Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro Brings Unique Features Such as Lossless Wi-Fi Audio Streaming

Wi-Fi audio allows users to move freely within their Wi-Fi network without any connection drops a limitation typically associated wit Bluetooth. However there are some trade-offs. The most significant is the need for a Wi-Fi connection limiting the enhanced audio experience to locations where the earbuds can connect to a known network.

Qualcomm previously stated that phones would pass Wo-Fi credentials during pairing though it remains unclear if the buds support multiple network for seamless transitions between home and office environments.

At launch Xiaomi has restricted compatibility to the 15 and 15 Ultra smartphones. While broader support may be possible in the future the requirements for Qualcomm latest flagship chipsets such as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or 8 Elite means they will nit work with iPhones or other non-Qualcomm devices over Wi-Fi.

Despite this limitation the Buds 5 Pro offer impressive battery life with 10 hours of continuous use and up to 40 hours with the charging case surpassing the eight-hour performance of the Bluetooth-only model. The earbuds also feature a triple-driver system consisting of an 11mm main driver a PZT tweeter and a planar driver. Active noise cancellation and AI-powered features such as call recording, transcription and real-time translation further enhance their appeal.

The Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro Wi-Fi edition is priced at $240 and is available exclusively in black. The Bluetooth-only version costs $200 and comes in white and gray.