Apple Inc. was founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne as Apple Computer Company, renamed to Apple Inc. in 2007. Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Apple is the largest technology company by revenue ($391.04 billion in 2024). In audio, Apple launched AirPods in 2016, becoming a wireless audio market leader, and HomePod in 2017 as their smart speaker. Apple's acoustics group has approximately 300 members developing audio technology for AirPods, HomePods, and other devices, including spatial audio and 3D sound features. With over 100,000 employees globally, Apple continues active development in audio products while maintaining their position as a leader in consumer electronics, emphasizing accessibility, inclusion, and privacy in their corporate culture.
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iOS 26 introduces the innovative AutoMix feature in Apple Music, allowing seamless transitions between tracks using AI technology.
Lyrics translation and pronunciation guides are now available for select songs, providing accurate translations vetted by native speakers.
Users can pin up to six favorite albums or playlists for quick access in the music library interface.

Apple is developing new AirPods models, including AirPods 5 and AirPods Pro 4, with a planned release not before fall next year.
These upcoming AirPods will feature the advanced Apple H3 chip, enhancing audio quality and reducing latency for a superior user experience.
The H3 chip was not present in the AirPods Pro 3, marking a significant upgrade for the new models.

Apple has announced that its paid video streaming service "Apple TV+" will be renamed "Apple TV" starting October 13.
The Brad Pitt movie "F1/Formula One" will be globally released on Apple TV on December 12.
Subscribers in Japan confirmed the December 12 release date for "F1/Formula One" via Apple TV.

Apple plans to release updated models of Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini, targeting a launch in early 2026.
The upcoming Apple TV 4K is expected to feature the A17 Bionic chip, enhancing performance and possibly focusing on gaming capabilities.
While technical details for the new HomePod mini remain scarce, its release will mark a significant update for Apple's smart speaker lineup.

Apple announced the new iPad Pro featuring the advanced M5 chip, launching October 22, available in 11-inch and 13-inch models.
The M5 chip offers significant performance improvements, including a 10-core GPU and third-generation ray-tracing engine for enhanced AI and graphics capabilities.
Display options include Ultra Retina XDR screens with 1000 nit full-screen brightness and up to 1600 nit HDR peak brightness, supporting ProMotion technology.

Audiomovers unveils the AirCaster plugin, allowing direct DAW audio streaming to AirPlay 2-enabled devices without requiring mix bouncing or file transfers.
The plugin supports high-quality audio streaming up to 24-bit/48kHz on macOS 15.2+, ensuring precise playback through consumer devices like Sonos, HomePod, and more.
AirCaster enhances workflow for audio professionals by enabling real-time mix monitoring across AirPlay-enabled setups, simplifying the creation of universally optimized sound.

Apple is set to release a new smart home device in spring, competing with Amazon Echo Show 8, priced at approximately $199.
The device will be available in two versions: a HomePod Mini-like model and a wall-mounted tablet.
Both models feature 7-inch nearly square displays, built-in FaceTime cameras, speakers, and microphones for enhanced user experiences.

Apple Vision Pro integrates the advanced M5 chip, offering enhanced performance, including improved rendering capabilities and extended battery life.
Featuring a third-generation 3nm technology-based 10-core CPU, the M5 chip delivers superior multitasking performance and accelerated application responsiveness.
The device employs hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading, enhancing visual realism in gaming experiences.

Deezer introduces universal playlist sharing, allowing users to share playlists seamlessly across platforms like Apple Music, Spotify, and YouTube Music.
Using automatic song recognition technology, Deezer ensures the shared playlist matches accurately on the recipient's platform.
Since April 2025, Deezer users can share individual songs with friends on competing platforms, enhancing cross-platform compatibility.

Apple plans to release the next-generation Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini in early 2026, delaying their previous schedules.
The upcoming Apple TV 4K is expected to feature the A17 Bionic chip, enhancing performance and potentially focusing on gaming and smart home functionality.
The new HomePod mini, succeeding its predecessor introduced several years ago, is anticipated to provide improved wireless speaker capabilities.

The Questyle QCC Dongle Pro is the first MFi-certified Bluetooth transmitter supporting aptX Lossless and LDAC for high-quality audio transmission.
It features compatibility with Apple devices including iPhone 17, iPad, and Mac, alongside Plug & Play functionality with USB-C and USB-A adapter inclusion.
Offering aptX Lossless (1.2 Mbps) and LDAC (up to 990 kbps), the device ensures CD-quality audio with minimal latency (<40 ms for gaming).

Live Translation, a feature introduced with Apple's AirPods Pro 3, is now supported on AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 with ANC.
This AI-powered feature translates ambient audio in real-time and displays responses on the iPhone screen.
Access to Live Translation on older AirPods models requires an iPhone 15 Pro or newer and iOS 26 installed.

