Together with a large number of products on display this CES 2018, Sony confirmed its support for Google Assistant with updates to its older headphones.
The Japanese electronics company flaunts new products integrated with the search company's digital voice assistant. These are new additions to its Bluetooth audio products. There are a total of seven new models, although only a few were on hand during the show for everyone to try out.
However, what seems surprising is the firm's decision to revisit and update some of its older models to work with Google Assistant.
Old Dogs With New Tricks
There appear to be five models from their previous lineup that are slated to receive an update to enable the voice assistant feature. All of the listed products have digital noise canceling and NFC connectivity.
The WF-1000X model is a pair of truly wireless stereo earbuds that come with a carrying case that doubles as a portable charger.
The WI-1000X is a neckband model with integrated controls and a vibration function for calls and more.
The WH-1000XM2 features touch-controls and an over-the-ear design with 30-hour usage time per charge.
The WH-CH700N is an over-the-ear model with a 35-hour battery life and a swivel design for comfort.
The WH-H900N is a collection of headphones with different colors to match its user's tastes and a 28-hour endurance in between charges.
The New Generation
To showcase its support for Google Assistant, Sony also prepared three new Bluetooth headphones. One model is launching in April while the remaining two will be arriving later in June.
The WF-SP700N looks like a successor to the WF-1000X and is another truly-wireless pair of earbuds. Its IP4X-rated protection keeps it safe from rain, sweat, and accidental splashes.
According to the manufacturer, users can tweak its noise cancellation options with the Ambient Mode option. Usage time is rated at three hours. However, users can extend its usage via the charging case included. Colors available are pink, black, yellow, and white with a retail price of $179.99
The next product is called the WI-SP600N and features a pair of earbuds with an over-the-neck design. Its controls are located just below the left bud. It flaunts a longer usage time with 6 hours and comes in the same colors as its more high-end sibling. Sony will sell it for $149.99
The last and cheapest model of the trio is the WI-SP500. This $79.99 device takes the over-the-neck design but positions its controls on the earbuds. Instead of silicone hooks that keep other Bluetooth units in place, this model relies on ergonomically-designed buds that use textured dimples to keep it in place.
All of these models can wirelessly pair with compatible devices via NFC. Digital noise cancellation is only available for the WF-SP700N and WI-SP600N. Sony notes that all three are Google Assistant compatible.
