Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro hands-on, first impressions

CES may almost be over but not without Samsung introducing its new line of products. As expected, the company released its newest flagship line, the Galaxy S21 series and alongside these three new smartphones is the company’s newest true wireless offering, the Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro.

The new Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro adopts a couple of design cues from the previously released Galaxy Buds Live. We’ve still got that rather small rounded square charging case with its LED indicator light sitting at the bottom. But unlike the Buds Live, we aren’t getting a shiny bean-shaped earbud but a shiny pebble-shaped one instead.

In our short time with the device, we found it provided a good, comfortable fit overall. Audio is delivered by a 6.5mm tweeter mated with an 11mm woofer. On-board is a 3-microphone system with Wind Shield sound technology for better vocal clarity. The buds also carry IPX7 water resistance so you won’t have to worry if the device gets wet.

Samsung boasts of the Galaxy Buds Pro’s active noise cancelation that’s able to filter out up to 99% of background noise. The device also provides adjustments for its noise-canceling feature. You can, for example, lower the noise cancelation levels to low if you’re in a quieter environment. The Ambient sound mode, which lets in ambient noise, also has four levels of adjustment to suit all kinds of situations.

But a more exciting feature can be found on Samsung’s newest true wireless earbuds, the Intelligent Active Noise-canceling. By combing both ANC and Ambient sound technology, the Galaxy Buds Pro is able to intelligently and automatically switch between modes. The Galaxy Buds Pro can detect when one is speaking or being spoken to and will switch to ambient sound so the user can hear voices. Once the device detects that the conversation has finished, it will then switch back to noise cancelation and bring back the audio or music volume to the last setting.

We were able to put this to the test and can verify that the intelligent switching between modes does work. We’re not just sure how this will play out with prolonged usage or how much faster is the battery being drained when this feature is on.

We found this to be a very convenient feature. The buds weren’t able to detect just voice but also loud sounds or disturbances which will possibly be helpful in certain situations. Noise cancellation can be turned on via the Galaxy Wearable app, widget, Bluetooth settings, or even Bixby voice commands.

The Galaxy Buds Pro also offers an Auto Switch feature exclusive to the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem. As the name suggests, the Galaxy Buds Pro will be able to seamlessly switch its connection between active Galaxy devices. If you’re watching on a Galaxy tablet, for example, and you get an incoming call from your Galaxy phone, you simply have to answer the call and the earbuds will automatically switch its connection to the phone. Once the call ends, it will switch back its connection to the tablet and you can continue watching.

Samsung says the Galaxy Buds Pro can provide one-hour playtime with a 5-minute charge. Additionally, it will be available in three different colors. It’s a promising device but we need to spend more time with it before we can give our verdict.

If you have any questions about the device, just jump on the comments section and join the discussion.

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Honda shares insights on its innovative Two-Motor Hybrid System

12/29/2023

Honda has proactively embraced electrification technologies to address the critical challenge of reducing CO2 emissions in its mobility product lineup. Among these technologies, hybrid-electric systems have gained prominence, leading Honda to expand its range of hybrid-electric models.

A hybrid-electric vehicle integrates electric motors with an engine, optimizing fuel economy by efficiently utilizing both power sources. Honda shares that its e:HEV hybrid-electric system combines existing engine and electrification technologies with new advancements, achieving notably high fuel efficiency and an enhanced driving experience.

In the e:HEV system, the electric motor propels the vehicle across the entire speed range, while the internal combustion engine (ICE) engages solely during high-speed cruising. This distinctive approach balances high environmental performance with the unique driving enjoyment characteristic of the e:HEV, an experience not attainable with an ICE-only system.

To maximize the benefits of both motors and engines, the e:HEV system intelligently adapts to different driving conditions. In low- to mid-speed ranges, where electric motors excel, the system operates similarly to a series hybrid. Conversely, during high-speed cruising, where engines perform optimally, the e:HEV functions as a parallel hybrid. This dual-mode strategy sets the e:HEV apart as an intelligent hybrid system exclusive to Honda.

Distinguishing itself from series-parallel hybrid systems, the e:HEV prioritizes efficient motor drive for daily driving situations. It features two distinct modes – EV drive mode and Hybrid drive mode – each offering high-quality motor driving and efficiency without the complexity of intricate power distribution mechanisms.

The two-motor hybrid-electric system, a key component of the e:HEV, comprises a traction motor and a generator motor. These motors efficiently convert engine output into electricity, supply power to the tires, and regenerate electricity during deceleration. The simplicity of this system, without complex mechanisms for mixing battery/engine power or transmission, ensures highly efficient and smooth driving, minimizing frictional losses.

Maintaining high efficiency across varied driving scenarios, the e:HEV intelligently switches between three modes:

1. EV drive mode: During startup acceleration and city driving, the vehicle relies solely on the motor, powered by battery electricity. The engine remains off, providing a smooth, gasoline-free driving experience.

2. Hybrid drive mode: The vehicle operates on the motor using electricity generated by the engine, achieving powerful acceleration with a balanced and linear feel.

3. Engine drive mode: During high-speed cruising, where less driving force is required, the engine drive mode proves more efficient than running the motor at high speed. Directly connecting the engine output to the driveshaft minimizes power loss.

Additionally, the e:HEV employs regenerative braking in EV drive mode, converting kinetic energy into electricity during deceleration or downhill driving, further enhancing its efficiency.

It’s interesting how far car manufacturers have come in terms of minimizing carbon footprint of our vehicles. While the road to 100% electric vehicles is still a far reach, we can at least already see the horizon and the kind of future it holds for a greener mobility solution. If you want to learn more about the details of Honda’s Two-Motor Hybrid System, you may check the full article published by Honda.

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