Apple Launches Beats Studio3 Wireless Headphones with W1 Chip for $399.95 CAD

With recent price drops to Beats Studio Wireless headphones, many had a hunch new models would debut, and now we have just that, as Apple has announced new Beats Studio3 Wireless headphones, powered by the same W1 chip found in the company’s AirPods.

The quiet announcement made on a Labour Day Monday saw a few select publications announce the news, plus getting some brief demo time with these new headphones.

The big feature here, according to TechCrunch, is the new Pure Adaptive Noise Cancelling (Pure ANC) feature, which is suspected to target other high-end headphone makers such as Bose:

I was given a demo of the headset using a variety of different sound sources, and the Studio performed admirably. There’s a five or so second lapse as the headphone actively listens for changes in the environment, and then it slowly kicks in. The technology doesn’t drown sound out entirely, but it does a solid job, even with the staticky sound of wind hitting the microphone from a nearby desk fan. Of course, these were all still relatively controlled demoes, so I can’t speak to how the things work in the real world.

Top Features:

• Pure Adaptive Noise Cancelling (Pure ANC) actively blocks external noise
• Real-time audio calibration preserves a premium listening experience
• Up to 22 hours of battery life enables fully-featured all-day wireless playback
• Apple W1 chip for Class 1 Wireless Bluetooth® connectivity and battery efficiency
• With Fast Fuel, a 10-minute charge gives 3 hours of play when battery is low
• Pure ANC-off for low power mode provides up to 40 hours of battery life
• Take calls, control music and activate Siri with multifunction on-ear controls
• Soft over-ear cushions for extended comfort and added noise isolation

These new headphones feature 22 hours of battery life, besting rival headphones such as Bose’s QC35 and Sony’s MDR-1000X, while the W1 chip allows for Fast Fuel, meaning a 10-minute charge brings an extra 3 hours of battery life. Surprisingly, the headphones charge with micro USB instead of USB-C.

The new Studio3 Wireless headphones come in six colours: Shadow Gray (limited edition), Porcelain Rose, Matte Black, White, Blue and Red, priced at a hefty $399.95 CAD, shipping in mid-October. Anyone picking up a pair?