Sony launched the LinkBuds S which feature a more conventional design and higher price tag.
The arrival of the LinkBuds earbuds doesn't mean that Sony has abandoned its WF-1000 series, which is its line of flagship earbuds. Although the WF-1000XM4 earbuds are yet to get a successor and there are no reports yet of one coming, it is likely Sony decided to focus on the LinkBuds series this year instead. So fans of the WF-1000 series can expect a new model in 2023.
The Sony LinkBuds Teams Certified Version or receive incoming Teams calls, turn on/off the mute function, and activate the Raise Hand function.
More Expensive Than The Standard Variant
The LinkBuds UC can also be used with a smartphone via Bluetooth while still connected to a PC. Considering the standard LinkBuds don't have for Bluetooth Multipoint, this is a welcome addition. Save for these differences, the rest of the features are the same. The earbuds have an IPX4 water resistance rating, Bluetooth 5.2, and Sony's DSEE technology. They also have Wide Area Tap which allows s control the earbuds by tapping the area around the ears, unlike other earbuds that s need to touch to operate.
Microsoft and Sony are targeting professionals with these earbuds, specifically those who use Teams and are willing to go the extra mile by purchasing Teams-certified earbuds. However, that's likely to be a very small demographic. At $249.99, the LinkBuds UC are more expensive than the standard variant that is sold for $179.99. Also, unlike the standard Linkbuds which can be bought in White or Gray, the Teams Edition can only be purchased in Gray. Sony isn't the only brand selling Teams-certified earbuds, with Logitech offering the more expensive Zone True Wireless that are priced at $299.
Source: Sony