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.

Other World Computing (OWC) has announced the general availability launch of the OWC Dock Ejector 2.0, the ultimate solution for efficiently and safely ejecting all connected devices, including SoftRAID and AppleRAID volumes. This updated version works with all docks, including non-OWC docks and hubs, expanding compatibility and drive protection to all Mac and PC users.

The newly enhanced OWC Dock Ejector takes the tedium and risk out of un-docking devices individually. By ensuring all data has been written before any disk is unmounted, you can safely eject your dock without worrying about losing or fragmenting files.

New in OWC Dock Ejector 2.0:

1. Streamlined install process (new for Mac) – OWC is the first to ship software that enables high-power Thunderbolt dock ports without requiring reduced macOS security settings. OWC Dock Ejector 2.0 eliminates the need for Recovery Mode and simplifies the process compared to competing docks, which require users to boot into Recovery Mode, lower Mac security settings, reboot multiple times, and install system extensions. With OWC Dock Ejector 2.0, simply install the software, approve the system extension, and you’re done!
2. Enhanced Volume Mounting (new for Mac) – OWC Dock Ejector 2.0 simplifies volume management like never before. If you unmount a volume, you can easily remount it without the hassle of unplugging cables or using Apple’s Disk Utility application.

“OWC Dock Ejector 2.0 is all about making your life on the go easier while keeping your data secure,” said Larry O’Connor, CEO and Founder, Other World Computing (OWC). “With features like safe drive ejection, seamless connection management, and timesaving simplicity, it empowers everyone – whether you’re a creative professional, IT administrator, or tech enthusiast – to work more efficiently and securely, without ever compromising your macOS security settings. Never worry when you need to disconnect and go – we’ve got you!”

OWC Dock Ejector 2.0 Features and Benefits:

• Data Security – Avoid data corruption by safely ejecting all connected drives with a single click.
• Easy Connection Management – Optimized for seamless disconnection of storage devices and peripherals.
• Security First – No need to compromise your macOS security settings.
• Timesaving – Skip the tedious recovery mode process required by other docks.
• User-Friendly – Designed for simplicity without sacrificing functionality.

OWC Dock Ejector 2.0 is now available for free.

GENKI has announced the launch of Moonbase, a revolutionary charging hub designed to redefine how we power our devices. Featuring 4 USB-C ports and 3 AC outlets, Moonbase can simultaneously power up to 7 devices, from laptops and tablets to gaming consoles and more. Its 140W USB-C output can charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro to 50% in just 30 minutes, while the remaining ports efficiently handle a range of other devices.

Designed for universal compatibility, Moonbase supports a wide range of devices and standards, including USB-C PD and backward compatibility for older gadgets. Beyond functionality, Moonbase boasts a sleek, futuristic design inspired by lunar bases, available in two elegant finishes: Moonlight and Darkside. Customizable LED effects add a touch of personality, allowing users to adjust the lighting to match their environment or mood.

Safety is paramount, with Moonbase equipped with advanced features such as surge protection, safety door protection, grounding protection, and overcurrent/overvoltage protection. For those needing even more power, the optional TurboCharger module expands Moonbase to a 540W, 10-port powerhouse.

The Moonbase is currently available for pre-order on Indiegogo at a special introductory price of $88.

Key Features:

• 240W total power output
• 4 USB-C ports and 3 AC outlets
• 140W USB-C output for fast laptop charging
• Sleek, futuristic design with customizable LED effects
• Advanced safety features
• Optional TurboCharger module for expanded capacity
• Compatible with a wide range of devices