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Sony MEA Launches ECM-W2BT Wireless Microphone and ECM-LV1 Compact Stereo Lavalier Microphone

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Sony Middle East & Africa announced two new microphones with the launch of the ECM-W2BT Multi Interface Shoe compatible wireless microphone and ECM-LV1 compact stereo lavalier microphone. Wireless high-quality audio recording with lower noise and stable connection is possible with the ECM-W2BT wireless microphone, especially when paired with the ECM-LV1 stereo lavalier microphone and one of Sony’s cameras with digital audio compatibility. This combination offers the perfect solution to meet the needs of today’s vloggers, YouTubers and video creators who want to capture clear, reliable audio for a wide range of environments including street performance, product reviews, food reviews travel vlogs and more.

The ECM-W2BT wireless microphone enables low-noise digital sound recording, by connecting the receiver to a camera1 equipped with a digital audio interface compatible Multi Interface Shoe. The digital audio signal output from the receiver can be recorded directly on the camera body without needing an external audio cable. Additionally, the ECM-W2BT has been completely redesigned for high sound quality using an advanced omni-directional mic capsule to capture clear sound recording from any direction.

The ECM-W2BT also allows audio recording flexibility by increasing the stability of the wireless connection between microphone and receiver, even with obstacles or in crowded environments with additional wireless activity. In locations with good visibility, communication is possible at up to 200m, significantly increasing the flexibility of audio recording. And the newly adopted Qualcomm aptX Low Latency codec provides both high-quality audio recording and low latency.

The ECM-W2BT wireless microphone also offers ultimate creative freedom thanks to its sound recording functions. Three sound pick up modes – MIC mode, MIX mode and a new RCVR mode – allows the user to record sound and ambient sound based on their desired preference. MIC mode will only pickup audio from the microphone transmitter, so only the subject’s audio is captured. RCVR mode only picks up sound from the internal microphone at the receiver, so the user can record audio of themselves.

MIX mode picks up both transmitter and receiver audio which is useful when audio from both the subject and the user is desired. The ECM-W2BT mic supports stereo audio input with an external 3.5mm stereo mini-jack to allow for stereo sound pickup, so it can be used in combination with the stereo-capable lavalier microphone such as the ECM-LV1 compact stereo lavalier microphone, as an unobtrusive microphone that can easily attach to the subject’s clothing and record sound with increased realism. Since the receiver is equipped with 3.5mm audio output, the ECM-W2BT can also be used with camera models that are not equipped with a Multi Interface Shoe.

For challenging recording environments, the ECM-W2BT wireless microphone includes an attenuator function. The user can select one of three attenuator levels depending on the volume of the sound source to record excessively loud sounds at a lower volume or amplify quieter sounds to record louder audio. The ECM-W2BT also includes a windscreen to reduce wind noise, which is especially helpful when recording outdoors.

When longer operation is needed, the battery assist function via the power supply from the camera’s Multi Interface Shoe enables the user to operate the receiver for up to 9 hours. For easy reference, the ECM-W2BT includes a LINK lamp to notify the user of the status of the communication between the microphone and the receiver and a POWER lamp to easily check the remaining battery charge. A connector protect holder-cover for the Multi Interface foot of the receiver is provided, which can be used to carry the receiver and microphone as one unit. It also can be used as a microphone stand, for stable microphone positioning during interviews or other stationary uses.

The ECM-LV1 compact stereo lavalier microphone also allows for high-quality sound pickup paired with a compact design for easy carrying and convenience while shooting. The ECM-LV1 includes a windscreen for additional noise reduction, and the 360-degree rotatable clip allows, for example, horizontal attachment to a necktie, or vertical attachment to a pocket, with the microphone attached at the same angle. The power of this mic is supplied from the mic connector.

The ECM-W2BT wireless microphone and the ECM-LV1 Compact Stereo Lavalier Microphone will be available in the Middle East & Africa from April 2021.

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HUAWEI Intros Open-Ear FreeArc Earbuds

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Huawei has launched its latest audio innovation, the HUAWEI FreeArc, further solidifying its leadership in the fast-growing open-ear wearables segment. Designed for comfort and situational awareness, the FreeArc offers a secure, pressure-free fit without blocking the ear canal—catering to users who demand high-quality audio without sacrificing awareness of their surroundings.

Open-ear earbuds, which sit outside the ear rather than inside it, have surged in popularity due to their comfort and safety benefits, particularly for fitness enthusiasts, commuters, and professionals. According to Canalys, global shipments of open-ear headphones reached nearly 8 million units in Q3 2024—a staggering fourfold increase from the same period last year.

Huawei has been at the forefront of this shift. The company ranked first in global wearable shipments for the first three quarters of 2024 (IDC), backed by its extensive audio R&D network—including seven research centers, over 1,000 audio specialists, and more than 250 patents. Its first open-ear model, the HUAWEI FreeClip, has already surpassed 2 million units shipped worldwide, demonstrating strong consumer demand for innovative wearable audio solutions.

