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Apple brings heart rate monitoring to Powerbeats Pro 2
Apple has launched the Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds, featuring heart rate monitoring and improved features like battery life and sound quality. The earbuds strengthen Apple's health care focus alongside the Apple Watch and AirPods. They are priced at $250 and available online, with retail sales starting February 13, 2024.
Key points
- New Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds announced, featuring heart rate monitoring.
- Earbuds have upgraded sound, battery life, and wireless charging case.
- Heart rate monitoring provides real-time data during workouts via optical sensors.
- Compatible with various fitness apps, but Strava not included.
- Powerbeats Pro 2 expand Apple’s health-focused product line, enhancing Apple's health suite.
- New chips improve battery life to 10 hours per earbud and 45 hours total with case.
- Earhooks made of nickel alloy for improved strength, lighter overall weight.
- IPX4 sweat resistance rating for exercise use.
- Price set at $250, same as 2019 model, with ads featuring star athletes.
Why it matters
- Apple's health technology expansion began with the Apple Watch, which includes features like ECG and sleep tracking.
- The introduction of heart rate monitoring aligns with current trends of wearable health technology and fitness tracking.
- Market competition intensifies with advancements in health features, positioning Apple against brands like Fitbit and Garmin.
- Increase in demand for smart health devices is driven by consumer interest in personal fitness and wellness.
The Powerbeats Pro 2's introduction illustrates Apple's commitment to integrating health features in wearables, signaling a broader trend in technology focusing on personal health tracking and fitness enhancement.