Sony, Jabra Target Hybrid Work User With MultiPoint ANC Earbuds

Earphone makers are targeting the hybrid work market with earphones integrating MultiPoint software. Sony is adding MultiPoint connection capability to its LinkBuds S true wireless earphones, launched in May, and it added a blue version ($199) of the active noise-canceling (ANC) earbuds, with a marble pattern, that's due in stores by the end of October. All models in the LinkBuds series, plus the WF-1000XM4 headphones, will get a MultiPoint software update in November, allowing users to connect to two devices at the same time. If a user is listening to music on her PC and a call comes in, the phone automatically goes into hands-free mode, without a need to switch connections, it said. Sony is also adding a Microsoft Teams-certified model, LinkBuds UC ($249, winter), that’s said to optimize audio on a videoconference call. Jabra bowed the Evolve2 Buds Tuesday, promoting the earbuds for hybrid work. They’re certified for virtual meeting platforms including Microsoft Teams and Zoom and are said to reduce disruptive background noise to enable “cleaner” calls. Adjustable ANC allows users to block out or reduce external sounds to their listening preference to minimize distraction, the company said. The Evolve2s come with a USB plug-in adapter that extends the Bluetooth range of the devices to 65 feet, Jabra said. The $269 earphones are due in late November.