These LG earbuds have some of the most advanced tech I've seen - but not for audio
Source: ZDNet
ZDNET’s key takeaways
- The LG Xboom Buds Plus are available in Black for $180.
- Their charging case features a germ‑killing UV light.
- The charging case also doubles as a Bluetooth transmitter.
Overview
LG’s collaboration with musician will.i.am has produced a range of Xboom earbuds and speakers. The newest release, the Xboom Buds Plus, stands out for its self‑cleaning charging case that includes a built‑in Bluetooth transmitter. Although announced last fall, the earbuds have only recently become available.
Also: What is Bluetooth 6.0? How the latest standard is changing audio right before our eyes
Features
Audio and Drivers
- 10 mm graphene drivers for improved sound reproduction.
- Adaptive EQ that tailors the audio profile to the listening environment.
Noise Cancellation and Microphones
- Six microphones enable active noise cancellation (ANC).
Water Resistance and Battery Life
- IPX4 rating protects against sweat and light rain.
- Up to 30 hours of total playtime with the charging case.
Bluetooth LE Audio Compatibility
- Supports Bluetooth LE Audio, including the LC3 codec and Auracast.
Bluetooth Transmitter
The case can act as a Bluetooth transmitter for non‑wireless audio sources (e.g., treadmill, in‑flight entertainment). It requires a proprietary USB‑C‑to‑3.5 mm cable supplied by LG. Using the case as the transmitter eliminates the need for separate Bluetooth dongles.
Also: This Bluetooth Auracast receiver made me take my home theater setup much more seriously
UV‑C Cleaning Technology
LG’s UVnano technology in the charging case claims to eliminate 99.99 % of bacteria on the ear gels and speaker mesh. The UV function targets bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae, and it only operates when the case is connected to power.
Compatibility and Bluetooth LE Audio
- iPhone (US): Does not currently support Bluetooth LE Audio features.
- Samsung: Often blocks the LC3 codec in favor of its proprietary Samsung Seamless Codec.
- Google Pixel: Supports both LC3 and Auracast.
Pricing and Availability
The LG Xboom Buds Plus are now available for purchase in Black at $180.