Perplexity is building a browser in part to collect customer data for targeted ads

AI company Perplexity announced in February that it was building its own browser called Comet. In a recent interview with the TBPN podcast, CEO Aravind Srinivas gave some insight as to why the business appeared to be branching out from its artificial intelligence focus: It’s to collect user data and sell them targeted advertisements.

“That’s kind of one of the other reasons we wanted to build a browser, is we want to get data even outside the app to better understand you,” he said. “We plan to use all the context to build a better user profile and, maybe you know, through our discover feed we could show some ads there.”

If that all sounds familiar, it could be become Google’s Chrome browser has taken a similar approach. In fact, Comet is built on Chromium, the open-source browser base from Google. That’s not to say Perplexity wouldn’t take the chance to go straight to the source and acquire Chrome in the aftermath of Google’s recent monopoly court ruling regarding online search. In the ongoing hearings about Google and its potential sale of Chrome, Chief Business Officer Dmitry Shevelenko said he thought Perplexity would be able to continue running the browser at its current scale. Unsurprisingly, he wasn’t too keen on OpenAI acquiring the property.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/perplexity-is-building-a-browser-in-part-to-collect-customer-data-for-targeted-ads-230132091.html?src=rss

Perplexity is building a browser in part to collect customer data for targeted ads

AI company Perplexity announced in February that it was building its own browser called Comet. In a recent interview with the TBPN podcast, CEO Aravind Srinivas gave some insight as to why the business appeared to be branching out from its artificial intelligence focus: It’s to collect user data and sell them targeted advertisements.

“That’s kind of one of the other reasons we wanted to build a browser, is we want to get data even outside the app to better understand you,” he said. “We plan to use all the context to build a better user profile and, maybe you know, through our discover feed we could show some ads there.”

If that all sounds familiar, it could be become Google’s Chrome browser has taken a similar approach. In fact, Comet is built on Chromium, the open-source browser base from Google. That’s not to say Perplexity wouldn’t take the chance to go straight to the source and acquire Chrome in the aftermath of Google’s recent monopoly court ruling regarding online search. In the ongoing hearings about Google and its potential sale of Chrome, Chief Business Officer Dmitry Shevelenko said he thought Perplexity would be able to continue running the browser at its current scale. Unsurprisingly, he wasn’t too keen on OpenAI acquiring the property.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/perplexity-is-building-a-browser-in-part-to-collect-customer-data-for-targeted-ads-230132091.html?src=rss

Moto Buds Loop: Motorola’s First Open-Ear Earbuds with Sound by Bose and A Swarovski Edition

Alongside the launch of its Razr flip phones, and Moto Watch Fit, Motorola has introduced the Moto Buds Loop, its first pair of open-ear earbuds. Designed to combine comfort, sound quality, and seamless integration with Motorola and Android devices, the Moto Buds Loop provide a stylish audio solution for users who want to stay aware of their surroundings while enjoying music and calls. Motorola partnered with Bose for the sound and with Swarovski for a fashion-forward design. I love the Swarovski edition — it looks more like an elegant piece of jewelry than an electronic device.

Open-Ear Design and Fit

The Moto Buds Loop use an open-ear design, allowing ambient noise to pass through so that users can remain situationally aware. This makes them suitable for commuters, athletes, or anyone who prefers not to be completely isolated from their environment. The earbuds feature a lightweight frame and a secure, ergonomic fit designed for extended wear throughout the day.

Sound and Voice Features

Equipped with 12 mm ironless drivers, the earbuds aim to deliver high-quality sound with a balance of clarity and depth. They are tuned using Sound by Bose technology, a collaboration that enhances the earbuds’ ability to render detailed music playback and dialogue. In addition, spatial sound support adds dimension to movies and games.

For calls, the Moto Buds Loop feature a dual-microphone system enhanced with CrystalTalk AI. This system reduces ambient noise while isolating the speaker’s voice, for clear communication even in noisy environments like public transportation or busy streets.

