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It's all eyes on Berlin for the next few days as tech brands debut their latest, fanciest, and most AI-laden gadgets at IFA 2025. Similar to what we see at CES in Las Vegas, some products are awesome, some are totally creepy, and others leave us wondering who would ever need such a thing. Tons of big hitters are in attendance for IFA 2025 like Samsung, Anker, Acer, Hisense, LG, and hundreds more.

The show runs through Sept. 9, so check back as we continue to update this page with the best IFA 2025 products. Below are standouts from the show as we head into the weekend.

The Eufy MarsWalker is coming for your stairs

Tech shows are no strangers to robot vacuum innovations, and IFA 2025 is following suit. Your multi-story home will love the Eufy MarsWalker. To specify, the MarsWalker refers to the transport that'll take the Eufy RoboVac Omni S2 up and down the stairs.

The Eufy MarsWalker is ready to tackle your stairs. Credit: Eufy

The RoboVac drives itself into the MarsWalker, nestling in for a safe journey up the stairs to continue on its mission of cleaning up crumbs. This is in contrast to the Dreame X50 Ultra, which is basically really good at getting over major two-inch thresholds but can't actually climb stairs, while the MarsWalker glides over them. Plus, it's capable of ascending and descending straight, L-shaped, and U-shaped staircases.

Color us impressed considering it wasn't all that long ago that robot vacuums tumbled down the stairs and left themselves lifelessly upside-down. Eufy hasn't released official launch dates yet, but says we can expect the Eufy RobotVac Omni S2 in January of 2026 with a price tag of $1,599 and the MarsWalker to follow in spring of 2026 with no pricing as of yet.

Soundcore's Nebula X1 Pro is a one-stop entertainment system

Anker makes tons of projectors under the Nebula brand name, which has now joined the brand's Soundcore umbrella. In testing, I loved the super portable Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser mini projector, and it came with me to Japan, fitting neatly into my 15-pound backpack. At IFA 2025, Anker introduced the incredibly not-portable Nebula X1 Pro projector, which is so massive, it comes on wheels.

The wheel-y big Nebula X1 Pro Credit: Souncore

To call this a projector is a bit of an undersell since it comes packed with other features and Soundcore mentions it’s a “mobile theater station.” As a projector, the Nebula X1 Pro gives off a 4K display with 3,500 ANSI lumens. By comparison, the portable Nebula Capsule that I love maxes out at 300 lumens.

Projectors are notorious for coming with terrible onboard speakers, but the Nebula X1 Pro aims to break that stereotype by incorporating Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision. To give off the surround-sound vibe, Soundcore uses a 7.1.4 speaker layout which equates to seven surround channels, one subwoofer, and four overhead height channels.

There’s no onboard battery on the X1 Pro, and instead, you’ll need to plug it in via the 6.6-foot retractable power cable. Given that the top of the projector’s housing opens with storage space for two microphones, the Nebula X1 Pro could be the ultimate party system, serving as a projector, speaker, and karaoke machine. 

Soundcore will launch the Nebula X1 Pro on Kickstarter on Sept. 23, and says it’ll cost somewhere between $4,000 and $5,000. However, you can snag a massive discount before Sept. 9 by placing a preorder deposit. Head to the Nebua X1 Pro’s product page, navigate to the upper right, and hit “claim your offer now.” A $100 deposit earns you a spot in the first-tier early bird section, getting the projector for a total of $2,499 once it goes live on Kickstarter. Soundcore says the first deliveries of the Nebula X1 Pro are slated for November with priority shipping. With any luck, the projector will arrive before holiday parties in December.

The Samsung Sound Tower wants a party invitation

Party speakers are having a spotlight moment, and we're all invited. The JBL Party Box 520 was a star at a Mashable wedding over the summer and brands are taking note of their popularity. At IFA 2025, Samsung literally packed the party by introducing the Sound Tower ST50F and Sound Tower ST40F.

Roll up to the party with portable tunes. Credit: Samsung

Indoor or outdoor parties are in for a treat with either of the new Samsung Sound Towers. The ST50F comes with 25mm dual dome tweeters, dual 6.5-inch woofers, and a battery that can last for up to 18 hours. It's a big one, so it's equipped with a telescopic handle, wheels, and an IPX4 water resistance rating. The smaller Sound Tower ST40F gets up to 12 hours of battery life with 5.25-inch dual woofers and 20mm dual dome tweeters.

With the Samsung Sound Tower App, partiers can set the LED lights to sync with the music's rhythm. The app also has customizable mood lighting that sets off various effects, movements, and color schemes, according to Samsung.

Both models are on the books to come out later in September, and the Sound Tower ST50F will come with a price of $699.99, while the smaller Sound Tower ST40F comes in at $499.99.

Make an at-home art studio with the EufyMake E1 UV Printer

Who needs a 3D printer when you can get a UV printer? The EufyMake E1 UV Printer allows you to print on nearly anything, and you can do so with 3D texture. Stick your face on every mug in your home, make your own art pieces, gift everyone personalized stickers for Christmas 2025, and never wear a bland, blank T-shirt ever again. You could even launch your own Etsy shop. These are just a few ideas you can create with the EufyMake E1 UV Printer, which is set to debut for customers in December 2025, but Eufy mentions preorders could begin shipping as early as October.

Lets your artistic side shine with the EufyMake E1 UV Printer. Credit: Eufy

You can already preorder the EufyMake E1 UV Printer, and all bundles are at least $200 off. The basic bundle is listed at $2,499, but you can preorder it for $2,299 with promo code WS24e1basicbundle.

Opens in a new window Credit: Eufy EufyMake UV Printer E1 (basic bundle) $2,299 at Eufy
$2,499 Save $200 Get Deal Bluetti's sodium-powered Pioneer Na portable power station

Portable power stations are truly some of the best innovations we've seen in years, revolutionizing the camping experience as well as offering a way to stay on-grid during a power outage. Bluetti has been a leader in the industry, and the brand will debut the Pioneer Na at IFA 2025 on Sept. 6. Instead of the industry-standard lithium-ion phosphate battery (which we often see as LiFePO4), the Pioneer Na will use a sodium-ion battery, and that means it'll be ready to go in low temperatures.