Fiedler Audio has launched Mastering Console 2.0, a professional mastering software approved by Dolby Labs for Dolby Atmos ADM/BWF workflows.
The software includes OBAM plug-in hosting, enabling users to process Dolby Atmos mixes and their stereo versions efficiently.
Features include loudness measurement, a True Peak Limiter, headphone and speaker monitoring, and support for binaural and Apple Spatial Audio.

JPLAY, a renowned hi-fi application, partners with Audio Video Show, showcasing advanced audio technology and offering unique user benefits.
Audio Video Show occurs October 24-26 in Warsaw locations: PGE Narodowy, Radisson Blu Sobieski, and Golden Tulip hotels.
JPLAY optimizes digital music playback, supporting PCM and DSD formats, streaming services like Qobuz/Tidal, and integrating with top audio hardware brands.

Philips introduces its Ambilight TVs in the US market, now featuring Roku OS for enhanced streaming and connectivity.
Ambilight technology projects color-matched lighting onto walls for immersive visual experiences synchronized with on-screen content.
Available models include 43", 50", 55", and 65" screens with 4K UHD resolution and HDR10 support.

RidePods Game Exclusively for Apple AirPods**: RidePods is the first game designed to work exclusively with Apple AirPods models (AirPods 3, AirPods Pro, AirPods 4).
Innovative Head Motion Control**: Players use head tilts detected by AirPods sensors to steer a motorbike in the game, navigating through obstacles.
Release Date and Availability**: Released on September 28, 2025, RidePods is available for download via the App Store.

The Powerbeats Fit wireless earbuds by Beats (an Apple brand) were recently leaked, revealing several advanced features and specifications.
These sports-focused earbuds include Active Noise Cancellation with Transparency Mode and feature water resistance rated at IPX4.
They offer up to 7 hours of playback time and 30 hours with the charging case, along with fast charging (5 minutes for 1 hour of use).

Xiaomi introduces the TV S Pro Mini LED Series 2026, featuring 4K Ultra HD resolution and advanced Mini-LED backlighting with Quantum Dot technology.
These models support multiple HDR formats, including Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG, and HDR10, and achieve a peak brightness of 1700 nits.
Available in 55, 65, and 75-inch sizes, the TVs offer native 144 Hz refresh rates, with up to 288 Hz in Game Boost mode at 1080p resolution.

The Aurzen D1R Cube is a compact smart projector powered by Roku TV OS, offering a seamless streaming experience with a familiar interface.
The projector supports a Full HD 1080p resolution and 330 ANSI lumens brightness, suitable for screen sizes from 40 to 150 inches.
Key features include auto-focus, keystone correction, and integration with the Roku ecosystem for enhanced usability and content access.

Apple has introduced the N1 chip, a proprietary network chip supporting Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread protocols, replacing Broadcom chips.
The N1 chip enhances functionalities such as Personal Hotspot and AirDrop, and is set to be included in products like iPhone 17 and Apple TV.
Apple is deploying a new audio-visual protocol, SPR AVS, designed to replace Bluetooth and AirPlay, offering low latency and lossless audio transmission.

Apple introduced the AirPods Pro 3 with a cutting-edge PPG heart rate sensor, improving accuracy over the Powerbeats Pro 2's optical sensor.
The AirPods Pro 3's PPG sensor utilizes infrared technology at 256 Hz, surpassing the Powerbeats Pro 2's 100 Hz green LED optical system.
Expert testing demonstrated the AirPods Pro 3 achieved heart rate measurement precision comparable to Garmin Fenix 8 Pro smartwatches.

The AirPods Pro 3 introduces advanced features like IP57 dust and water resistance and built-in heart rate sensors for workout tracking.
The Live Translation feature, initially exclusive to the AirPods Pro 3, will become available on the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 with ANC.
This innovative feature supports real-time speech translation in multiple languages, with plans to expand language support further by year-end.

Apple Powerbeats Fit are set to release in Fall 2025, featuring enhanced design for stability and comfort, and IPX4 water resistance.
These TWS earbuds offer up to 7-hour battery life, extendable to 30 hours with the case, and 5-minute quick charge for 1-hour playback.
Advanced audio features include Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency Mode, Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, and adaptive equalizer.

Apple Powerbeats Fit earbuds feature a redesigned, compact form factor compared to previous Powerbeats models.
Ergonomic design ensures secure and comfortable fit, tailored for an active and sporty lifestyle.
Multiple color options available to suit various personal preferences.

Mophie introduces the Max Headphones Charging Stand**, enabling wireless charging for Apple AirPods Max headphones using a USB-C dongle attachment for seamless operation.
Integrated dual charging features**, with a base pad supporting wireless charging for iPhones and AirPods earbuds, enhancing multifunctionality.
Optimized charging design**, featuring magnetic alignment and soft-touch silicone cradle for secure and efficient charging performance.

Eversolo launched the 'Control' app for Android TV, compatible with the DMP-Ax series and Play devices, enhancing user experience.
Using a Google Chromecast TV 4K, the app auto-discovers the connected device and displays song details and album art centrally.
It supports Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, and Roon, ensuring high-quality music playback with precise sample rate display.