AI Integration and Smart Features

The earbuds are powered by Moto AI, which offers voice-command functionality when paired with compatible Motorola smartphones. Users can trigger actions such as checking notifications or starting a voice recording hands-free. Integration with Smart Connect also allows seamless device switching between Motorola and Lenovo devices, enabling multitasking without manual reconnection.

Build Quality and Battery

Motorola designed the Moto Buds Loop with durability in mind. The earbuds are water-repellent, providing basic resistance to rain and sweat, although they are not waterproof or meant for submersion. This makes them suitable for light workouts and outdoor use in varied weather conditions.

According to the manufacturer, the device is expected to deliver up to 8 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, with an additional 29 hours available from the charging case, for a total of up to 37 hours of use.

Design Variants

The Moto Buds Loop are offered in Pantone-curated colors, including Trekking Green and French Oak with crystals by Swarovski. The Swarovski variant blends technology with jewelry-style aesthetics, marking the beginning of a partnership between Motorola and Swarovski.

Availability

The Moto Buds Loop are set to launch in selected regions starting in Summer 2025. Availability and color options may vary by market.

 

Moto Buds Loop: Motorola’s First Open-Ear Earbuds with Sound by Bose and A Swarovski Edition

, original content from Ubergizmo. Read our Copyrights and terms of use.

Perplexity is building a browser in part to collect customer data for targeted ads

AI company Perplexity announced in February that it was building its own browser called Comet. In a recent interview with the TBPN podcast, CEO Aravind Srinivas gave some insight as to why the business appeared to be branching out from its artificial intelligence focus: It’s to collect user data and sell them targeted advertisements.

“That’s kind of one of the other reasons we wanted to build a browser, is we want to get data even outside the app to better understand you,” he said. “We plan to use all the context to build a better user profile and, maybe you know, through our discover feed we could show some ads there.”

If that all sounds familiar, it could be become Google’s Chrome browser has taken a similar approach. In fact, Comet is built on Chromium, the open-source browser base from Google. That’s not to say Perplexity wouldn’t take the chance to go straight to the source and acquire Chrome in the aftermath of Google’s recent monopoly court ruling regarding online search. In the ongoing hearings about Google and its potential sale of Chrome, Chief Business Officer Dmitry Shevelenko said he thought Perplexity would be able to continue running the browser at its current scale. Unsurprisingly, he wasn’t too keen on OpenAI acquiring the property.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/perplexity-is-building-a-browser-in-part-to-collect-customer-data-for-targeted-ads-230132091.html?src=rss

Moto Buds Loop: Motorola’s First Open-Ear Earbuds with Sound by Bose and A Swarovski Edition

Alongside the launch of its Razr flip phones, and Moto Watch Fit, Motorola has introduced the Moto Buds Loop, its first pair of open-ear earbuds. Designed to combine comfort, sound quality, and seamless integration with Motorola and Android devices, the Moto Buds Loop provide a stylish audio solution for users who want to stay aware of their surroundings while enjoying music and calls. Motorola partnered with Bose for the sound and with Swarovski for a fashion-forward design. I love the Swarovski edition — it looks more like an elegant piece of jewelry than an electronic device.

Open-Ear Design and Fit

The Moto Buds Loop use an open-ear design, allowing ambient noise to pass through so that users can remain situationally aware. This makes them suitable for commuters, athletes, or anyone who prefers not to be completely isolated from their environment. The earbuds feature a lightweight frame and a secure, ergonomic fit designed for extended wear throughout the day.

Sound and Voice Features

Equipped with 12 mm ironless drivers, the earbuds aim to deliver high-quality sound with a balance of clarity and depth. They are tuned using Sound by Bose technology, a collaboration that enhances the earbuds’ ability to render detailed music playback and dialogue. In addition, spatial sound support adds dimension to movies and games.

For calls, the Moto Buds Loop feature a dual-microphone system enhanced with CrystalTalk AI. This system reduces ambient noise while isolating the speaker’s voice, for clear communication even in noisy environments like public transportation or busy streets.

AI Integration and Smart Features

The earbuds are powered by Moto AI, which offers voice-command functionality when paired with compatible Motorola smartphones. Users can trigger actions such as checking notifications or starting a voice recording hands-free. Integration with Smart Connect also allows seamless device switching between Motorola and Lenovo devices, enabling multitasking without manual reconnection.