Chainsawin' in negative temperatures is on the agenda for winter 2026. Credit: Bluetti

That could be awesome if you live in a cold climate that gets coated in snow, ice, and negative temperatures in a winter that lasts for seemingly half of the year. The Pioneer Na portable power station comes with 900Wh of battery capacity with 1,500W of continuous power. We're waiting on word from Bluetti about pricing, but the brand has said it'll be available for purchase in mid-October.

Become the star of the neighborhood with the Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights Prism

Govee seriously showed up prepared to wow at IFA 2025. The brand debuted several new smart lighting options, and a highlight is the new Prism model of the permanent outdoor lights. They'll come with a triple-color lighting effect for a more dynamic display. Govee mentions the adjustable brightness ranges from 6500K to 2700K, so there are options for super bright displays to chill, warm lighting. The Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights Prism come with the brand's LuminBlend color management system, giving users the option to choose from an astonishing 16 million color options.

Celebrate every holiday with permanent outdoor lights. Credit: Govee

The lights are designed to never come down, working in a temperature range between -30 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Govee says they'll get 50,000 hours of life, which equates to 4,166 days, should you have the lights on for 12 hours each day.

Govee has the Permanent Outdoor Lights Prism listed with a release date of Sept. 22 for an undisclosed price. They'll also land at Amazon on launch day.

The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro that rivals the Apple Watch Ultra 3

Garmin is coming in hot with a new flagship smartwatch — the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro. It's a total coincidence that it goes on sale on Sept. 8, just one day before we anticipate the announcement of the Apple Watch Ultra 3 at the brand's annual launch event.

Use satellite and LTE networks to stay in touch. Credit: Garmin

Garmin has designed the Fenix 8 Pro for serious athletes. Not only does it come with the standard 24/7 fitness tracking, it has an LED flashlight, a mix of satellite and cellular connectivity, and the ability to send a signal to Garmin’s Response Center should you require help. It can also get up to 15 days of battery life and you can leave family with the ability to follow your location thanks to Garmin's Livetrack location sharing technology.

The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro comes in two versions — an AMOLED display and an upgraded micoLED. The AMOLED is available in a 47mm and 51mm size with prices starting at $1,199.99. The microLED is available in just the 51mm size with a price of $1,999.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Garmin Fenix 8 Pro (47mm, AMOLED) $1,199.99 at Garmin
Learn More Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Garmin Fenix Pro 8 (51mm, microLED) $1,999.99 at Garmin
Learn More The Acemate Robot is an always-available tennis mate

Sometimes AI is atrocious, but other times, it's pretty rad. Tennis players who struggle to find friends with a similar schedule can now play with the rally-master Acemate Robot. The Acemate rolls around the court, catching balls in its hopper and then serving balls back at up to 80 miles per hour and eight meters high. Combined, this allows for a single-player tennis practice that mimics what it'd be like with a fellow player.

The Acemate won't judge your weird backhand technique. Credit: Acemate

Since the Acemate is using cameras to catch and serve balls back, it's also capturing swing techniques, accuracy, and more. After your tennis lesson is over, you can review footage and stats like ball speed, spin, and landing points. The Acemate is already in production after a successful Kickstarter campaign, and units should begin shipping in November. Preorders get a major $900 discount. There's also a pickleball version if tennis isn't your thing.

Opens in a new window Credit: Acemate Acemate tennis robot $1,599 at Acemate
$2,499 Save $900 Get Deal Acer's first Chromebook with an NPU — the Acer Plus Spin 514

Acer's first go at a Chromebook with NPU means it packs in the AI features. Mashable Senior Shopping Reporter Haley Henschel spent some time with the new Acer Plus Spin 514 and wrote, "Based on my few hours with the Spin 514 so far, I think it's a great pick for early AI adopters, but also just anyone who wants a solid budget 2-in-1 laptop with a premium design and good amount of power for the price."

A nice budget option, with the addition of fancy AI features. Credit: Haley Henschel

Sure, it has tons of AI features, but Henschel noted it's simply a nice budget 2-in-1 laptop that could work great for a wide range of laptop users. The price points land on the higher end for a Chromebook, but it comes with a premium feel, according to Henschel. It can also move into a tent mode or lie flat in tablet mode. While we haven't tested the battery life yet, Acer's press release says it can get up to 17 hours of web browsing on a single charge, which would put it well above the minimum Mashable likes to see in Chromebooks.

Opens in a new window Credit: Acer Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 (CP514-1HN-K6DY) $699.99 at Best Buy
Get Deal

SAVE 35%: As of Sept. 5, you can get the Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee Maker and Espresso Machine by DeLonghi for $129.99, down from $199.99, at Target. That's a 35% discount and a $70 savings.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nespresso Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee Maker and Espresso Machine by DeLonghi $129.99 at Target
$199.99 Save $70 Get Deal

I love Target just as much as the next iced coffee toting shopper, but I have to admit that finding a genuinely good deal there can be a challenge. They do offer small gift card incentives when you spend a certain amount on specific items, but true price drops that rival Amazon or Walmart are few and far between.

SEE ALSO: Target is ending its price match policy as of July 28

That’s why I was so shocked to find this deal. As of Sept. 5, you can get the Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee Maker and Espresso Machine by DeLonghi for $129.99, down from $199.99, at Target. That's a 35% discount and a $70 savings. You can’t find it for this price anywhere else, including Amazon. Plus, you’ll get a free starter set of Nespresso capsules with your purchase.

This particular machine can brew both coffee and espresso, a feature not all Nespresso machines offer. You can brew coffee in five- and eight-ounce sizes, as well as single and double espresso shots. It's also fast (heats up in 15 seconds) and has a huge 60-ounce water tank so you're not constantly refilling it.

The most impressive feature of this Nespresso VertuoPlus machine is its barcode scanning technology, which automatically adjusts brewing parameters for each capsule, ensuring you get the perfect cup every time. (Pop in the pod, press the button, and the machine does the rest.) The pods are also fully recyclable; you can order a (free) recycling bag directly from Nespresso and mail them back at no charge.

FX's Alien: Earth episode 5 functions as its own Alien movie, shedding light on the final, terrible day aboard the USCSS Maginot before it crash-landed on Earth in the very first episode. It's an episode that provides a slew of WTF moments and one hell of a brilliant performance by Babou Ceesay as the relentless investigator and head of security, Morrow, in a full-on Poirot mystery-solving moment.

"I love the description that you gave, because that's exactly how I felt, although I'd go for Columbo more, I'm a Columbo person myself," Ceesay told Mashable.

