The introduction of both the iPhone 7 and the iPhone 7 Plus took us all by storm, especially after seeing that both gadgets no longer spot the 3.5 mm headphone jack that we’re all used to. Most took it as a bold move by the guys at Apple in trying to move us forward from technology that pundits such as Jailbreak’s Chief Marketing Officer, Rene Oehlerking, termed as the same type that Sony came up with when they introduced the Walkman over 50 years ago.
All in all, these bespoke iPhone models don’t entirely force everyone who buys those handsets to adapt to the new way of things. In case you’re not feeling as ready as they’d hope you would be, there’s still the lightning adapter included that you can use to connect your usual headphones through your iPhone. Walking around with it might not be as comfortable or convenient, but oh well, this is what users will have to contend with if they don’t want to lose those top of the range headsets that they might’ve spent a fortune on.
On the other side of the divide, we have users who are OK with going wireless, but Apple’s Airpods don’t really do the trick for them. If you happen to fall under this category, then we have five options listed below that all sure to integrate well with your iPhone 7, with some models even known to be fully compatible with a selection of Android devices.
1. BOSE Quietcomfort 35
First up on our list are the critically acclaimed BOSE QC35 headsets. These promise to shut out all the noise around you so that you’ll turn your complete attention to your music.
They’re actually a wireless version of their predecessor, the Bose QuietComfort 25, but they come slightly lighter, and with a better fit. On the right earcup you’ll find well placed controls responsible for adjusting the volume, tracking, as well as alternating between play & pause. You’ll also be able to enjoy your music for a clean 20 hrs before you start getting any warnings of the battery running out.
The dual microphone embedded in the headset makes for crystal clear quality calls, even when you’re stuck in a windy situation. This pair is also guaranteed to connect seamlessly with your iPhone, and provide great service whether you’re listening to your favorite playlist, or making a few calls on the go.
2. Beats Solo 3
Next up is Apple’s very own Beats Solo 3 headset; an improved version of their Beats Solo 2 release. This new release comes with an Apple W1 audio chip for even more seamless connectivity, and a super battery that churns out up to 40 hrs of music play. The pairing process can be initiated by holding down the power key on the headphones, and confirming the same on your iPhone.
The Beats Solo 3’s build has a bit of a plastic feel, but don’t let this misguide you into doubting its quality. The well mastered bass that’s a characteristic of most Beats by Dre equipment still shines through in this pair, without dimming down any other aspects of sound quality that most audiophiles would look forward to.
An added plus is the ability to activate Siri while you have your headphones on. This means you can use your voice to turn up the volume, or initiate any of the other playback related functions.
3. LG Pro HBS 760
Perhaps you prefer having your headset rest easy around your neck so that you can avoid having to entangle them whenever they’re not in use. If this sounds like your story, then the LG Pro HBS 760 is a brilliant option to consider.
With its set of controls well placed for easy accessibility, users will have no trouble going through the power button, volume controls or scrolling back and forth to find their favorite tracks. This set comes with a choice of three ear tips for you to choose from, and a built-in microphone that allows very little to tarnish the quality of your voice call.
Paired with an iPhone, they offer as much as 11 hours of playback, or close to 16 hours of talk time before you’ll have to put them down for a recharge.
4. Jaybird X3 Sport
Keeping up that tune during your workout is important for maintaining a steady momentum & also staying motivated to complete your reps, even with your body pleading with you to tap out. For all the fitness lovers that value their music just as much, the Jaybird X3 Sport is a great alternative to keep their hearts pumping to the rhythm of the beat.
The Jaybird X3’s form factor allows it to stay out of your way during all types of workouts, and the well designed earhooks make sure that they stay well in place. The manufacturers also do well to build in an eight-hour battery that can get recharged through a sealed Micro USB port.
5. BOHM S10 Wireless Earbuds
Closing up our list is an alternative that we’d say lies between earphones and headphones, and this would be the BOHM S10 wireless earbuds. As you see, all there is to it is a set of earbuds that are also wirelessly connected to each other.
They’re easily stored in a magnetic charging case that powers them up for re-use, with a single charge providing up to 9 hours of listening time. Both earbuds also have controls for changing the volume and tracking, with only one of the pair having a microphone to facilitate phone calls.
Fitness enthusiasts will be happy to hear that the whole package is sweat proof, but then the quality of sound is not something you’d compare to that of an over-the-ear alternative. Overall, the BOHM S10 wireless earbuds does a lot to offer an insight into what we should expect as the future of portable wireless audio equipment.
(all images courtesy of Amazon)