Build Quality and Battery

Motorola designed the Moto Buds Loop with durability in mind. The earbuds are water-repellent, providing basic resistance to rain and sweat, although they are not waterproof or meant for submersion. This makes them suitable for light workouts and outdoor use in varied weather conditions.

According to the manufacturer, the device is expected to deliver up to 8 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, with an additional 29 hours available from the charging case, for a total of up to 37 hours of use.

Design Variants

The Moto Buds Loop are offered in Pantone-curated colors, including Trekking Green and French Oak with crystals by Swarovski. The Swarovski variant blends technology with jewelry-style aesthetics, marking the beginning of a partnership between Motorola and Swarovski.

Availability

The Moto Buds Loop are set to launch in selected regions starting in Summer 2025. Availability and color options may vary by market.

 

Moto Buds Loop: Motorola’s First Open-Ear Earbuds with Sound by Bose and A Swarovski Edition

, original content from Ubergizmo. Read our Copyrights and terms of use.

Moto Buds Loop: Motorola’s First Open-Ear Earbuds with Sound by Bose and A Swarovski Edition

Alongside the launch of its Razr flip phones, and Moto Watch Fit, Motorola has introduced the Moto Buds Loop, its first pair of open-ear earbuds. Designed to combine comfort, sound quality, and seamless integration with Motorola and Android devices, the Moto Buds Loop provide a stylish audio solution for users who want to stay aware of their surroundings while enjoying music and calls. Motorola partnered with Bose for the sound and with Swarovski for a fashion-forward design. I love the Swarovski edition — it looks more like an elegant piece of jewelry than an electronic device.

Open-Ear Design and Fit

The Moto Buds Loop use an open-ear design, allowing ambient noise to pass through so that users can remain situationally aware. This makes them suitable for commuters, athletes, or anyone who prefers not to be completely isolated from their environment. The earbuds feature a lightweight frame and a secure, ergonomic fit designed for extended wear throughout the day.

Sound and Voice Features

Equipped with 12 mm ironless drivers, the earbuds aim to deliver high-quality sound with a balance of clarity and depth. They are tuned using Sound by Bose technology, a collaboration that enhances the earbuds’ ability to render detailed music playback and dialogue. In addition, spatial sound support adds dimension to movies and games.

For calls, the Moto Buds Loop feature a dual-microphone system enhanced with CrystalTalk AI. This system reduces ambient noise while isolating the speaker’s voice, for clear communication even in noisy environments like public transportation or busy streets.

AI Integration and Smart Features

The earbuds are powered by Moto AI, which offers voice-command functionality when paired with compatible Motorola smartphones. Users can trigger actions such as checking notifications or starting a voice recording hands-free. Integration with Smart Connect also allows seamless device switching between Motorola and Lenovo devices, enabling multitasking without manual reconnection.

Build Quality and Battery

Motorola designed the Moto Buds Loop with durability in mind. The earbuds are water-repellent, providing basic resistance to rain and sweat, although they are not waterproof or meant for submersion. This makes them suitable for light workouts and outdoor use in varied weather conditions.

According to the manufacturer, the device is expected to deliver up to 8 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, with an additional 29 hours available from the charging case, for a total of up to 37 hours of use.

Design Variants

The Moto Buds Loop are offered in Pantone-curated colors, including Trekking Green and French Oak with crystals by Swarovski. The Swarovski variant blends technology with jewelry-style aesthetics, marking the beginning of a partnership between Motorola and Swarovski.

Availability

The Moto Buds Loop are set to launch in selected regions starting in Summer 2025. Availability and color options may vary by market.

 

Moto Buds Loop: Motorola’s First Open-Ear Earbuds with Sound by Bose and A Swarovski Edition

, original content from Ubergizmo. Read our Copyrights and terms of use.

Moto Watch Fit: A Feature-Packed Smartwatch for Fitness With 16 Days Battery Life

Alongside the launch of its new Razr flip phones, Motorola is expanding its wearable portfolio with the Moto Watch Fit and the Moto Buds Loop.Built for Android users, the Moto Watch Fit offers a blend of fitness tracking, intelligent features, and long battery life in a slim and lightweight design.