Apple Spatial Audio Format (ASAF) redefines immersive sound with dynamic, adaptive environments and real-time spatial adjustments.
Powered by Apple Positional Codec (APAC), it pairs high-fidelity Linear PCM audio with advanced spatial metadata.
Seamlessly integrates with Apple’s ecosystem, excelling on visionOS and the Vision Pro headset for AR/VR synergy.

Audio passthrough on Apple TV 4K delivers raw, untouched audio streams to external devices, preserving high-quality sound for advanced setups.
Supports high-resolution formats like DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD, catering to audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts.
Streaming apps must enable passthrough support to unlock full potential, with Plex and Infuse likely leading adoption.

A leaked Powerbeats Pro 2 prototype features a striking transparent design, providing a rare view of internal engineering and components.
Built around Apple’s H2 chip, it offers ANC, transparency mode, and a unique heart rate monitoring feature, catering to fitness-focused users.
Transparent casing highlights adaptive EQ and spatial audio technology, reflecting Apple’s effort to combine advanced audio tech with compact design.

A software hint referring to “Apple AirPods Pro 2 or later” has sparked speculation about the potential release of AirPods Pro 3.
Expected upgrades include improved active noise cancellation (ANC), battery performance, enhanced spatial audio through new sensors, and upgraded drivers.
The ambiguous phrasing also opens the possibility of other models, like AirPods 4, being in development.

PowerBeats Pro 2 rumored to launch on **February 11** with a price of **$250**.
Equipped with the **Apple H2 chip**, offering better connectivity and lower latency.
Heart rate monitoring** may debut, integrating health tracking into headphones.

Apple plans to launch HomePod Mini 2 and HomePod with Display by December 2025.
HomePod Mini 2 to feature improved audio, connectivity upgrades, and new color options.
HomePod with Display will include a 7-inch LCD screen and A18 Pro processor, focusing on cost-efficient smart home integration.

AirPods Max firmware update introduces 24-bit/48kHz lossless audio via USB-C cable with built-in DAC.
Ultra-low latency improves audio-video sync, enhancing gaming and video experiences.
Personalized Spatial Audio integrates with professional workflows like Logic Pro for high-fidelity production.

Apple AirPods to feature real-time translation with iOS 19, enabling seamless multilingual conversations.
Bidirectional translations ensure natural dialogue by converting speech in both directions.
Integration leverages Apple's ecosystem for enhanced accuracy and reliability, distinguishing it from competitors.

Powerbeats Pro 2 features high-quality sound, a heart rate sensor, and Apple's latest audio chips, targeting athletes.
Limitations include inability to simultaneously use heart rate monitoring and music playback due to single Bluetooth connection.
iPhone users face app compatibility issues, with no direct support for Apple Fitness, unlike smoother integration on Android.

Billie Eilish named Apple Music's Artist of the Year 2024, becoming the first to win twice (2019 & 2024).
Achieved major milestones: second Oscar win, two Grammys for "Barbie" soundtrack, and seven Grammy nominations this year.
Third album, "HIT ME HARD AND SOFT," topped charts in 138 countries.

Nestled within a carefully arranged space, this home theater setup strikes a remarkable balance between aesthetic elegance and auditory excellence. Central to the experience is a state-of-the-art flat

AirPods Pro 3 Expected Release**: Apple plans to launch AirPods Pro 3 in Fall, coinciding with the iPhone 17 release.
Innovative Heart Rate Monitoring**: These earbuds will feature a sensor for heart rate monitoring, similar to Powerbeats Pro 2 technology.
Enhanced Noise Cancellation**: Equipped with the latest Apple H3 chip, ensuring superior audio clarity and richer sound.

Apple's latest patent reveals plans for AirPods with a charging case featuring a touchscreen and camera, enabling unique functionalities like taking selfies directly from the case.*
The case could serve as an audio hub, connecting to devices such as vinyl players or in-flight entertainment systems, and wirelessly transmitting audio to the AirPods.*
Additional features include multi-source audio control, allowing users to adjust the volume of multiple audio streams independently via the case's touchscreen.*

Apple's AirPods maintain dominance in the Bluetooth headphone market, with 59% of iPhone users choosing them, reflecting a 2% annual growth.
Despite such popularity, only 25% of iPhone users actively use AirPods, indicating a significant potential for market expansion.
Market growth appears stagnant, with periodic retailer discounts on AirPods aimed at stimulating demand or clearing inventory for new models.
The Focal Bathys MG headphones feature magnesium drivers, achieving audiophile-grade sound quality in wireless active noise-canceling headphones.
Bowers & Wilkins' Px7 S2e and Px8 models stand out for their luxurious design and warm, detailed soundstage performance.
Sony's WH-1000XM6 and WF-1000XM5 models offer advanced noise cancellation, dynamic sound tuning, and improved ergonomic designs.
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