These are the best earbuds we've tried – but they're not our favourite
You learn a thing or two when you review gadgets for a living.
Mostly, the things you learn are about gadgets. Today the staff here in the Digital Life Labs learnt, for instance, that the latest version of Bluetooth, version 5.4, largely makes Internet of Things (IoT) improvements, and that it's perfectly OK if your wireless earbuds still use Bluetooth 5.3.
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7NEWS
7 hours ago
- 7NEWS
Cult-favourite Bose headphones with ‘exceptional noise cancellation' down from $499.95 to just $299
Dreaming of peace and quiet? Now's your chance to block out the world in style. The Bose QuietComfort SC Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones are currently part of a limited-time deal, slashing the price from $499.95 down to just $299 on Amazon Australia. That's a massive 40 per cent saving, and judging by the 200-plus sold in the past month, this deal isn't sticking around. Whether you're tuning into your favourite playlist, zoning out on a long-haul flight, or just trying to drown out the neighbour's lawnmower for the third time this week, these headphones deliver serious noise cancellation with comfort to match. Why are Bose QuietComfort headphones are the real deal? They use a mix of active and passive features to shut off the outside world, meaning you can finally listen to Beyoncé without also hearing bin night roll by. With two listening modes, you can switch between Quiet Mode (for full noise cancelling) and Aware Mode (so you can stay present while still enjoying your soundtrack). It's perfect for city strolls, shared offices or travel. And yes, they sound as good as they look. Thanks to high-fidelity audio and adjustable EQ, you can control the bass, mids and treble to suit your ears. So whether you're vibing to a podcast or a full symphony, every note is crystal clear. Comfort that lasts all day (and night) Forget the days of fiddling with uncomfortable headphones mid-flight. These babies are designed to hug your ears with plush earcup cushions and a padded headband that actually stays put. They're stylish enough to wear all day and comfy enough that you'll forget you're even wearing them. With up to 24 hours of battery life, you're sorted for even the longest playlists. And if you're in a rush, a quick 15-minute charge gives you 2.5 hours of extra playtime. For those who hate fiddly Bluetooth connections, the included audio cable with in-line mic has you covered when the battery runs out or when you just want a good old-fashioned wired setup. Multi-tasker approved Switching between devices is seamless with multi-point connectivity, which means you can jump from your laptop to your phone without the annoying re-pairing dance. It's no surprise that real users are raving. One reviewer said: 'The Bose QuietComfort Headphones are a top-tier choice for anyone seeking exceptional noise cancellation and superb comfort. With a sleek, minimalist design and plush ear cushions, they're ideal for extended use.' Another added: ' Perfect fit. Battery life is amazing, lasts the whole day and charges quick. Noise cancelling is very good.'
The Advertiser
4 days ago
- The Advertiser
How AI-powered Samsung technology is creating homes that are wonder-filled
This is sponsored content for Samsung Australia. Running a household takes up headspace - and in the busiest times of our lives, this demand can quietly pile onto our mental load. Whether you enjoy the satisfaction of doing the chores or would much prefer to kick your feet up on the couch and watch an episode of your favourite TV show, Samsung research reveals that 68 per cent of Australians think about household chores up to four times a day. [1] That's more mental airtime than most New Year's resolutions. The research found that, 83 per cent said they would rather be relaxing in front of the TV, listening to music (61 per cent), or spending time with loved ones (60 per cent). [2] In response to this desire to spend less time maintaining the home and more time on the things that matter, Samsung continues to pioneer AI-powered innovations designed to make everyday living smarter, easier, and more enjoyable. Below, we list four innovations from Samsung's 2025 home appliance and audio visual solutions line-up that represent the next leap forward in Samsung's vision to simplify Australian home life with AI and save Australians time every day - so that household maintenance can be a passing thought, not an intrusive one. Beyond its line-up of smart TVs, in 2025 Samsung has brought its advanced screen technology to a wider range of products including refrigerators, washing machines and more. In particular, the 809L Bespoke AI Family Hub™+ Refrigerator features a 32-inch display that transforms the fridge into a central smart home control hub with the ability to connect, monitor and control compatible third party devices connected through SmartThings's Map View feature. [3] This could mean connecting your fridge to your smart phone to receive calls via Bluetooth or