Powerbeats Pro 2: Apple's Latest Earbuds with Built-in Heart Rate Monitoring

Apple's Beats brand has introduced the Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds, boasting the first built-in heart rate monitoring sensors in wireless earbuds. Priced at $249, the earbuds offer enhanced audio capabilities, extended battery life, and numerous upgrades inspired by Apple's AirPods line. Key features include:

Heart Rate Monitoring:
The Powerbeats Pro 2's standout feature is its built-in heart rate sensors. Utilizing LED optical sensors, the earbuds measure heart rate 100 times per second, transmitting data to fitness apps such as Open, Peloton, Runna, Slopes, Ladder, Nike Run Club, and YaoYao. Apple Fitness+ compatibility is not available at launch, but users can monitor their heart rate through the Apple Health app.

Physical Touch Controls:
The Powerbeats Pro 2 features intuitive physical touch controls for seamless navigation.

Active Noise Canceling and Transparency Listening:
Active noise canceling blocks external noise, providing an immersive listening experience in noisy environments. Transparency mode enhances ambient noise, allowing users to stay aware of their surroundings while listening to music.

Upgraded Battery Life:
With active noise canceling disabled, the earbuds provide up to 10 hours of listening time. The charging case extends the total listening time to 45 hours.

Compatibility:
As part of the Beats brand, the Powerbeats Pro 2 is compatible with Android phones, offering similar functionality in listening modes and heart rate monitoring. However, iPhone users benefit from exclusive features such as Personalized Spatial Audio, Siri access, and lossless audio.

Other Upgrades:
The Powerbeats Pro 2 has been redesigned to be 20% lighter than its predecessors. It also features sweat and water resistance.