Both in production style and narrative, the episode feels like a one-hour film worthy of the Alien canon, and one that provides a clever pacing shift from the series linear storyline. Creator/writer/director Noah Hawley sends us flying down the halls of the ill-fated Weyland-Yutani ship — in fact, the team procured the blueprints of the Nostromo, the ship from Ridley Scott's 1979 original, to build it.

SEE ALSO: 'Alien: Earth' episode 5's twisty ending, explained

Mashable sat down with Hawley, Ceesay, and executive producer David W. Zucker to unpack the episode, which crafts a mystery around the members of the Maginot's doomed crew.

"Some of it was the unanswered question of what happened on the ship that made it crash. We kind of cliffhanger this moment in episode 4," Hawley told Mashable. "But some of it is just, selfishly, I wanted to make an Alien movie, and that's why I directed it."

"The beauty of this moment is that there's a seamless fluidity to the season," added Zucker. "There's a lot in [episode 5] that really shouldn't work. You shouldn't be able to stop the story in the way that [Hawley] does. And yet, in some ways, it brings a different kind of thrill to the narrative experience, because you are getting so much information that you were exposed to from that initial prologue, and you would never anticipate that you'd then dive headlong entirely in this and meet a whole new crew."

This whole new crew is one of the best elements of the episode, characters we thought were a flash in the pan in their doomed episode 1 appearance: Maginot Captain Dinsdale (Tanapol Chuksrida), new Captain Zaveri (Richa Moorjani), science officer Chibuzo (Karen Aldridge), crew members Bronski (Max Rinehart), Clem (Tom Moya), Teng (Andy Yu), Sullivan (Victoria Masoma), and engineers Shmuel (Michael Smiley) and Malachite (Jamie Bisping).

"Look, it's incredible to even have the opportunity to be on the ship for that whole time," Ceesay told Mashable. "And of course, a whole new cast of characters appeared who are just phenomenal."

Now, remember, if you're watching Alien: Earth episode 5, don't eat or drink.

From Rayquaza’s sky-high spike to Mewtwo’s steady plateau, the X & Y Mega Era is buzzing with collector interest as fans gear up for Pokémon Legends: Z-A and the official Mega Evolution comeback.

The spotlight is swinging back to Mega Evolution Pokémon as hype builds for the upcoming New Mega Evolutions and Phantasmal Flames expansions. Collectors are not waiting around for fresh stock. They are scooping up X & Y era chase cards while they can, and prices are reflecting that rush with several iconic Megas doubling or even tripling since the start of the year.

SEE ALSO: Where to buy Pokémon cards in 2025 — avoid overpaying or missing out on new sets

The biggest story is the nostalgia-fueled spikes on cards like M Rayquaza EX Shiny Full Art and M Gengar EX Secret Rare, which have soared past their January 2025 lows as collectors scramble to lock them in before prices climb further. On the other hand, many other Megas are flattening out, signaling a short-term plateau that makes them attractive entry points before demand explodes.

With some values stabilizing and others skyrocketing, now looks like the sweet spot for collectors to secure these historic cards before the Mega Evolution era returns in full force.

Pokémon card bumps Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

M Rayquaza EX Shiny Full Art from Ancient Origins is the undisputed king of the Mega market right now. Its current price sits around $1,450 compared to just $275.15 in January. This card is not only one of the most iconic Megas, but also one of the hardest pulls of the era. Collectors are piling in, and prices have leapt more than fourfold since the start of the year. The surge in Rayquaza has created a ripple effect, with collectors broadening their search to other standout Megas as well.

M Gengar EX Secret Rare from Phantom Forces has followed a similar path. Currently selling for over $400 against a January price of just under $100, it has tripled in value this year. Phantom Gate’s copycat potential was always fun in play, but this card’s real power is in its artwork and rarity. Secret Rare status combined with Gengar’s massive fanbase has pushed it into the spotlight, reinforcing how certain Pokémon with lasting popularity translate directly into collector demand.

• M Rayquaza EX (Shiny Full Art)
  Current price: $1,450
  Market Price: $538.54
  Price in January 2025: $275.15

• M Gengar EX (Secret Rare)
  Current price: $415
  Market Price: $376.08
  Price in January 2025: $90.81

• M Rayquaza EX (Full Art)
  Current price: $656.99
  Market Price: $279.64
  Price in January 2025: $164.04

• M Charizard EX (X)
  Current price: $349.99
  Market Price: $277.94
  Price in January 2025: $126.89

• Primal Groudon EX (Shiny Full Art)
  Current price: $349.99
  Market Price: $277.94
  Price in January 2025: $126.89

M Rayquaza EX Full Art from Roaring Skies has also climbed sharply, moving from around $160 at the start of the year to more than $650 today. The alternate artwork version is riding the same collector wave as the shiny, with nostalgia and scarcity making it one of the safest Mega buys right now.

Meanwhile, M Charizard EX X from Flashfire has jumped from about $125 in January to around $350 today. Flashfire has always been notorious for Charizard collectors, and the Mega X version is seeing renewed demand. Wild Blaze might be reckless in play, but collectors care more about the artwork and rarity that drive its climb. Together, Rayquaza, Gengar, and Charizard are setting the pace for the Mega market in 2025.

Pokémon card cuts Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

Not all Megas are keeping pace with these heavy hitters. Primal Groudon EX Shiny Full Art from Ancient Origins, while up from its January level, has started to plateau compared to the true megastars of the format. Collector demand is there, but it is lagging behind the explosive gains of Rayquaza and Gengar. Similarly, Primal Groudon EX Omega Full Art from Primal Clash has held steady this year. The card once had competitive relevance thanks to Omega Barrier, but it is not commanding must-have status among collectors in the same way that Rayquaza or Charizard variants are.

M Mewtwo EX Full Art from BREAKthrough tells a similar story. It has seen a significant rise from earlier in the year, but its pace has slowed compared to the top performers. Psychic Infinity remains a fan-favorite attack, but with so many Mewtwo variants available, demand is spread thin.