by connecting to your front door camera to greet your guests when they come over for dinner. [4] The 809L Bespoke AI Family Hub™+ Refrigerator can do all sorts of fancy things, such as recognise up to 33 items in your fridge to help you prepare a food list, get recipe suggestions and even manage 'use by dates' by manually setting a date corresponding to the food item. Simply making dinner for one? Users can turn on the 32-inch screen and stream their favourite TV shows and movies while they prepare their meal. Via the AI Home screens, Australians can also use features like the refrigerators' Daily Board to receive personalised information and better manage their day ahead. If you're looking for something a little smaller, the 615L AI Home Side By Side Refrigerator features a 9-inch AI Home screen that manages smart devices in one place, provides access to apps and personalised information and has an Auto Open Door for convenience. [5] By offering a diverse selection of products with varying screen sizes, Samsung aims to enhance usability for consumers while also realising an interconnected smart home. Samsung Vision AI represents the next step in Samsung's journey to deliver intelligent, intuitive and seamless screen experiences. It enables TVs to become smart companions that enhance entertainment and seamlessly integrate into connected lifestyles. This is shown in the Neo QLED 8K QN990F and Neo QLED 4K TV which adapt their brightness and sound based on ambient conditions. This makes the cinematic viewing experience dynamic and spectacular. Similarly, the Q-Series soundbars, like the HW-Q990F and HW-QS700F, use AI-optimised sound to deliver immersive audio tailored to the surrounding environment. This expansion underscores Samsung's commitment to bringing adaptive and intelligent screens to more users, redefining the modern home experience. Samsung's commitment to smarter living doesn't stop at convenience - it extends to security and peace of mind. At the heart of this is AI Home, underpinned by Samsung's Knox Security for robust data protection. With an expanding SmartThings ecosystem, Samsung enables your devices to work together for a more secure and connected home. For instance, if suspicious activity is detected while you're out, the Bespoke Jet Bot Combo™ AI automatically moves to investigate using its built-in camera, sending real-time video to your Galaxy smartphone for instant monitoring and control. Samsung also enables Galaxy devices and home appliances to access 3D Map View, to oversee and manage your entire smart home from anywhere, at any time. The result? A connected ecosystem that adapts your lifestyle - keeping you informed, entertained and protected. Samsung's AI-powered TVs and home appliances are built to help lighten the mental load - turning routine household tasks into smooth, automated experiences. Whether it's intelligent fridges or Smart TVs, each product is designed to give Australians what they crave most: more time to focus on what they love. It also begs the question: How would you spend your time if you had more of it? [1] Nature Research, CE One insights commissioned by Samsung Australia, April 2025. Nationally representative, n= 1,012 [2] Nature Research, CE One insights commissioned by Samsung Australia, April 2025. Nationally representative, n= 1,012 [3] Available in the refrigerators' 32" AI Family Hub and/or 9" AI Home. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required. All products must be connected to SmartThings. Only 3rd party devices that are compatible with SmartThings can be registered. [4] Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required. All products must be connected to SmartThings. Only 3rd party devices that are compatible with SmartThings can be registered. [5] Samsung Account login, app compatibility and user's consent to access certain information. Service availability may vary. This is sponsored content for Samsung Australia. Running a household takes up headspace - and in the busiest times of our lives, this demand can quietly pile onto our mental load. Whether you enjoy the satisfaction of doing the chores or would much prefer to kick your feet up on the couch and watch an episode of your favourite TV show, Samsung research reveals that 68 per cent of Australians think about household chores up to four times a day. [1] That's more mental airtime than most New Year's resolutions. The research found that, 83 per cent said they would rather be relaxing in front of the TV, listening to music (61 per cent), or spending time with loved ones (60 per cent). [2] In response to this desire to spend less time maintaining the home and more time on the things that matter, Samsung continues to pioneer AI-powered innovations designed to make everyday living smarter, easier, and more enjoyable. Below, we list four innovations from Samsung's 2025 home appliance and audio visual solutions line-up that represent the next leap forward in Samsung's vision to simplify Australian home life with AI and save Australians time every day - so that household maintenance can