Beats Unveils Powerbeats Pro 2: A Leap Forward in Fitness Audio Technology

Beats by Dre releases Powerbeats Pro 2
Powerbeats Pro. Image by ifeelstock/Depositphotos

Beats, a subsidiary of Apple, has introduced the Powerbeats Pro 2, marking a significant advancement in their lineup of fitness-oriented earbuds. Nearly six years after the original Powerbeats Pro, the new model offers enhanced features tailored for athletes and active users.

Smaller Size and Weight

The Powerbeats Pro 2 showcases a 20% reduction in size and weight compared to their predecessors, achieved through the use of a nickel-titanium alloy. This material choice enhances flexibility and comfort, ensuring a secure fit during rigorous activities. The earbuds are available in four colors: Jet Black, Quick Sand, Hyper Purple, and Electric Orange.

Integrated Heart Rate Monitoring

According to CNET, a standout feature of the Powerbeats Pro 2 is the integrated heart rate monitoring. Each earbud is equipped with LED optical sensors that provide real-time heart rate data, a capability previously exclusive to devices like the Apple Watch. This feature is compatible with several fitness applications, including Peloton, Runna, Nike Run Club, Open, Slopes, Ladder, and YaoYao. Notably, Strava is not among the supported apps at launch.

H2 Chip

The earbuds are powered by Apple’s H2 chip, delivering improved sound quality with dynamic, detailed audio. They feature active noise cancellation (ANC) and a transparency mode, allowing users to immerse themselves in their surroundings when necessary. Adaptive EQ technology automatically adjusts the audio to match the user’s ear shape and fit, enhancing the listening experience.

Battery life has been significantly improved, offering up to 10 hours of playback with ANC on, and up to 45 hours total with the charging case. The case is 33% smaller than its predecessor and supports wireless charging via Qi, as well as USB-C connectivity.

Star-Studded Campaign

To boost the product’s profile, Beats has enlisted a star-studded lineup for the Powerbeats Pro 2 launch campaign, including iconic athletes LeBron James, Lionel Messi, and Shohei Ohtani. Each of these global sports superstars highlights the earbuds’ performance and versatility, with a particular focus on their fitness-related features. The campaign aims to resonate with consumers who are looking for high-performance gear that suits both their athletic and everyday needs. The prominent figures not only endorse the product but are featured engaging with the earbuds during intense workouts and training sessions.

“We put a lot of pressure on ourselves to make sure this campaign is truly iconic, something that lives up to the product,” Beats CMO Chris Thorne told The Hollywood Reporter. “At Beats, we’re always aiming to do something unexpected, pushing the boundaries of what’s been done, even in marketing. All three of those guys have different shoe company deals. How many brands could actually bring them together like this? I believe Beats is one of the few that could make it happen. I think it’s incredible that we were able to pull it off.”

According to Yahoo! Finance, the Powerbeats Pro 2 are priced at $249.99 and are available for purchase through Beats’ official website and authorized retailers. They are compatible with both iOS and Android devices, ensuring broad accessibility for users across different platforms.

With the Powerbeats Pro 2, Beats by Dre continues to innovate in the fitness audio sector, offering a blend of advanced technology, comfort, and performance to meet the needs of active users.