• Primal Groudon EX (Omega Full Art)
  Current price: $254.93
  Market Price: $179.19
  Price in January 2025: $90.60

• M Mewtwo EX (Full Art)
  Current price: $145.04
  Market Price: $152.86
  Price in January 2025: $37.21

• M Alakazam EX (Full Art)
  Current price: $99.97
  Market Price: $91.10
  Price in January 2025: $28.85

• M Charizard EX
  Current price: $196
  Market Price: $149.04
  Price in January 2025: $64.66

• M Charizard EX (Full Art)
  Current price: $247.99
  Market Price: $146.34
  Price in January 2025: $71.23

M Alakazam EX Full Art from Fates Collide is in the same boat. It has climbed steadily but without the same explosive momentum, making it more of a sleeper buy for collectors who want to secure it before hype catches up. These psychic types remain iconic but are overshadowed by the flashier Rayquaza and Charizard.

Even the iconic M Charizard cards from Generations and Evolutions have shown restraint compared to Rayquaza. Both are trading higher than they were at the beginning of the year, but their climb has been steady rather than meteoric. With so many Charizard variants on the market, some collectors are holding off. Charizard fatigue might be at play here, keeping prices in check. For long-term collectors, this stability may actually be an opportunity to pick up a Charizard without competing against the runaway hype.

Want to pull one of these cards yourself? Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

Sealed product from the X & Y era has been drying up fast, and Mega Evolution nostalgia is only making it scarcer. Phantom Forces and Roaring Skies booster boxes are especially hot, with prices often topping $2,000 when available. Ancient Origins and Primal Clash boxes are harder to find, pushing Elite Trainer Boxes and tins into collector crosshairs. For buyers, the singles market looks like the smarter entry point right now. Sealed is commanding a heavy premium, while many Megas are plateauing, making them cheaper to pick up before the new Mega Evolution expansions reignite demand.

SAVE $109.96: As of Sept. 5, get the JBL PartyBox On-The-Go for $269.99, saving 29%. That saves you $109.96 off its $379.95 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL PartyBox On-The-Go $269.99 at Amazon
$379.95 Save $109.96 Get Deal

JBL speakers are some of our favorite. Their Bluetooth speakers are great for everyday use, playing tunes while you work, cook, and unwind. And for bigger events, when you need a speaker that brings the party, JBL's PartyBox speakers are made for the occasion. We're big fans of JBL's PartyBox line-up — I even used one for my wedding. So if you're looking to upgrade your speaker game, we have a deal for you.

As of Sept. 5, the JBL PartyBox On-The-Go is down to $269.99. That's 29% down from its $379.95, saving you $109.96.

The JBL PartyBox On-The-Go is the smallest and most portable of the PartyBox collection. It comes with a crossbody strap and at 13-pounds isn't too big of a lift, especially compared to the PartyBox 520's 56-pounds. It comes with a built-in light to add a little ambiance, plus the mic makes it a perfect karaoke machine. It has an IPX4 splashproof rating so you can bring it to the beach or poolside. A 5.25-inch woofer and 1.75-inch tweeters keeps the music booming and a 6-hour battery life will keep the party going all night long.

Get the JBL PartyBox On-The-Go for just $269.99 at Amazon and save $109.96.

SAVE 58%: As of Sept. 5, you can get the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 AI for $74.99, down from $179.99, at Woot. That's a 58% discount and a $105 savings.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 AI $74.99 at Woot
$179.99 Save $105.00 Get Deal

Looking for a new pair of buds that won’t plug up your ear canal? The Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 AI are currently on sale at Woot (Amazon’s deal site), and the deal is honestly wild.

As of Sept. 5, you can get the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 AI for just $74.99, down from $179.99. That’s a 58% discount and a $105 savings. This is a new all-time low price and a ridiculously good discount — you won’t be able to find them for this price anywhere else, not even on Amazon.

SEE ALSO: The Samsung Galaxy Buds FE wowed me, even as a lifelong Apple user

These buds feature a Live Translate function that provides real-time translation of calls and face-to-face conversations. The AI also powers an Adaptive Equalizer, which automatically tunes the sound to how the buds are sitting in your ear. With an “open-type” fit and active noise cancellation, these buds are a steal at this price.

In addition to its AI features, you’ll get 360 Audio for a more cinematic feel and improved call quality (thanks to its Super Wide Band Speech feature, so you'll sound clearer to the person on the other end). As for controls, you can program the touch sensors to do what you want (pause, skip, etc.). Just keep in mind that this is a Woot flash deal. That means the clock is ticking, and it's only available for a limited time (15 hours as of writing) or until it sells out.

Among the many things that Apple is likely announcing (and not announcing) at its “Awe Dropping” event on Sept. 9, the iPhone 17 is definitely going to take center stage. However, it’s not the only new Apple product making its debut. Among the products we expect to see, the AirPods Pro 3 will certainly be one of the biggest. 

It should come as no surprise. The excellent AirPods Pro 2 sported an already aging design when they were released in fall 2022, but still sounded great and had a lot of good features. That means Apple has spent three years (at least) developing the AirPods Pro 3, and according to rumors, it’s looking to be quite a refresh.

So, let’s not bury the lede too far. This is what the AirPods Pro 3 might look like when they launch next week. 

SEE ALSO: Apple AirPods Pro with USB-C review: About time

Remember: the information below is still in the rumor phase, and some features may not be available at launch.

A new design and smaller case

When we reviewed the AirPods Pro 2, we noted that the new Apple earbuds sounded great, but that the design was already starting to look tired. That shouldn’t be a problem for the AirPods Pro 3. Rumors have been swirling that the AirPods Pro 3 is getting a new design for quite some time, and with the AirPods 4 getting its own design refresh last year, it seems change is on the horizon for the Pro versions, too. 

The exact design changes that are rumored remain a mystery. However, Apple is expected to bring the AirPods Pro 3 into spec with its other products in terms of design. That includes a smaller case, removing the pairing button, a status light that disappears seamlessly into the body, and a new earbud design that’ll help prevent it from falling out. Those are just rumors, of course, and we don’t know what Apple plans to do. 

The new H3 chip, better noise cancellation, and better sound quality

The AirPods Pro 2 currently sports the H2 chip, which was also added to the AirPods 4 last year. Per Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, the AirPods Pro 3 will debut Apple’s next-generation H3 chip. This would be a pretty big deal since the H3 is rumored to be quite a chip. It should sport faster connectivity, potentially better battery life, and improvements to Apple’s Transparency mode. 

