Bowers & Wilkins launched the PI7 and PI5, two new true wireless headphones models, which it says do not compromise “sound quality for the convenience of wireless”. The PI7 supports Qualcomm adaptive aptX wireless transmission from compatible mobile devices. This allows it to deliver superior audio quality while ensuring that the audio is in sync when using your headphones in a place where a lot of other people are using Bluetooth headphones.
The model also has the adaptive noise cancellation feature which can analyze ambient noise and tailor its output for the best possible experience. This feature works with all six microphones of the headphones to provide clear sound quality for phone calls. The company claims that each PI7 earpiece has a bespoke 9.2mm Bowers & Wilkins driver unit and has similar specifications to an advanced conventional speaker.
Meanwhile, the PI5 supports Qualcomm’s TrueWireless Stereo Plus technology which enables high quality headset-to-headset synchronization. The model is also capable of aptX wireless transmission for CD-quality playback and also comes with user-selectable noise canceling, as well as two built-in microphones per earpiece.
The PI7 has a battery life of four hours, while the PI5 can last up to 4.5 hours on a single charge. These are comparable to the battery life of the AirPod Pro, but they’re quite short for the 2021 models, especially at their price point – the $ 200 Galaxy Buds Pro, for example, can last up to five hours with hands-free ANC and Bixby turned on.
Both models support Siri and Google Assistant, depending on the paired device, and both can be paired with multiple sources. They come with a charging case, as you might expect, but the PI7 has one cool feature: it can connect to an audio source via a 3.5mm or USB cable, and then wirelessly stream the audio from that. source to headphones.
Some retailers had previously listed the high-end headphones for pre-order. Now, however, they’re officially available from Bowers & Wilkins in white and charcoal. The PI7 will set you back $ 399, while the PI5 will set you back $ 249.
PI5 (Bowers and Wilkins)
All products recommended by Engadget are selected by our editorial team, independent of our parent company. Some of our stories include affiliate links. If you buy something through any of these links, we may earn an affiliate commission.