Apple's Beats Debuts Powerbeats Pro 2 Earbuds with Heart Rate Monitoring
Apple's (AAPL) subsidiary Beats launched the Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds on Tuesday, the first Beats product to feature built-in heart rate tracking sensors.
Key Features:
* Heart rate monitoring via LED optical sensors
* Improved audio quality and battery life
* Active noise cancellation and transparency modes
* Physical touch controls
* Sweat- and water-resistant
* Compatible with Android and iOS devices
Heart Rate Monitoring:
The Powerbeats Pro 2's heart rate sensors, a first for Beats earbuds, use optical LED technology to measure heart rate and transmit data to fitness apps. Apple designed custom algorithms and miniaturized technology from the Apple Watch to fit these sensors into the earbuds.
Enhanced Audio and Battery:
The earbuds offer improved audio capabilities and extended battery life of up to 10 hours without active noise cancellation activated. The charging case provides up to 45 hours of additional listening time.
Target Market:
The Powerbeats Pro 2 will bolster Apple's wearables segment, which saw a decline in revenue in its recent quarter. The company aims to provide customers with a convenient way to track heart rate during workouts without the need for a smartwatch or chest strap.
Android Compatibility:
While the Powerbeats Pro 2 falls under the Beats brand, it seamlessly integrates with Android phones, offering the same functionality as on iOS devices. Android users may not access certain Apple-exclusive features like Personalized Spatial Audio and lossless audio.
Availability:
The Powerbeats Pro 2 will be available on store shelves from February 13th for $249.