Huawei’s journey in open-ear wearables began in 2019 with its collaboration with Gentle Monster on HUAWEI Eyewear, blending fashion with cutting-edge audio technology. The FreeClip, launched later, marked Huawei’s entry into the Open Wireless Stereo (OWS) category, featuring a flexible C-bridge design for a lightweight, breathable fit.

Now, the FreeArc takes this legacy further as Huawei’s first open-ear earbuds with earhooks. Built with a nickel-titanium alloy frame, the new model enhances stability and adaptability for a wider range of ear shapes while retaining the signature C-bridge comfort. Engineered for active lifestyles, the FreeArc boasts an IP57 rating for dust and water resistance, making it ideal for workouts, travel, and daily commutes. Key enhancements include:

  1. High-sensitivity drivers for crisp, balanced sound
  2. Dual-Resonator Antenna for stronger connectivity
  3. Wind-resistant microphones for clearer calls in outdoor environments

With the FreeArc, Huawei continues to refine its open-ear offerings, combining ergonomic design with practical durability.

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Yango Group Launches Yasmina Lite Smart Speaker

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Yango Group has launched Yasmina Lite, the latest addition to its line of smart speakers. Available in three bright colours — pink, purple, and green — Yasmina Lite is the smallest device in the range to date. The new speaker is equipped with the powerful AI assistant Yasmina that engages in intelligent, human-like conversations in both Arabic and English.

Designed with families in mind, Yasmina now features whisper mode — if a person whispers to Yasmina, the assistant whispers back. This mode is perfect for quiet moments, like planning the next day while other family members are asleep. Simply whisper, “Yasmina, what’s the weather tomorrow?” and the assistant will respond in a hushed tone.

Yasmina also offers access to a wide range of educational and entertainment content. Parents can use it to play podcasts and audio stories from Shamandar for their children. The AI assistant also streams music from Yango Play and can identify up to four family members by voice, adapting to their preferences. It remembers their likes and dislikes and suggests songs they might enjoy based on their tastes.
Yasmina excels at breaking down complex ideas and making them accessible to anyone.

Whether it’s scientific principles or cultural practices, the AI assistant explains concepts in ways that resonate with people of all ages. From answering questions like “How do bees make honey?” to helping with math using a built-in calculator, Yasmina is always ready to chat and explain. Available in three colours, the Yasmina Lite smart speaker also comes with playful stickers, so that families can customize the speaker to match their tastes.

“The Yasmina Lite smart speaker is indeed the brightest and most playful smart speaker we’ve ever created — small in size but big in personality,” said Rami Abu Arja, Senior Innovation Marketing Manager at Yasmina, Yango Group Middle East. “Featuring a powerful AI assistant capable of human-like interactions and a vibrant design, this new addition to the range is the perfect choice for those young at heart. It’s not just a speaker — it’s an everyday companion that brings joy, knowledge, and entertainment to your home.”

To fully enjoy everything, the Yasmina Lite smart speaker has to offer, including music streaming and recommendations, users need to activate a subscription to Yango Play. The Yasmina Lite smart speaker is now available for purchase through various outlets across the UAE, including Eros, Jumbo, Sharaf, and Virgin Mega Store. Customers can also find the Yasmina Lite smart speaker online on Amazon and Noon. It is currently priced at AED 199.

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Apple’s Beats Unveils Powerbeats Pro 2 with Heart-Rate Monitoring

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Apple Inc.’s Beats division has unveiled the long-awaited Powerbeats Pro 2, which features noise cancellation, a heart-rate monitor, and a revamped design aimed at athletes. This new model incorporates capabilities seen in Apple’s AirPods, such as transparency mode for better external noise awareness and the H2 chip for enhanced sound quality. Additionally, it offers improved spatial audio for a 3D listening experience and comes with a smaller, wireless charging case.

The heart-rate monitor is a notable first for Apple-designed earbuds, expanding the company’s health-related features, and utilizes technology found in the Apple Watch. Despite a slow holiday season for Apple’s wearables business—with sales in the division falling nearly 2% to about $11.8 billion—the introduction of these new earbuds is anticipated to drive interest and sales.

Priced at $250, the same as the previous model, the new Powerbeats Pro 2 will be available in black, orange, purple, and a color called quicksand. This price point matches the AirPods Pro 2, although the Powerbeats may be more appealing to athletes due to their secure ear hooks.

Apple Vice President Oliver Schusser, who oversees Beats as well as the company’s sports, TV+, and music initiatives, hailed the new Powerbeats as “the most impressive product in Beats’ history.” Acquired by Apple in 2014 for $3 billion, Beats remains the company’s largest acquisition to date.

The heart-rate monitor will be compatible with fitness apps like Peloton, Nike Run Club, Ladder, and Slopes, with data integration into the Apple Health app. The earbuds will also be compatible with Android devices. Apple is reportedly working on AirPods with heart-rate monitoring, though they are still many months away from release.

In terms of battery life, the Powerbeats Pro 2 holds an advantage over AirPods, with 10 hours of usage on their own and 45 hours with the charging case, compared to six hours for AirPods alone and up to 30 hours with the case. However, AirPods continue to offer unique features, such as a new hearing aid functionality.

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