be a passing thought, not an intrusive one. Beyond its line-up of smart TVs, in 2025 Samsung has brought its advanced screen technology to a wider range of products including refrigerators, washing machines and more. In particular, the 809L Bespoke AI Family Hub™+ Refrigerator features a 32-inch display that transforms the fridge into a central smart home control hub with the ability to connect, monitor and control compatible third party devices connected through SmartThings's Map View feature. [3] This could mean connecting your fridge to your smart phone to receive calls via Bluetooth or by connecting to your front door camera to greet your guests when they come over for dinner. [4] The 809L Bespoke AI Family Hub™+ Refrigerator can do all sorts of fancy things, such as recognise up to 33 items in your fridge to help you prepare a food list, get recipe suggestions and even manage 'use by dates' by manually setting a date corresponding to the food item. Simply making dinner for one? Users can turn on the 32-inch screen and stream their favourite TV shows and movies while they prepare their meal. Via the AI Home screens, Australians can also use features like the refrigerators' Daily Board to receive personalised information and better manage their day ahead. If you're looking for something a little smaller, the 615L AI Home Side By Side Refrigerator features a 9-inch AI Home screen that manages smart devices in one place, provides access to apps and personalised information and has an Auto Open Door for convenience. [5] By offering a diverse selection of products with varying screen sizes, Samsung aims to enhance usability for consumers while also realising an interconnected smart home. Samsung Vision AI represents the next step in Samsung's journey to deliver intelligent, intuitive and seamless screen experiences. It enables TVs to become smart companions that enhance entertainment and seamlessly integrate into connected lifestyles. This is shown in the Neo QLED 8K QN990F and Neo QLED 4K TV which adapt their brightness and sound based on ambient conditions. This makes the cinematic viewing experience dynamic and spectacular. Similarly, the Q-Series soundbars, like the HW-Q990F and HW-QS700F, use AI-optimised sound to deliver immersive audio tailored to the surrounding environment. This expansion underscores Samsung's commitment to bringing adaptive and intelligent screens to more users, redefining the modern home experience. Samsung's commitment to smarter living doesn't stop at convenience - it extends to security and peace of mind. At the heart of this is AI Home, underpinned by Samsung's Knox Security for robust data protection. With an expanding SmartThings ecosystem, Samsung enables your devices to work together for a more secure and connected home. For instance, if suspicious activity is detected while you're out, the Bespoke Jet Bot Combo™ AI automatically moves to investigate using its built-in camera, sending real-time video to your Galaxy smartphone for instant monitoring and control. Samsung also enables Galaxy devices and home appliances to access 3D Map View, to oversee and manage your entire smart home from anywhere, at any time. The result? A connected ecosystem that adapts your lifestyle - keeping you informed, entertained and protected. Samsung's AI-powered TVs and home appliances are built to help lighten the mental load - turning routine household tasks into smooth, automated experiences. Whether it's intelligent fridges or Smart TVs, each product is designed to give Australians what they crave most: more time to focus on what they love. It also begs the question: How would you spend your time if you had more of it? [1] Nature Research, CE One insights commissioned by Samsung Australia, April 2025. Nationally representative, n= 1,012 [2] Nature Research, CE One insights commissioned by Samsung Australia, April 2025. Nationally representative, n= 1,012 [3] Available in the refrigerators' 32" AI Family Hub and/or 9" AI Home. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required. All products must be connected to SmartThings. Only 3rd party devices that are compatible with SmartThings can be registered. [4] Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required. All products must be connected to SmartThings. Only 3rd party devices that are compatible with SmartThings can be registered. [5] Samsung Account login, app compatibility and user's consent to access certain information. Service availability may vary. This is sponsored content for Samsung Australia. Running a household takes up headspace - and in the busiest times of our lives, this demand can quietly pile onto our mental load. Whether you enjoy the satisfaction of doing the chores or would much prefer to kick your feet up on the couch and watch an episode of your favourite TV show, Samsung research reveals that 68 per cent of Australians think about household chores up to four times a day. [1] That's more mental airtime than most New Year's resolutions. The research found that, 83 per cent said they would rather be relaxing in front of