The H8i and H9i are B&O's new luxury noise-cancelling headphones

Bang & Olufsen subsidiary B&O Play has kicked off 2018 by unveiling refreshed versions of its high-end noise-cancelling headphones. The luxury manufacturer has two new choices: the H9i for those that prefer over-ear headphones, and the H8i if on-ear is more your thing.

Both pairs feature improvements including longer battery life, an ever-so-slightly refined design, USB Type-C charging, dual device connectivity, additional microphones for better call quality, and a proximity sensor that pauses music on your paired device when you remove the headphones. The H9i also benefits from improved noise-cancellation and stronger bass.

In terms of battery life, the H9i should last for 18 hours, while the H8i can survive up to 30. The H9i battery can be replaced however, while the H8i battery is sealed inside.

Local pricing for the pair has yet to be confirmed, but the current generation H8 and H9 retail for $729 and $799 respectively, so we wouldn't be surprised if the new models were priced similarly. They'll be available worldwide from January 25.

In addition, B&O's E8 wire-free headphones will launch in two new colours options: "all white" and "all black". These will be available online from February 22, priced at $449.

Looking for more headphone options? Here's our guide to the best wireless headphones on the market.

Alex Choros

Managing Editor + Group Telco Editor | X | Instagram | Threads | LinkedIn

Alex Choros is the Managing Editor of WhistleOut Australia and an award-winning journalist. He's been writing about consumer technology for over a decade and is an expert on the Australian telco sector, to the point where he knows far too many phone and internet plans by heart. In addition to leading the WhistleOut editorial team, Alex is responsible for ruining the office Sonos with his troubled taste in music.

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