A new chip should also mean improved active noise cancellation. The AirPods Pro 2 are no slouches compared to the best noise-cancelling earbuds, but given how much better noise cancellation was in the Pro 2 versus the original, we’re excited to see how much improvement the Pro 3 provides. Another benefit to the upgraded spec sheet is that it should improve overall sound quality as well, although to what extent is impossible to guess without actually listening to them.

In short, the H3 chip promises to bring a lot of secondary improvements, and we’re here for it. 

Heart rate monitoring

Apple has already started putting heart rate monitoring into earbuds with Beats Powerbeats Pro 2, so it stands to reason that the feature would also work its way into a pair of AirPods eventually. The AirPods Pro 3 are rumored to be the first such product in Apple’s lineup. The concept is simple. You wear the AirPads Pro 3 during workouts, and it tracks your heart rate. 

Rumors about heart rate monitoring in the AirPods Pro 3 date back to December 2024 at least. Its various limitations and features are still a mystery, and will remain that way until launch, unless a new leak happens. For the most part, pundits believe that it’ll be similar to the feature in the Powerbeats Pro 2.

Temperature monitoring

The other health sensor rumored to be heading to the AirPods Pro 3? Temperature monitoring. Like heart rate monitoring, this feature already exists in the Apple Watch. However, it’s fairly well established that taking the temperature from the ear is more accurate than from the wrist, so this feature should work better in a pair of AirPods than an Apple Watch. 

Little is known about temperature monitoring in the AirPods Pro 3 at this time. It was mentioned alongside the heart rate monitoring in the rumors, but its functionality is otherwise unknown. This is likely because the Powerbeats Pro 2 came with heart rate monitoring, giving people a glimpse into the tech beforehand, whereas the temperature sensor has yet to show up in wireless earbuds from Apple yet. 

Live Translation

Live translation has been a thing since iOS 26 was debuted at WWDC earlier this year. This AI feature would work the same as it does on competitor earbuds like the Pixel Buds and Galaxy Buds from Google and Samsung, respectively. The user’s iPhone would listen to the other person speaking, translate it, and play the translation in the earbuds. This process would then reverse, with the iPhone playing your translation to the other person. 

Whether or not this one appears at launch is unknown. Per rumors, the AirPods Pro 3 will get the feature, but it may not be ready by Sept. 9, so it may be added in a future update. We’ll know for sure next week.

More to love

With all of the upgrades coming, the AirPods Pro 3 should be a pretty big jump from the aging AirPods Pro 2. The new internals promise improved features, and a new design will freshen things up considerably. Tack on the health stuff, and these should be a fairly robust pair of earbuds that’ll compete for years to come.

SAVE $70: As of Sept. 5, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are on sale for $379 at Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, and Bose. That's a little over 15% off their list price of $449.

Save on the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones: Buy at Amazon Bose QuietComfort Ultra $379 (save $70) Get Deal Buy at Best Buy Bose QuietComfort Ultra $379 (save $70) Get Deal Buy at Walmart Bose QuietComfort Ultra $379 (save $70) Get Deal Buy at Bose Bose QuietComfort Ultra $379 (save $70) Get Deal

The second-generation QuietComfort Ultras — Bose's follow-up to the legendary noise-cancelling headphones —  are officially up for pre-order. In the tech world, that can only mean one thing: a price drop on the former generation.

As of Sept. 5, you can pick up the first-generation Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones for just $379 instead of the current list price of $449 (the price to pre-order the Gen 2s) across most retailers — including Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Bose. While that's not the lowest price on record for these headphones, that's still 15% in savings and the lowest price we've seen in a few months. Each retailer has different color options in stock, so be sure to shop around if you have a specific color in mind.

The QuietComfort Ultras are the most comfortable headphones on the market for most folks. Mashable's shopping reporters Bethany Allard and Sam Mangino both tested them and noted that they can easily be worn all day without earaches, even if you're rocking glasses and jewelry. The battery life accompanies that all day comfort as well. Even with noise cancellation turned on, the QuietComfort Ultras last from 18 to 24 hours per charge.

These headphones also offer good (not great) noise cancellation, excellent sound quality, foldable earcups, and plenty of color options. The second-generation keeps the same basic design, but adds wired lossless playback, reliable detection, and an even longer lasting battery life. If those things are uber important to you, go ahead and pre-order the new ones. If you're a more casual listener looking for noise-cancelling headphones you can truly wear all day long, save yourself 15% and grab the first-generation Bose QuietComfort Ultras while they're on sale.

SAVE $100: As of Sept. 5, get the Motorola Razr (2025) for $599.99, down from its usual price of $699.99. That's a discount of 14%. It's also the lowest price we've seen.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Motorola Razr (2025) $599.99 at Amazon
$699.99 Save $100 Get Deal

A new smartphone is always a fun way to kick off your own personal tech glow-up. Foldables are particularly fun, but they can be a bit pricey if you're on a budget. Luckily, there's a way to experience the fun of slamming your phone shut when angry, or just the retro joy of having a phone that folds closed once more thanks to this Amazon deal.

As of Sept. 5, get the Motorola Razr (2025) for $599.99, down from its usual price of $699.99. That's $100 off and a discount of 14%. It's also the lowest price we've seen.

SEE ALSO: The 5 best smartphones of 2025 so far

This smartphone is officially a Mashable Favorite model, one of our favorites on the market and proof that Motorola has finally figured out today's flip phone. It boasts a 3.6-inch external display when closed and a 6.9-inch ultrawide screen when open. With a 50MP camera array, battery life that lasts over a full day on a 4500mAh battery and 30W TurboPower charging, it's made to be your constant companion.

Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7400X processor, this phone is also capable of moto ai interactions for personalized assistance, multitasking, and more. You can do much of these things without even having to flip it open as well, which means you can look at apps or even messages from the front display.

"The new Motorola Razr is one of the biggest surprises of 2025 in the mobile world," says Mashable Tech Editor Timothy Beck Werth of this iteration. "This phone series has had a lot of problems, but the 2025 models solved them. I've been testing the flagship version, and it's one of my favorite phones of the year so far. If you're looking for a foldable that won't set you back $2,000, this is my top recommendation."

Don't miss out on this deal if you're ready to see what the new Razr can do for you for less.

SAVE YOUR SPOT: As of Sept. 3, preorders are opening for the first expansion of the new Pokémon TCG set, Mega Evolution: Phantasmal Flames, which drops Nov. 14 with Elite Trainer Boxes, a booster box, booster bundle, and an Ultra-Premium Collection.