the TV, listening to music (61 per cent), or spending time with loved ones (60 per cent). [2] In response to this desire to spend less time maintaining the home and more time on the things that matter, Samsung continues to pioneer AI-powered innovations designed to make everyday living smarter, easier, and more enjoyable. Below, we list four innovations from Samsung's 2025 home appliance and audio visual solutions line-up that represent the next leap forward in Samsung's vision to simplify Australian home life with AI and save Australians time every day - so that household maintenance can be a passing thought, not an intrusive one. Beyond its line-up of smart TVs, in 2025 Samsung has brought its advanced screen technology to a wider range of products including refrigerators, washing machines and more. In particular, the 809L Bespoke AI Family Hub™+ Refrigerator features a 32-inch display that transforms the fridge into a central smart home control hub with the ability to connect, monitor and control compatible third party devices connected through SmartThings's Map View feature. [3] This could mean connecting your fridge to your smart phone to receive calls via Bluetooth or by connecting to your front door camera to greet your guests when they come over for dinner. [4] The 809L Bespoke AI Family Hub™+ Refrigerator can do all sorts of fancy things, such as recognise up to 33 items in your fridge to help you prepare a food list, get recipe suggestions and even manage 'use by dates' by manually setting a date corresponding to the food item. Simply making dinner for one? Users can turn on the 32-inch screen and stream their favourite TV shows and movies while they prepare their meal. Via the AI Home screens, Australians can also use features like the refrigerators' Daily Board to receive personalised information and better manage their day ahead. If you're looking for something a little smaller, the 615L AI Home Side By Side Refrigerator features a 9-inch AI Home screen that manages smart devices in one place, provides access to apps and personalised information and has an Auto Open Door for convenience. [5] By offering a diverse selection of products with varying screen sizes, Samsung aims to enhance usability for consumers while also realising an interconnected smart home. Samsung Vision AI represents the next step in Samsung's journey to deliver intelligent, intuitive and seamless screen experiences. It enables TVs to become smart companions that enhance entertainment and seamlessly integrate into connected lifestyles. This is shown in the Neo QLED 8K QN990F and Neo QLED 4K TV which adapt their brightness and sound based on ambient conditions. This makes the cinematic viewing experience dynamic and spectacular. Similarly, the Q-Series soundbars, like the HW-Q990F and HW-QS700F, use AI-optimised sound to deliver immersive audio tailored to the surrounding environment. This expansion underscores Samsung's commitment to bringing adaptive and intelligent screens to more users, redefining the modern home experience. Samsung's commitment to smarter living doesn't stop at convenience - it extends to security and peace of mind. At the heart of this is AI Home, underpinned by Samsung's Knox Security for robust data protection. With an expanding SmartThings ecosystem, Samsung enables your devices to work together for a more secure and connected home. For instance, if suspicious activity is detected while you're out, the Bespoke Jet Bot Combo™ AI automatically moves to investigate using its built-in camera, sending real-time video to your Galaxy smartphone for instant monitoring and control. Samsung also enables Galaxy devices and home appliances to access 3D Map View, to oversee and manage your entire smart home from anywhere, at any time. The result? A connected ecosystem that adapts your lifestyle - keeping you informed, entertained and protected. Samsung's AI-powered TVs and home appliances are built to help lighten the mental load - turning routine household tasks into smooth, automated experiences. Whether it's intelligent fridges or Smart TVs, each product is designed to give Australians what they crave most: more time to focus on what they love. It also begs the question: How would you spend your time if you had more of it? [1] Nature Research, CE One insights commissioned by Samsung Australia, April 2025. Nationally representative, n= 1,012 [2] Nature Research, CE One insights commissioned by Samsung Australia, April 2025. Nationally representative, n= 1,012 [3] Available in the refrigerators' 32" AI Family Hub and/or 9" AI Home. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required. All products must be connected to SmartThings. Only 3rd party devices that are compatible with SmartThings can be registered. [4] Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required. All products must be connected to SmartThings. Only 3rd party devices that are compatible with SmartThings can be registered. [5] Samsung Account login, app compatibility and user's consent to access certain information. Service availability may vary.
