The Future of Smart Devices: Headphones and Robots Redefining Daily Life

June 10, 2025, 3:44 pm
36kr
36kr
IndustryInternetMediaNewsPlatformScience
Location: China, Beijing
Employees: 501-1000
Founded date: 2011
In the world of technology, innovation is the heartbeat. Two companies, Anker’s Soundcore and Joyin, are leading the charge, reshaping how we interact with our devices. They are not just creating products; they are crafting experiences that blend seamlessly into our lives.

Anker’s Soundcore is on a mission to redefine headphones. At the Microsoft Build 2025 conference, they unveiled the AeroFit 2, a groundbreaking open-ear Bluetooth headphone. This isn’t just about music anymore. It’s about communication. With real-time multilingual translation, these headphones are transforming how we connect. Imagine wearing a device that not only plays your favorite tunes but also helps you converse in different languages. It’s like having a personal translator in your ear.

But Soundcore isn’t stopping there. They’ve partnered with Microsoft to develop smart headphones with generative voice capabilities. This collaboration is a bold step into the future of intelligent voice terminals. The goal? To turn headphones into personal assistants. Picture this: your headphones managing your schedule, navigating routes, and summarizing meetings. It’s a leap from mere audio playback to a multifunctional tool that enhances daily life.

The numbers tell a compelling story. In 2024, Soundcore’s smart audio and video segment generated nearly $800 million in revenue, a staggering 32.84% increase from the previous year. This growth is no accident. Soundcore has positioned itself as a leader in the wireless headphone market, boasting over 52 million users worldwide. They’ve carved out a niche that goes beyond sound quality and noise cancellation. They are pioneering AI-powered voice interaction.

The technology behind Soundcore is impressive. With 741 patents, they have a strong foundation in audio technology. Their proprietary coaxial dual-driver design delivers a balanced sound profile, while adaptive noise cancellation enhances performance. They’ve tackled the challenges of open-ear headphones, ensuring comfort and sound quality. Lightweight materials and custom tuning make these headphones a joy to wear.

As the demand for specialized audio devices grows, Soundcore is responding with scenario-based product design. Each product is tailored to specific needs. The AeroFit 2 is designed for translation, while the Sleep A20 monitors sleep patterns. The AeroClip caters to sports enthusiasts. This strategic approach sets Soundcore apart in a crowded market.

Meanwhile, Joyin is taking a different approach. Founded by Guo Renjie, Joyin aims to bring emotionally aware robots into our homes. In just six months, they’ve secured significant funding and are ready to launch their first product: a compact, multipurpose home robot. Guo’s vision is clear: make advanced technology accessible to everyday users.

The robotics landscape is buzzing with potential. Companies like Unitree Robotics and Leju Robot are making strides, but Joyin is focused on practical applications. Guo emphasizes the importance of building consumer products that solve real-life problems. The goal is to create robots that feel like part of the family, not just machines.

Joyin’s first two products, Z-Bot and W-Bot, reflect this vision. Z-Bot is a humanoid-style robot designed for indoor navigation, while W-Bot is built for outdoor use. These robots are not just about functionality; they are about emotional connection. Guo believes that a robot’s design should resonate with users on a personal level. It’s about creating a presence that feels comforting.

The journey to productization hasn’t been easy. Joyin initially struggled with defining use cases. Instead of hypothesizing, they turned to real household needs. They interviewed users and reflected on daily routines. This user-centric approach led to a clearer design goal: mobility within the home. A robot that can patrol and interact with family members can provide peace of mind, especially for elderly care.

Joyin’s breakthrough came with the release of DeepSeek-R1, a model that enhances decision-making capabilities. This technology allows robots to learn and adapt, making them more intuitive. Joyin is also developing an open platform for users to customize their robots, fostering a sense of ownership and connection.

The emotional aspect of robotics is crucial. Joyin is not chasing the ideal of humanoid robots performing complex tasks. Instead, they focus on building trust and companionship. Their first robot may not even have voice functions, relying instead on body language and visual cues to convey emotions. This approach sets them apart from competitors.

As both Soundcore and Joyin push the boundaries of technology, they are paving the way for a future where devices are more than tools. They are companions, assistants, and integral parts of our lives. The evolution of headphones into smart assistants and the rise of emotionally aware robots signal a new era in consumer electronics.

In this future, technology will be woven into the fabric of daily life. Headphones will not just play music; they will facilitate communication and enhance productivity. Robots will not just perform tasks; they will provide companionship and emotional support. The possibilities are endless.

As we look ahead, the question remains: how will we adapt to these changes? Will we embrace these innovations and integrate them into our lives? The answer lies in our willingness to explore and engage with the technology around us. The future is bright, and it’s just beginning.