Phantasmal Flames is the newest mainline English Pokémon TCG set, releasing on Nov. 14, 2025. The set is led by Mega Charizard X ex and brings back Mega Evolution for a second time this block.

Noteworthy Phantasmal Flames cards

With just around 90 main-set cards before secret rares, this is the smallest English set in nearly a decade. Once secret rares are factored in, the total rises to around 130 cards — still more compact than most recent expansions. That makes this a collector-friendly release while still delivering plenty for competitive players.

• Five Special Illustration Rare Mega Evolution Pokémon ex and Supporter cards

• Six Mega Evolution Pokémon ex

• Four Pokémon ex

• 12 Illustration Rare Pokémon

• 17 Ultra rare Mega Evolution Pokémon ex, Trainer and Energy Cards

Product lineup

Here’s what you can expect on launch day:

• Booster Box — 36 packs, MSRP around $129.99

• Booster Packs — MSRP $4.49 each

• Booster Bundle (6 packs) — MSRP $26.94

• Elite Trainer Box (ETB) — Includes 9 packs, a Charcadet promo, dice, sleeves, and storage box. MSRP $49.99

• Ultra-Premium Collection (UPC) — Features an exclusive Mega Charizard X ex promo and premium accessories. MSRP $119.99

• Mega Gengar ex & Mega Diancie ex decks — Release slightly earlier on Oct. 24, MSRP $14.99–$19.99

SEE ALSO: Where to buy Pokémon cards in 2025 — avoid overpaying or missing out on new sets Phantasmal Flames Best Buy preorders Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

Best Buy usually lists Pokémon TCG sealed product preorders 24-48 hours after Pokémon Center goes live. Early signs suggest listings are already being prepared in the backend.

• Phantasmal Flames Booster Box

• Phantasmal Flames Elite Trainer Box

• Phantasmal Flames Ultra-Premium Collection

• Phantasmal Flames Booster Bundle

• Mega Gengar ex Deck

• Mega Diancie ex Deck

Phantasmal Flames Target preorders Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

Target is usually up next after Best Buy, which means it's a great backup for those who've missed out on The Pokémon Center and Best Buy:

• Phantasmal Flames Booster Box

• Phantasmal Flames Elite Trainer Box

• Phantasmal Flames Ultra-Premium Collection

• Phantasmal Flames Booster Bundle

• Mega Gengar ex Deck

• Mega Diancie ex Deck

Phantasmal Flames Amazon preorders Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

Amazon has been a bit hit and miss with Pokémon TCG preorders. Sometimes they come up, sometimes they don't. With a bad track record of selling Pokémon TCG way over MSRP and secondary market values, I'm not too sure when Phantasmal Flames will go live here:

• Phantasmal Flames Booster Box

• Phantasmal Flames Elite Trainer Box

• Phantasmal Flames Ultra-Premium Collection

• Phantasmal Flames Booster Bundle

• Mega Gengar ex Deck

• Mega Diancie ex Deck

Phantasmal Flames TCGPlayer preorders Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

TCGPlayer also handle preorders, otherwise known as presale in their realm. Products usually start appearing on the market after big retailers drop their preorder allocations and smaller sellers have their allocations locked in. Here's some quick links to keep you on top of the situation, just bear in mind that the pricing will almost certainly be above MSRP and in-line with current market values:

• Phantasmal Flames Booster Box

• Phantasmal Flames Elite Trainer Box

• Phantasmal Flames Ultra-Premium Collection

• Phantasmal Flames Booster Bundle

• Mega Gengar ex Deck

• Mega Diancie ex Deck

What's inside Phantasmal Flames products?

• Booster Box: 36 packs — the most efficient way to build a collection or prep for tournaments.

• Booster Bundle: 6 packs, cheap and cheerful

• Elite Trainer Box: 9 packs plus an exclusive Charcadet promo.

• Ultra-Premium Collection: A premium display box with a Mega Charizard X ex promo and high-end accessories.

• Theme Decks: Ready-to-play decks starring Mega Gengar ex and Mega Diancie ex.

The Japanese connection: Inferno X Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

Phantasmal Flames is based on Japan’s Inferno X, which releases Sept. 26, 2025. Inferno X featurs Mega Charizard X ex alongside Mega Sharpedo ex, Moltres, and Oricorio ex.

It contains just 80 main-set cards before secret rares — one of the leanest Japanese sets in recent memory. Combined with Japan’s Mega Gengar ex and Mega Diancie ex starter decks, Inferno X forms the backbone of what we’ll see in Phantasmal Flames. Here aer the sets on TCGPlayer:

• Inferno X Booster Box

• Mega Diancie ex starter deck

• Mega Gengar ex starter deck

Collectors already know some of the chase cards, including the Mega Charizard X ex secret rare previewed at Worlds. Expect that card to dominate the English set’s singles market when release day hits.

BMW's first Neue Klasse electric vehicle is here, and it's already one of the most interesting new EVs to come from Europe in the past couple of years.

First announced in 2023, the Neue Klasse (that's German for "new class") is a radical rethinking of BMW's philosophy, with a new design language, a minimalistic, digital-first interior, and promises of smarter tech, as well as more range, efficiency, and speedy charging — in short, all of the things that buyers of electric vehicles crave.

The BMW iX3 is the first officially unveiled Neue Klasse car, and it delivers on all of the above, at least on paper.

From the side, it almost looks like a regular BMW family hauler. Credit: BMW

Somewhat oddly, it bears the same name as the current BMW iX3, a fairly pedestrian electric SUV (or SAV — sport activity vehicle — as BMW calls it). And yes, the new BMW iX3 is still a mid-sized family hauler that runs on battery power, but it's also miles ahead of its predecessor on most counts.

SEE ALSO: EU faces legal action from Tesla, BMW over tariffs on Chinese-made EVs

The first model to hit the stores — in spring 2026 in Europe, followed by a U.S. launch in the summer —will be the BMW iX3 50 xDrive. It comes with a massive 679–805-kilometer (421–500-mile) WLTP range, thanks to a huge, 108.7kW lithium ion battery. The car allows for 400kW charging at compatible charging stations, meaning it'll charge from 10 to 80 percent in 21 minutes.

