinking it was some sort of tractor beam, but I realised it was just the magnets in them that was moving objects.

Then I thought maybe I was being stupid, and they made light beams, but no matter how much I look, I cannot see them.

But the mics work remarkably well on these devices with beam forming... must be using some really good tech.
 
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Fuzzball84

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steve09090 said:
The H2 is for instant pairing and swapping with Apple devices. As far as 'decent audio', these are not meant for audiophiles. Bass heavy, transit headphones imo.
Click to expand...
ACtually , I noticed the battery improvement too... significant increase. And although they are not audiophiles earphones... a nice improvement in audio quality too... but they did have improved drivers... Im sure they employ lots of processing tricks to improve the audio anyhow.
 
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Populus

Populus

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Aug 24, 2012
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No noise cancelation (unlike my Beats Solo Pro), no H2 chip, and no hot-swapping between Apple devices… Nope, I’m sticking with my Solo Pro. Although I’ll probably have to change the ear cushions, as they are a bit degraded after 3 years…
 
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maczaddy

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Feb 13, 2024
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Still no basic auto pause or shut off if not in use next the pro version can’t do this either and I’m 100% confidant that’s why it’s always on sale for 40% off.
 
Stiksi

Stiksi

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Dec 7, 2007
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Seems like Apple is targeting Apple users with Apple earphones and switching Beats to focusing on Android. Interesting tactic.
 
coffeemilktea

coffeemilktea

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Nov 25, 2022
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MacRumors said:
One-touch pairing with Android devices.
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Interesting since, uh... I don't think Beats are a green bubble product, if you know what I mean. 🤔

(this is not entirely meant as a joke; someone who goes out of their way to get a Pixel 8 Pro or Galaxy S24 Ultra AND who also wants pricy headphones will probably spring for Sennheiser or Sony headphones instead.)
 
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TechRemarker

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Jun 17, 2009
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Years ago the PowerBeats Pro were due for a needed update for all of us that in ear headphones never stay in. Years later and think Apple truly forgot they have that product.
 
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steve09090

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Aug 12, 2008
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Fuzzball84 said:
ACtually , I noticed the battery improvement too... significant increase. And although they are not audiophiles earphones... a nice improvement in audio quality too... but they did have improved drivers... Im sure they employ lots of processing tricks to improve the audio anyhow.
Click to expand...
I’m sure you’re right. I think headphones have generally gone the way of phones now. They’ve reached peak improvement given the Bluetooth restrictions on lossless audio. But having the cable available shows they are still capable.

I’m just hoping they didn’t ditch the H chip like they did for the pros.
 
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steve09090

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Aug 12, 2008
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TechRemarker said:
Years ago the PowerBeats Pro were due for a needed update for all of us that in ear headphones never stay in. Years later and think Apple truly forgot they have that product.
Click to expand...
I’m on my second pair because I have ‘those’ ears. But I just tried a workout with my wife’s new AirPods Pro 2, and whilst they stay in (surprisingly) I think I’ll stick to my Powerbeats Pro. I wish they’d do a noise cancelling version for people with goofy ears.

Hopefully an Apple Employee will drop around and let us know when.
 
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MacFan23

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Feb 17, 2010
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steve09090 said:
I’m on my second pair because I have ‘those’ ears. But I just tried a workout with my wife’s new AirPods Pro 2, and whilst they stay in (surprisingly) I think I’ll stick to my Powerbeats Pro. I wish they’d do a noise cancelling version for people with goofy ears.

Hopefully an Apple Employee will drop around and let us know when.
Click to expand...
I've been waiting for these too. I've kinda given up hope and think they see the Beats Fit Pro as that product unfortunately.
 
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