Display and Build

The Moto Watch Fit features a 1.9-inch OLED display that provides clear visuals and vibrant colors. The screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, which resists scratches and minor impacts. With 1000 nits of brightness, the display remains legible in direct sunlight, making it convenient for outdoor activities.

The smartwatch is housed in a slim aluminum frame, offering a lightweight but durable design. It supports 22 mm interchangeable watch bands, giving users the flexibility to personalize their look. Motorola also offers a Pantone-curated Trekking Green band, though any compatible third-party band can be used with the included adapter.

Smart Features and Integration

The Moto Watch Fit works with any Android smartphone and offers better integration when paired with Motorola devices. It supports Moto AI, enabling users to generate personalized watch wallpapers using text prompts. It also allows for quick actions, such as controlling music, skipping tracks, and remotely activating the phone’s camera.

All user data is synced with the Moto Watch app, available on the Google Play Store. This app helps users track activity, review fitness metrics, and adjust settings.

Fitness and Health Tracking

The watch is designed with wellness in mind, delivering over 100 supported sport modes and tracking for heart rate, calories, steps, and more. Built-in GPS helps track running, cycling, and hiking routes without the need for a smartphone.

Additionally, sleep monitoring provides users with nightly data and insights to help improve sleep habits and overall wellness.

Durability and Battery Life

Designed for active users, the Moto Watch Fit has an IP68 rating and is rated for 5 ATM water resistance, making it suitable for swimming and outdoor activities. While the watch resists water exposure up to specified limits, it is not fully waterproof and should not be used in high-pressure water environments.

Battery life is another strength. The device delivers up to 16 days of usage on a single charge under optimal conditions, minimizing the need for frequent recharging.

Availability

The Moto Watch Fit will be available in select regions in the weeks following its launch.

 

Moto Watch Fit: A Feature-Packed Smartwatch for Fitness With 16 Days Battery Life

, original content from Ubergizmo. Read our Copyrights and terms of use.

Motorola Launches 2025 Razr Flip Phone Lineup: Razr Ultra, Razr Plus (2025), and Razr (2025) With Moto AI

Motorola launched its all-new 2025 Razr family, featuring three models: the new Razr Ultra, the refreshed Razr Plus (2025), and the updated Razr (2025). Unveiled during an event in New York City, the new Razr lineup combines an uber-stylish design, new AI features, improved performance, and refined camera systems. Look and Talk is one of the most innovative new software features, enabling speech-to-text and hands-free operation via gaze recognition.

The Razr Ultra is a brand-new addition to the family, representing the most premium foldable Motorola has ever released. Unlike previous iterations, this model did not exist before and is built on the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform, designed for users who demand top-tier specs, photography power, and luxurious finishes. The Razr Plus is a refinement of last year’s model, maintaining much of its predecessor’s feature set while delivering incremental upgrades in a few areas. Meanwhile, the Razr (2025) is Motorola’s most affordable flip phone, and it features a new processor, an improved display, and better battery performance.

From left to right: Razr Ultra Mountain Trail, Razr Ultra Cabaret, Razr Plus Mocha Mousse, Razr Lightest Sky, Razr Gibraltar Sea

Design, Materials, and Colors

For the Razr lineup, Motorola continues to focus on design excellence and a stylish look and feel that aims to appeal to fashion aficionados. Durability is also a key driver across the Razr range, with each model now featuring a titanium-reinforced hinge that is four times stronger than surgical-grade stainless steel. This new hinge is engineered for smoother folding and supports 35% more folds than previous generations. The company has also optimized the thickness of its ultra-thin glass and refined the bend radius of the hinge, reducing display creasing by 30% and delivering its smoothest Razr display to date.