The iX30 50 xDrive is powered by two electric motors, giving it a maximum output of 469 horsepower, which should be enough to get from 0–100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h (130mph). BMW says that the drive tech it developed for Neue Klasse reduces energy losses by 40 percent compared to its fifth-gen eDrive tech, which is part of the reason why the new iX3 boasts a combined electric power consumption of 17.9–15.1 kWh/100 km.

Those taillights will be unmissable on the road. Credit: BMW

While the exterior design isn't that much of a radical departure from some of BMW's newer models (yay for smaller "kidneys" on the front grille), the interior is a different story. The oddly shaped, sort-of square center display probably won't be to everyone's taste, but it's certainly different from everything we've seen inside other cars. Same goes for the Panoramic Vision display that's spread under the entire length of the windshield, offering a quick glance of features like navigation, music, weather and time.

It's not just for show (pun intended). BMW's new infotainment system, the BMW Panoramic iDrive (based on the freshly developed BMW Operating System X) "brings together displays, geometry and light & sound design into a holistic experience," according to the company.

We need a name for the shape of the center display. Credit: BMW

OK, now that we've had a chuckle, it really does seem like BMW put a lot of thought into modernizing the infotainment while making sure you actually pay attention to the road. There's also the optional BMW 3D Head-Up-Display, and nearly all of it can be controlled by the busy array of buttons either side of the steering wheel.

The brains behind all of this are all brand new — all four of them, that is. BMW claims that its Neue Klasse features four "superbrains." One of them, called Heart of Joy (BMW just likes giving names to things), is responsible for the drivetrain, brakes, energy recuperation, and steering. Another, which BMW claims has "20 times greater processing power than conventional control units," takes care of the car's automated driving and parking functions.

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As for the regular car stuff, suffice to say that the BMW iX3 measures 4,782 millimeters in length and has a respectable 520 liters in the back, alongside a small frunk which can hold 58 liters of cargo.

There's no word on price for all of this, but it'll sure make your eyes water if you opt for the optional M Sport or M package or M Sport package Pro. On the other hand, BMW says other, cheaper models will follow down the road.

This model is a big deal for BMW. The company plans to implement some of the Neue Klasse tech into 40 new models and model updates by 2027. It looks pretty great from afar, though it'll take a closer look to see how well it's all been put together.

September is bringing a treat for stargazers: a total lunar eclipse. If you’ve ever wanted to see the Moon turn a deep, reddish hue, Sept. 7 is your chance.

Visible across Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia, you don't need much to prepare for this kind of astronomical event, as long as it’s not too cloudy, it's easy to catch from your backyard.

Here’s everything you need to know about September's total lunar eclipse.

When is September's total lunar eclipse?

The total lunar eclipse will take place on Sunday, Sept. 7. According to Royal Museums Greenwich, the peak will occur at 7.33 p.m. BST.

How to see the total lunar eclipse

Viewing advice for Sunday's total lunar eclipse is standard for any astronomical event. Head somewhere dark, as far from light pollution as you can. Binoculars and a telescope aren't necessary, Emily Rice, an astronomer at Macaulay Honors College of the City University of New York, told Mashable, but if you already have them, it won't hurt to use them.

What is a total lunar eclipse?

Lunar eclipses happen during full moons, NASA tells us. They occur when Earth lines up exactly between the Sun and the Moon, its shadow falls on the Moon, making it look darker and sometimes giving it a dramatic red glow for a few hours.

During a total lunar eclipse, as the Moon moves into the central part of Earth’s shadow, known as the umbra, some sunlight still reaches its surface after passing through Earth’s atmosphere. Shorter wavelengths like blue and violet will scatter (i.e., light being redirected as it passes through the atmosphere), while longer wavelengths (red and orange colors) make it through. That's why the Moon appears red in color during a total lunar eclipse, according to NASA.

At any one time, a lunar eclipse can be seen from about half of the planet. This eclipse will be happening during the daytime in North and South America, so it won't be visible to that side of the world.

When is the next full moon?

The next full moon will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 7.

Tonight's full moon is bringing excitement in parts of the world with the appearance of a full lunar eclipse. For the places that won't be so lucky, tonight's full moon is still worth studying.

Beyond the werewolf folklore, September's full moon marks an important point in the lunar calendar, with seasonal significance. Here’s when it's due, what it’s called, and what it means.

When is the September full moon?

September's full moon will take place on Sunday, Sept. 7. The previous full moon was on Aug. 9.

According to Astronomy.com, this month's full moon will peak at 2:09 a.m. ET.

What is the September full moon called?

The full moons each have a name, a tradition that comes from early cultures using the lunar cycle to track time and seasonal changes.

This month's full moon is known as the Corn Moon, according to Royal Museums Greenwich, simply because this is when crops would be collected at the end of the summer.

When is the next full moon?

The next full moon is predicted to occur on Oct. 7, 2025, according to NASA's Daily Moon Guide.

What are the lunar phases?

The full moon is just one day of the lunar phase, which is a 29.5-day cycle of the moon's orbit. Moon phases are how the moon looks from Earth as it goes around us. We always see the same side of the moon, but how much of it is lit up by the Sun changes depending on where it is in its orbit. This is how we get full moons, half moons, and moons that appear completely invisible.

There are eight main moon phases, and they follow a repeating cycle:

• New Moon — The moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it's invisible to the eye).

• Waxing Crescent — A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

• First Quarter — Half of the moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-moon.

• Waxing Gibbous — More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.

• Full Moon — The whole face of the moon is illuminated and fully visible.

• Waning Gibbous — The moon starts losing light on the right side.

• Last Quarter (or Third Quarter) — Another half-moon, but now the left side is lit.

• Waning Crescent — A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.

BMW has unveiled the all-new 2026 iX3, and it’s more than just an update, it’s a direct challenge to Tesla. This new generation rides on BMW’s Neue Klasse EV platform, a purpose-built electric architecture that brings lighter construction, better efficiency, and faster charging to the table.

The onset of artificial intelligence has changed the dating game in recent years, from singles using AI to chat up other humans to venturing to "dating" a bot itself. Earlier this year, Mashable's senior culture reporter Christianna Silva and tech reporter Cecily Mauran duked it out over whether dating an AI chatbot is considered cheating. Now, the Kinsey Institute and DatingAdvice.com have statistics on what daters themselves think.

