Huawei is making an ambitious entry into the mid-range wireless headphone segment. The company has introduced the next-generation FreeBuds 7i in China. The device stands out with its advanced noise cancellation and spatial audio features. The headphones are available in the Chinese market for $84.
Huawei FreeBuds 7i unveiled
The FreeBuds 7i features Huawei’s Intelligent Dynamic Noise Cancellation (ANC) 4.0 technology. Its triple-microphone and 8 mm² wide air channel design reduce external noise by up to 28 dB. The ANC system also reduces latency by 50 percent and adapts to environmental changes in less than half a second.
The headphones feature a bone conduction microphone to enhance call quality. This AI-powered technology blocks out up to 90 dB of background noise and wind noise. The device, powered by 11 mm quad-magnet dynamic drivers, delivers clear vocals and detailed sound.
Users can personalize their experience with 10-band EQ settings and preset sound profiles. Additionally, spatial audio tracks head movements, creating a 360-degree surround sound effect.
FreeBuds 7i are compatible with Huawei’s Xiaoyi voice assistant. Users can answer and reject calls with gestures like head nods, and manage volume, ANC mode, and music settings with touch controls.
The headphones use Bluetooth 5.4 technology and support codecs such as SBC, AAC, LDAC, and L2HC 2.0. However, LHDC and aptX support are not available. Fast pairing is available on devices running EMUI 10.1 and above, and multi-device connection is available on devices running HarmonyOS 3.0 and above.
Battery life is 8 hours with ANC off and 5 hours with it on. This lifespan extends to 35 hours with ANC off and 20 hours with it on. With fast charging support, a 10-minute charge provides 4 hours of use. Each earbud weighs 5.4 grams, and the charging case weighs 36.5 grams. The device is also IP54 certified, providing protection against dust and light water splashes.