Motorola partnered with Pantone to incorporate globally relevant, trend-setting colors and materials. The Razr Ultra debuts Alcantara, a luxurious material made in Italy, along with FSC-certified wood, setting it apart from other smartphones. Each model is paired with a carefully selected Pantone color, such as Scarab, Cabaret, Mountain Trail, and Rio Red, giving every device a unique and premium finish. The Razr Plus returns with textures inspired by leather in shades like Hot Pink and Mocha Mousse, including Pantone’s Color of the Year. The base Razr brings in lightweight finishes like acetate and nylon-inspired textures, available in vibrant tones like Parfait Pink, Spring Bud, Lightest Sky, and Gibraltar Sea.

However, these bold design choices do not sacrifice function. The Razr Ultra features Gorilla Glass-Ceramic on its external display, improving drop resistance. The Razr Plus and the Razr’s external displays are now protected with Gorilla Glass Victus. IP48 water and dust resistance is also standard across all models, ensuring the devices withstand real-world conditions without compromising style.

Moto AI

Moto AI plays a transformative role in Motorola’s 2025 Razr experience. It elevates the foldable smartphone from a communication device to a proactive digital companion. Moto AI is always on, accessible via a floating button, prompt bar, or even through the external display, and offers intelligent, real-time interactions. With features like Catch Me Up, Pay Attention, Remember This, and Next Move, the AI handles multitasking and productivity, whether it’s summarizing conversations, analyzing screen content, or suggesting follow-up actions.

Playlist Studio and Image Studio allow users to generate context-aware playlists and AI-generated content such as avatars, wallpapers, and graphics. Smart Connect with AI lets users mirror screens, stream media, or transfer tasks across Motorola and compatible devices with a simple command. On the Razr Ultra, users benefit from a dedicated AI Key and hands-free use in tent or stand mode.

Look and Talk, is a new, impressive, and uber-practical feature exclusive to the Razr Ultra. Designed to work only in tent mode, it offers users a hands-free way to interact with Moto AI via gaze unlock, voice commands, and voice-to-text technology.

The AI engine runs on-device, enabling fast performance and privacy without needing constant cloud access. Integration with Google’s Gemini AI also enables advanced creative tasks and voice-driven productivity features.

.

Razr Ultra: Motorola’s Ultimate Flip Phone Flagship

The Razr Ultra is Motorola’s most ambitious foldable yet. It’s equipped with a 7.0-inch LTPO AMOLED display that supports a 165Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Pantone Validation. The bezels are 20% slimmer than those of its predecessor. The external 4.0-inch screen delivers a 3000-nit peak brightness.

Under the hood, the Snapdragon 8 Elite ensures best-in-class performance. Paired with 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB or 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage, the Razr Ultra delivers smooth multitasking and advanced on-device AI. A 4700mAh battery supports 68W wired, 30W wireless, and 5W reverse wireless charging.

The camera system includes a triple 50MP setup: a primary sensor with Ultra Pixel and OIS, a 122-degree ultra-wide/macro lens, and a 50MP front camera with f/2.0 aperture. Video capabilities include 8K at 30 fps, 4K at 60 fps, Dolby Vision, and slow-motion. Moto AI enhances shots with Action Shot, Group Shot, Signature Style, and Air Gesture controls.

Razr Plus 2025: A Few Refreshments Over the Previous Model

The Motorola Razr Plus (2025) builds on the success of its 2024 predecessor. It keeps the 6.9-inch LTPO pOLED internal screen and 4.0-inch external panel, now boosted to 3000 nits. The external display now features Gorilla Glass Victus and allows for expanded widget and app panels.

The 2025 model retains the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, adds UFS 4.0 storage, and a 4000mAh battery with 45W wired, 15W wireless, and now 5W reverse wireless charging. The dual 50MP cameras remain, but software upgrades include Signature Style, Group Shot, Smart Shutter, and Auto Night Vision. The front shooter gets a 32MP sensor with an f/2.4 aperture.

Moto AI also brings voice-activated commands, intelligent screen awareness, and contextual app suggestions.

Razr: Brighter Display, Improved Performance, and Better Durability In A $700 Flip Package

For the Razr (2025), Motorola introduces key updates while keeping it affordable. The 3.6-inch external display now uses an LTPS panel, supports Ultra HDR, 2400 nits brightness, adaptive refresh up to 90Hz, and Gorilla Glass Victus. The 6.9-inch main display includes 3000 nits brightness, 120% DCI-P3, LTPO, and high touch sampling.

It runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 7400X, with 8GB LPDDR4X RAM and 256GB UFS 2.2 storage. The battery capacity increases to 4500mAh, supporting 30W wired and 15W wireless charging. The 50MP main camera with OIS and a 13MP ultrawide 120° lens are powered by Moto AI features like Action Shot, Group Shot, Signature Style, and more. The front camera, located on top of the internal main screen, is the same as the one on the Razr Plus, featuring a 32MP sensor and a f/2.4 aperture.

Expanding the Ecosystem: Moto Buds and Watch Fit

Alongside the Razr devices, Motorola introduced new lifestyle accessories. The Moto Buds Loop are open-ear earbuds co-developed with Bose, with spatial sound, water resistance, and all-day wear. A fashionable Swarovski edition is also available.

The Moto Watch Fit is a lightweight smartwatch with a 1.9-inch OLED display, heart rate tracking, built-in GPS, and up to 16 days of battery life.

Pricing and Availability

Pre-orders begin May 7 in the U.S., with availability on May 15. Prices: $1,299.99 for Razr Ultra, $999.99 for Razr Plus, and $699.99 for Razr (2025). In Canada, pre-orders open May 7 and sales start June 3. Carriers include AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and others.

Colors:

  • Razr Ultra: PANTONE Rio Red, Scarab, Mountain Trail, Cabaret
  • Razr Plus: PANTONE Mocha Mousse, Midnight Blue, Hot Pink
  • Razr: PANTONE Spring Bud, Gibraltar Sea, Parfait Pink, Lightest Sky

AT&T will offer the Razr Plus (2025) for $5.99/month starting July 24, no trade-in required. Cricket Wireless will offer the Razr (2025) for $199.99 starting July 25.

Verizon will offer the Razr (2025) for $16.67/month over 36 months (0% APR) starting May 15, or $0/month with trade-in of any device on a myPlan line, plus a 3-year price lock. Also available on Verizon prepaid brands like Straight Talk, Visible, Total Wireless, and Verizon Prepaid.

 

FeatureRazr Ultra 2025Razr Plus 2025Razr 2025
Main Display7.0″ LTPO AMOLED, 165Hz, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, 3000 nits6.9″ LTPO pOLED, 165Hz, HDR10+, 3000 nits6.9″ FHD+ pOLED, 120Hz, HDR10+, 3000 nits
External Display4.0″ pOLED, 165Hz, 3000 nits, Gorilla Glass Ceramic4.0″  pOLED, 165 Hz, 3000 nits, Gorilla Glass Victus3.6″ pOLED, 90Hz, 2400 nits, Gorilla Glass Victus
ProcessorSnapdragon 8 EliteSnapdragon 8s Gen 3MediaTek Dimensity 7400X
RAMUp to 16GB LPDDR5X12GB LPDDR5X8GB LPDDR4X
Storage512GB or 1TB UFS 4.0256GB UFS 4.0256GB UFS 2.2
Battery4700 mAh4000 mAh4500 mAh
Charging (Wired/Wireless/Reverse)68W / 30W / 5W45W / 15W / 5W30W / 15W / No reverse
Main Camera50MP main, OIS, Ultra Pixel50MP main, OIS50MP main, OIS, PDAF
Ultrawide Camera50MP ultra-wide, 122°50MP telephoto, 2x optical zoom13MP ultra-wide, 120°
Front Camera50MP32MP32MP
Video Capture Main8K@30 fps 4K@60fps, Dolby Vision, Slow-mo (240fps/120fps)4K@30/60fps, FHD slow-mo4K@30/60fps, FHD@120fps, HD@240fps
Water/Dust ResistanceIP48IP48IP48
Build FeaturesTitanium hinge, Alcantara, Wood, Pantone colorsTitanium hinge, Leather finish, Pantone colorsAcetate/Nylon finish, Pantone colors
SpeakersDual Stereo, Dolby Atmos, 3 micsDual Stereo, Dolby Atmos, 3 micsDual Stereo, Dolby Atmos, 3 mics
OS / AI FeaturesMoto AI, AI Key, Look and Talk, Gemini AI, AI widgets,Moto AI, AI Key, AI widgets,Moto AI, AI Key, AI widgets,

Motorola Launches 2025 Razr Flip Phone Lineup: Razr Ultra, Razr Plus (2025), and Razr (2025) With Moto AI

, original content from Ubergizmo. Read our Copyrights and terms of use.