In a survey of 2,000 American adults collected this year, 33 percent said either sexting or having a romantic relationship with AI is cheating. Of those people, 64 percent said both of those activities constitute infidelity; 21 percent selected only sexting with an AI, while 15 percent selected only romantic relationships.

SEE ALSO: A surprising reason some men will date AI instead of a human

"Among those who consider intimate interactions with an AI bot to be cheating, it seems that most people don't make a distinction between sexual and emotional intimacy. Most see any type of intimacy directed toward this technology as crossing a line," Dr. Justin Lehmiller, senior research fellow at the Kinsey Institute and one of the study's lead authors, told Mashable.

When Mashable showed sociologist and founder of the Center for Courageous Intimacy, Dr. Jennifer Gunsaullus, these statistics, she said. "These numbers reflect how unsettled some folks feel about what counts as intimacy in the age of AI. It can be difficult for us to know how to categorize AI interactions because they blur the lines between fantasy, porn, and the emotions we feel in actual human connections."

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Kinsey and DatingAdvice also asked about other online interactions — including porn. Some believe that conversing with sex workers is cheating: 45 percent said they'd feel cheated on if their partner sent money to cam models (36 percent said the same if their partner talked to a cam model online, while 33 percent said likewise about their partner subscribing to someone's OnlyFans). Twenty percent believe that if their partner watched porn, they'd feel cheated on.

There are other digital actions that some would say are cheating: 72 percent said sexting with someone else, and 13 percent following or liking posts from someone attractive on social media.

But when it comes to the connection between humans and AI, Gunsaullus said that whether specific intimate interactions with AI are treated as cheating depends less on the technology and more on the agreements a couple makes.

"If couples want to cultivate healthy, trusting, connected relationships in the age of AI, they need to have clear discussions and boundary-setting about this within their relationship, and not just assume they are both on the same page in terms of what counts as infidelity," she said.

Big trucks aren’t always the answer. Sure, the Ford F-Series still rules the road, but not everyone needs (or wants) something that massive.

Bose has just announced the next generation of its popular QuietComfort Ultra Headphones. The best part of this new version is how much it has improved on the last generation, which means that upgrading may be a smart option.

Anyone who's seen We Need to Talk About Kevin will know that writer/director Lynne Ramsay has an impressive knack for exploring the dark hearts of seemingly ordinary families and relationships.

The teaser for her new movie, Die My Love, co-written with Enda Walsh and Alice Birch and based on Ariana Harwicz' book of the same name, looks like it'll be no exception. The one-minute mini-trailer doesn't give too much away, but it does show stars Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson locked in a seemingly blissful romance before things take a turn for the confusing and violent.

Die My Love is "coming soon" to Mubi.

Bose has announced the second generation of its QuietComfort Ultra headphones. Priced at $449, the updated model is available for preorder starting Sept. 5 and will be released in the U.S. on Oct. 2. A global rollout is expected the same day.

The new QuietComfort Ultra headphones keep the familiar focus on noise cancellation and comfort while adding several new features aimed at improving everyday use.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) $449 at Bose
Pre-order Here The new QuietComfort Ultra headphones: By the numbers

How will the new flagship Bose headphones differ from the originals? Let's dive into the specs:

• Battery life: up to 30 hours (45 with ANC turned off)

• Charge time: 3 hours

• Quick charge: 15 minutes provides 3 hours of playtime

• Dimensions: 6.299” x 1.772” x 8.071”

• Weight: 0.583 lbs

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound Technology Suite

New color options

The new headphones will be available in four colors: white smoke, midnight violet, driftwood sand, and black. The latter two colors are limited-edition. Bose sometimes releases limited-edition colorways at its online store, though only these four colors will be available at launch.

White Smoke Credit: Bose Driftwood Sand Credit: Bose Black Credit: Bose Midnight Color Credit: Bose What's changed?

The most notable change is USB-C audio support. The headphones can now play lossless audio at 16-bit, 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz when connected to a laptop, phone, or gaming desktop. The first generation Ultra headphones relied only on Bluetooth or a 2.5 mm aux cable for wired listening.

Credit: Bose

Cinema Mode is another new feature. It expands the soundstage while sharpening dialogue, making it more useful for movies, television, podcasts, and audiobooks compared to the original immersive audio setting that focused mainly on music.

Other updates include improved adaptive noise cancellation through a new ActiveSense algorithm, more reliable on-head detection that removes the need for the power button, and a lay-flat disconnect feature that turns off Bluetooth and enters a low-power mode when the headphones are set on a surface.

Battery life has also been extended. The headphones now last up to 30 hours with active noise cancellation, 23 hours with immersive audio enabled, or 45 hours with noise cancellation turned off. They can be charged during use over USB-C, and a 15-minute charge provides around three hours of playback.

Should you upgrade?

The design is largely the same as the first generation, with plush ear cushions, a collapsible frame, and the same overall weight. Comfort was already a strength of the line, but Bose has not reduced the size or weight compared to competitors.

Credit: Bose

Codec support remains limited to SBC, AAC, and aptX Adaptive. Popular formats like LDAC, found on Sony’s XM5s, are not supported. Sound personalization through Bose’s CustomTune technology is still present, but the improvements this year focus more on usability than raw sound performance.

The original QuietComfort Ultra launched in 2023 as Bose’s first step into spatial audio. While generally well-received, it lacked USB-C audio, battery life was modest, and on-head detection often misfired. The second generation addresses those issues directly. It adds wired lossless playback, a longer-lasting battery, and reliable detection features. Cinema Mode broadens the use cases for spatial audio, but the improvements are incremental rather than transformative. Owners of the first generation may not find the upgrade necessary unless lossless audio or the new cinema-focused sound mode is a priority.

At $449, the price remains higher than some competing models such as the aformentioned Sony WH-1000XM5s, which retail for $399. However, these new headphones can still be purchased for less than Apple’s AirPods Max at $549. It's competitive out there, so every little helps.

Where to pre-order the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) Pre-order in Black Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) $449 at Bose Pre-Order Here Pre-order in Midnight Violet Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) $449 at Bose Pre-Order Here Pre-order in Driftwood Sand Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) $449 at Bose Pre-Order Here Pre-order in White Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) $449 at Bose Pre-Order Here

One of the most important aspects of immersing yourself in the games that you play is the feeling that you are actually within their worlds. Motion peripherals, such as Wii remotes or VR hand controllers, enable you to control your player character using your own hands or feet, helping to create this illusion.