Canberra Times
4 days ago
- Canberra Times
How AI-powered Samsung technology is creating homes that are wonder-filled
How AI-powered Samsung technology is creating homes that are wonder-filled Samsung has created AI systems that give you time back. Photo supplied. This is sponsored content for Samsung Australia. Running a household takes up headspace - and in the busiest times of our lives, this demand can quietly pile onto our mental load. Whether you enjoy the satisfaction of doing the chores or would much prefer to kick your feet up on the couch and watch an episode of your favourite TV show, Samsung research reveals that 68 per cent of Australians think about household chores up to four times a day. [1] That's more mental airtime than most New Year's resolutions. The research found that, 83 per cent said they would rather be relaxing in front of the TV, listening to music (61 per cent), or spending time with loved ones (60 per cent). [2] In response to this desire to spend less time maintaining the home and more time on the things that matter, Samsung continues to pioneer AI-powered innovations designed to make everyday living smarter, easier, and more enjoyable. Below, we list four innovations from Samsung's 2025 home appliance and audio visual solutions line-up that represent the next leap forward in Samsung's vision to simplify Australian home life with AI and save Australians time every day - so that household maintenance can be a passing thought, not an intrusive one. Upgrade your daily routine with the 809L Bespoke AI Family Hub™+ Refrigerator. Photo supplied. Screens everywhere - More than just TVs Beyond its line-up of smart TVs, in 2025 Samsung has brought its advanced screen technology to a wider range of products including refrigerators, washing machines and more. In particular, the 809L Bespoke AI Family Hub™+ Refrigerator features a 32-inch display that transforms the fridge into a central smart home control hub with the ability to connect, monitor and control compatible third party devices connected through SmartThings's Map View feature. [3] This could mean connecting your fridge to your smart phone to receive calls via Bluetooth or by connecting to your front door camera to greet your guests when they come over for dinner. [4] The 809L Bespoke AI Family Hub™+ Refrigerator can do all sorts of fancy things, such as recognise up to 33 items in your fridge to help you prepare a food list, get recipe suggestions and even manage 'use by dates' by manually setting a date corresponding to the food item. Simply making dinner for one? Users can turn on the 32-inch screen and stream their favourite TV shows and movies while they prepare their meal. Via the AI Home screens, Australians can also use features like the refrigerators' Daily Board to receive personalised information and better manage their day ahead. If you're looking for something a little smaller, the 615L AI Home Side By Side Refrigerator features a 9-inch AI Home screen that manages smart devices in one place, provides access to apps and personalised information and has an Auto Open Door for convenience. [5] By offering a diverse selection of products with varying screen sizes, Samsung aims to enhance usability for consumers while also realising an interconnected smart home. Enjoy an immersive audio experience with Samsung's HW-Q990F Q Series soundbars. Photo supplied. Vision AI - Intelligent screens that adapt to your needs Samsung Vision AI represents the next step in Samsung's journey to deliver intelligent, intuitive and seamless screen experiences. It enables TVs to become smart companions that enhance entertainment and seamlessly integrate into connected lifestyles. This is shown in the Neo QLED 8K QN990F and Neo QLED 4K TV which adapt their brightness and sound based on ambient conditions. This makes the cinematic viewing experience dynamic and spectacular. Similarly, the Q-Series soundbars, like the HW-Q990F and HW-QS700F, use AI-optimised sound to deliver immersive audio tailored to the surrounding environment. This expansion underscores Samsung's commitment to bringing adaptive and intelligent screens to more users, redefining the modern home experience. AI Home and SmartThings - Smarter, safer living Samsung's commitment to smarter living doesn't stop at convenience - it extends to security and peace of mind. At the heart of this is AI Home, underpinned by Samsung's Knox Security for robust data protection. With an expanding SmartThings ecosystem, Samsung enables your devices to work together for a more secure and connected home. For instance, if suspicious activity is detected while you're out, the Bespoke Jet Bot Combo™ AI automatically moves to investigate using its built-in camera, sending real-time video to your Galaxy smartphone for instant monitoring and control. Samsung also enables Galaxy devices and home appliances to access 3D Map View, to oversee and manage your entire smart home from anywhere, at any time. The result? A connected ecosystem that adapts your lifestyle - keeping you informed, entertained and protected. AI that gives you time back Samsung's AI-powered TVs and home appliances are built to help lighten the mental load - turning routine household tasks into smooth, automated experiences. Whether it's intelligent fridges or Smart TVs, each product is designed to give Australians what they crave most: more time to focus on what they love. It also begs the question: How would you spend your time if you had more of it? [1] Nature Research, CE One insights commissioned by Samsung Australia, April 2025. Nationally representative, n= 1,012 [2] Nature Research, CE One insights commissioned by Samsung Australia, April 2025. Nationally representative, n= 1,012 [3] Available in the refrigerators' 32" AI Family Hub and/or 9" AI Home. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required. All products must be connected to SmartThings. Only 3rd party devices that are compatible with SmartThings can be registered. [4] Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required. All products must be connected to SmartThings. Only 3rd party devices that are compatible with SmartThings can be registered.