The Moto Buds Loop are open-ear earbuds you wear like jewelry

As part of the launch of its new “Moto Things” line of accessories, Motorola is introducing the Moto Buds Loop, the company’s first take on wireless open-ear earbuds. Rather than completely cover your ear, the Moto Buds Loops cuff the outside, almost like a piercing, blocking out less of the world around you, while still letting you hear your music.

The Moto Buds Loop are, as their name suggests, large loop-shaped earbuds that come in either a dark “Trekking Green” or a light (and fairly gaudy) “French Oak with crystals by Swarovski.” Motorola says the earbuds have 12mm drivers and “Sound by Bose technology,” which means they’re tuned for clarity and balance, and also support features like spatial audio for immersive listening. If you’re worried about call quality, the Moto Buds Loop use a combination of AI and dual-microphones on the earbuds to minimize background noise. When you need to connect the earbuds to other devices, Motorola’s Smart Connect feature can quickly swap Bluetooth connections between Motorola and Lenovo devices.

A photo of two models wearing the Moto Buds Loop.
Motorola

The Moto Buds Loop earbuds have eight hours of battery life, and their charging case comes with an additional 37 hours, likely covering you for multiple days of use. Motorola also says the Moto Buds Loop are “water-repellant,” but the lack of any kind of official IP rating suggests you might not want to test that.

Open-ear earbuds are definitely less niche than they used to be, with Sony, Bose, JLab and Nothing offering their own take on the concept. That Bose tech is featured in Motorola’s earbuds isn’t surprising, either. Both companies are using a similar clip-on design to keep the earbuds over your ears.

If you’re interested in the Moto Buds Loop, you’ll have to wait for now. Motorola hasn’t shared a specific price or release date for the wireless earbuds, other than the fact they’ll be available “in the coming months.”

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/headphones/the-moto-buds-loop-are-open-ear-earbuds-you-wear-like-jewelry-160056857.html?src=rss

Nintendo warns its own preorder invites may arrive after Switch 2 launch

If you were hoping to avoid the chaos that has accompanied the Switch 2 launch by pre-ordering directly from Nintendo, that may not make it arrive any faster. In an update on its website, Nintendo says that it’s seeing “very high demand” for the console, so “your invitation email may arrive after the Nintendo Switch 2 launch” set for June 5th. That may delay the shipment until after that date as well, the company said. 

Nintendo opened the ability to “register your interest” for purchasing a Switch 2 earlier in Japan and a staggering 2.2 million people applied to pre-order the console. It’s now making the same offer to North American users and had initially promised to send out the first batch of pre-order invitations on May 8th. For at least some people, that may now slip nearly a month or more.

Nintendo suggested visiting its launch partners, but as we’ve seen so far, that process has also been challenging. So far, Amazon doesn’t even have an order page for the Switch 2 and customers are having trouble ordering from other retailers like Walmart, Target and Best Buy. At this point, it feels pretty unlikely that you’re going to find one today, but don’t give up hope.

Should you wish to apply to pre-order, beware that Nintendo hasn’t made the process easy, likely to dissuade scalpers. You must have a purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership yourself, have had any paid Nintendo Switch Online membership for at least 12 months, have opted in to share gameplay data and have at least 50 total gameplay hours. 

Nintendo delayed the original launch date from April 9 to April 24 due to concerns over Trump’s tariffs. It remains to be seen whether Nintendo underestimated Switch 2 demand in other territories like the US as much as it did for Japan — but given the current frenzy, that seems likely. To see full details on how to pre-order, check Engadget’s article with all the details

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/nintendo-warns-its-own-preorder-invites-may-arrive-after-switch-2-launch-100048014.html?src=rss