Apple AIRPODS RIVALS TESTED

We test five Bluetooth in-ear headphones that offer the freedom of wireless listening

Audio accessory companies are embracing wireless tech to cater for smartphone users

You may have heard that Apple’s latest iPhones don’t have a headphone jack. The decision to remove it wasn’t exactly widely applauded, but we’ve seen Apple do this before – drag its customers, not to mention the entire technology industry, kicking and screaming into the future. Events usually proceed in the following sequence: 1) Apple kills a universal standard; 2) Cue collective outrage; 3) The long-term benefits gradually sink in; 4) The industry follows suit and the majority of users wonder what all the fuss was about.

Granted, we’re not quite there yet with the jack, mainly due to its abiding presence on a wide range of home audio equipment, plus Apple hasn’t quite mustered the ‘courage’ to remove it from its notebooks (yet). But that hasn’t slowed the embracing of wireless technology among audio accessory companies eager to cater for smartphone users. Concerns about Bluetooth’s ability to deliver decent sound quality still get bandied around, but the truth is that given the choice, many mobile users favour the convenience of wireless headsets over wired ones, knowing that they can always enjoy their music without compromise using their hi-fi and a wired connection at home.

Jack-free judgement

Over the next few pages, we’ll be comparing some of the most promising cord-free solutions in the headphone market and highlighting their unique features, relative merits, as well as any drawbacks. Notably, we’ll also be seeing how the rival brands stack up against AirPods, Apple’s own ‘truly wireless’ offering. So join us as we step into a jack-free future. Let’s get listening.