Tag Archives: Bluetooth LE

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Will Not Have a Bluetooth S Pen Afterall?

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultrah has arrived with a notable change to its signature accessory: the S Pen. While the S Pen remains a core part of the Ultra experience, it notably lacks Bluetooth connectivity, a feature present in previous models. The decision to remove Bluetooth LE connectivity has become a little bit of a controversial one with users going as far as to start a petition for it to return.

S25 Ultra S Pen 1

The S Pen has evolved significantly since its introduction. Initially, it served primarily as a tool for writing and drawing on the device’s screen. Over time, Samsung added Bluetooth functionality, enabling features like remote camera control, air gestures, and more precise input. These additions enhanced the S Pen’s utility, transforming it from a simple stylus into a versatile input device. However, with the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Samsung has opted to remove Bluetooth LE from the S Pen.

This change means that users lose access to the Bluetooth-powered features they may have become accustomed to. Remote camera control, which allowed users to trigger the camera shutter with a click of the S Pen button, is no longer available. Air gestures, which provide a way to navigate the device or control media playback with movements of the S Pen, are also absent. These omissions have raised concerns among users who value these functionalities.

While no official statement has been released explaining the change, several theories have emerged. Some speculate that it could be related to cost-cutting measures, while others suggest it might be due to technical limitations or a desire to streamline the S Pen’s functionality. That said, some tech creators like Joshua Vergara have noted that they were informed that the feature was used by less than 1% of Ultra users.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Launch 34

Earlier last month, a post highlighting the S Pen was published on Samsung’s official “Insights” blog which included a mention of the elusive Bluetooth LE enable S Pen which will be sold separately. However, Samsung has since clarified in a statement to Android Authority that no such accessory will be available for the new S25 Ultra. The company has gone as far as removing the portion that mentioned the Bluetooth LE-enabled S Pen from the article.

The reaction from Samsung fans has been varied. Some users have expressed disappointment, citing the loss of features they found useful. Others have been more accepting, noting that the core writing and drawing functionalities of the S Pen remain intact. That said, a passionate group of S Pen users have created a petition for the return of the Bluetooth features to the S Pen.

S25 Ultra S Pen 2

The removal of Bluetooth from the S Pen raises questions about the future direction of this accessory. Is Samsung simplifying the S Pen to focus on its core function as a writing and drawing tool? Or is this a temporary change that might be reversed in future iterations? The answers to these questions will likely depend on user feedback and how Samsung chooses to address the concerns that have been raised.

Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 and Elite 8 Active Gen 2: Feature-Packed True Wireless Earbuds with Innovative LE Audio Smart Case

Jabra is no stranger to audio products; in fact, the company may have the most impressive track record and catalogue of audio devices in the market. That said, the company has unveiled the next generation of its popular Elite series – the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 and Elite 8 Active Gen 2. These earbuds boast innovative features designed to elevate the user experience, including the world’s first LE Audio smart case, enhanced sound quality, and improved noise cancellation.

The LE Audio Smart Case: A Game Changer for Connectivity

The most striking innovation lies in the accompanying charging cases. These cases integrate LE Audio, a next-generation Bluetooth standard promising significant improvements in audio quality, power efficiency, and connection stability. While the earbuds themselves utilize standard Bluetooth 5.2, the LE Audio smart case acts as a wireless transmitter for connected devices.

jabra elite 10 g2 bluetooth LE
Source: Jabra

The new LE Audio smart case will allow travellers to use their Jabra Elite earbuds by simply plugging them in. Traditionally, you’d need a separate adapter to connect your earbuds to the aeroplane’s entertainment system. The case then wirelessly transmits the audio stream to your earbuds in LE Audio format, potentially offering improved sound quality and lower latency compared to traditional Bluetooth connections. This functionality extends beyond aeroplanes, allowing the case to act as an LE Audio transmitter for any device with a 3.5mm headphone jack or USB-C port.

Enhanced Audio & More Personality

Jabra has also equipped both the Elite 10 Gen 2 and Elite 8 Active Gen 2 with improved Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology. This enhanced ANC promises to effectively block out unwanted background noise, creating a more immersive listening experience. Additionally, Jabra has partnered with Dolby to deliver Dolby Audio support. This collaboration aims to provide a richer and more nuanced soundscape, potentially elevating the audio quality for music, movies, and calls.

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(Source: Jabra) The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2

While the overall design language remains largely unchanged, Jabra has introduced new colour options for both models, allowing users to express their personal style. The Elite 10 Gen 2 retains its sleek, bud-style design, while the Elite 8 Active Gen 2 maintains its secure, in-ear fit ideal for active lifestyles.

Better Durability, Longer Battery

Jabra prioritizes user experience with extended battery life. The earbuds themselves last up to 7 hours on a single charge, with the case providing an additional 25 hours of playback time. Additionally, the earbuds support fast charging for quick power top-ups when needed.

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(Source: Jabra) The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2

The Elite 8 Active Gen 2 retains its IP57 water resistance rating, making it ideal for workouts or running in the rain. Both models offer intuitive touch controls for music playback, call management, and voice assistant activation.

Jabra has also improved call performance in the Elite 8 Active Gen 2. This upgrade includes six microphones, wind-protecting mesh, and a noise-cancellation algorithm specifically designed to enhance call clarity in various environments.

Pricing & Availability

The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 and Elite 8 Active Gen 2 are expected to be available globally from mid-June 2024. Pricing information varies by region, but here’s a general breakdown:

  • Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2: USD$280 (approximately RM1,318.11)
  • Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2: USD$230 (approximately RM1,082.73)