Apple’s new wireless headphones could boost other brands

Global Business

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The release of a new Apple product is always watched closely by the tech sector but the launch of the iPhone 7 was of particular interest to those in the headphone industry.

The new phone has ditched the traditional headphone jack, encouraging customers to go wireless. It’s a move that could provide an opportunity for those looking to cash in on cutting the cord.

CCTV America’s William Denselow reports from New York.Follow William Denselow on Twitter @willdenze

The headphone cord, a sight Apple believes will soon become a thing of the past. And for many working in the headphone industry, it’s music to their ears.

Audio experts said Bluetooth technology commonly used in wireless headphones is reliable but has its drawbacks.

Beyond issues of battery life, the sound can be compressed, affecting quality.

For those looking to make a switch to wireless headphones there’s also a cost factor to be considered. These are the V-Moda Crossfade headphones and for the wired version they’re costing you in the region of $270. But for the wireless version they’re costing you about $30 more.

Using an adapter, wired headphones can still be used on the new iPhone 7. But many here in New York aren’t happy Apple made the switch.

For the last two years Master and Dynamic has been making headphones in New York City.

Despite the move from Apple they believe there’s still room in the market for wired headphones.

“I think there’s still a customer base and a clientele that wants it and you see it if you look at what’s gone on with vinyl and turntables that resurgence of analog so it may be gone but it’s not forgotten,” Master and Dynamic Founder and CEO, Jonathan Levine said.

Apple’s CEO Tim Cook believes wireless is the way of the future, but for now, that message appears to be falling on some deaf ears.


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