Beats unveiled the Beats 360 headphones, featuring extensive customization options with over 256 combinations and targeting active lifestyles with breathable materials and secure fit. Beats President Oliver Schusser discussed the product's development, Apple's relationship with Beats, and how the headphones balance optimization for both iOS and Android platforms while coexisting with Apple's AirPods line.
The Beats 360 are modular over-ear headphones priced at $350, featuring swappable earcup and headband cushions, IPX4 water resistance, and strong noise cancellation and voice-call performance. They offer top-tier sound quality and are positioned as a sports-oriented alternative to AirPods Max, though they lack wired audio and wear-detection sensors.
Scott Jenson and Michael DiTullo argue for tactile analog controls over touchscreens on devices like AirPods cases. They propose that focusing on the most frequent user actions—volume adjustment, track navigation, and play/pause—enables intuitive physical buttons with distinct functions rather than multi-tap gestures on digital screens.