Powerbeats Pro 2 are official

Update: 2025-02-11

Digest

The podcast begins by detailing the critical security vulnerability addressed in iOS 18.3.1, specifically a flaw in accessibility features allowing bypass of USB restricted mode. It then transitions to a discussion of future Apple hardware, focusing on the anticipated release of OLED MacBook Pro models in 2026, contrasting their expected superior display technology with the current mini-LED technology. A delay for the OLED MacBook Air is also mentioned. The main focus then shifts to a comprehensive review of the Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds. This review highlights the inclusion of the H2 chip, resulting in improved features such as active noise cancellation, transparency mode, and enhanced battery life. The improved design, smaller charging case, and integrated heart rate monitoring are also discussed, along with the limitations of its integration with Apple Fitness+ (heart rate data is recorded but not displayed live during workouts).

Outlines

00:00:00

iOS 18.3.1 Security Update & Upcoming Apple Hardware

This segment covers the critical security patch in iOS 18.3.1 addressing a vulnerability allowing bypass of USB restricted mode, and previews the anticipated 2026 release of OLED MacBook Pro models, contrasting them with current mini-LED technology and noting a delay for the OLED MacBook Air.

00:03:55

Powerbeats Pro 2 In-Depth Review

A detailed review of the Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds, focusing on features enabled by the H2 chip, including active noise cancellation, transparency mode, improved design, smaller charging case, and integrated heart rate monitoring. The review also addresses the earbuds' integration (or lack thereof) with Apple Fitness+.

Keywords

iOS 18.3.1

Critical security update patching a vulnerability allowing bypass of USB restricted mode.

OLED MacBook Pro

Future MacBook Pro models with OLED displays, launching in 2026.

Powerbeats Pro 2

Second-generation earbuds featuring the H2 chip, active noise cancellation, transparency mode, and integrated heart rate monitoring.

H2 Chip

Apple's advanced chip technology enabling low latency audio and improved battery life.

USB Restricted Mode

iPhone/iPad security feature requiring a password for USB connections.

Mini-LED

Display technology used in current MacBook Pros.

Active Noise Cancellation

Feature of Powerbeats Pro 2 reducing ambient sound.

Transparency Mode

Feature of Powerbeats Pro 2 allowing ambient sound to be heard.

Q&A

What security vulnerability was addressed in iOS 18.3.1?
A vulnerability in accessibility features allowed attackers to bypass USB restricted mode and access user data.
When are OLED MacBook Pro models expected to launch?
Supply chain reports suggest a 2026 launch.
What are the key features of the new Powerbeats Pro 2?
The H2 chip, active noise cancellation, transparency mode, improved design, and integrated heart rate monitoring.
Does the Powerbeats Pro 2 heart rate monitoring integrate with Apple Fitness+?
Heart rate data is recorded and viewable in the Health app and Apple Fitness+ post-workout summary, but not displayed live during workouts.

Show Notes

Listen to a recap of the top stories of the day from 9to5Mac. 9to5Mac Daily is available on iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed for Overcast and other podcast players.

Sponsored by Roborock: Roborock takes care of the cleaning, so you can do more of what you love. This February, save $200 on the Saros10 and Saros10R vacuums during the Open Sale—12.5% OFF from February 10th to 16th. Don’t miss out!

</figure>

New episodes of 9to5Mac Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they’re available.

Stories discussed in this episode: