In a move signaling renewed focus on its audio division, OnePlus is set to launch the Bullets Wireless Z3 earphones—a mid-range contender boasting the brand’s proprietary OnePlus 3D Spatial Audio technology. However, leaked specs confirm a notable omission: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) will be absent, positioning the Z3 as a feature-specific offering rather than an all-rounder.
According to sources close to the development, the Z3 aims to deliver an "immersive soundscape" for movies and gaming via spatial audio processing, leveraging algorithms to simulate directional sound. This aligns with OnePlus’ recent software updates expanding spatial audio support across its smartphone lineup. Yet audiophiles craving silence in noisy environments may be disappointed—the Z3 relies on passive noise isolation alone.
The design, teased in early renders, suggests a familiar neckband form factor with magnetic earbuds, USB-C charging, and IP55 water resistance. Battery life is rumored at 20 hours, mirroring 2022’s Z2 model. Pricing remains unconfirmed, but insider leaks hint at an aggressive ₹2,499–2,999 ($30–$36) range for India, targeting budget-conscious users.
For context, OnePlus’ audio strategy appears bifurcated: while the premium Buds 4 (launched last month) include ANC, the Z3’s spatial-audio emphasis suggests a segmentation play. Industry watchers note this echoes Apple’s approach with spatial audio on AirPods, though without ANC, the Z3’s value proposition leans heavily on OnePlus’ tuning expertise.
Pre-orders are expected by July, with global availability via Amazon and OnePlus’ store. Early listings have already surfaced on Amazon India, though the product page remains placeholder-only. For deeper specs, OnePlus’ official portal (Bullets Z3) will go live next week.
Analysts speculate this launch could reinvigorate OnePlus’ audio segment after quiet years. As noted by tech blog GSMGoTech, the brand is "reviving its audio line" amid fiercer competition from Nothing, Boat, and Oppo. Whether spatial audio suffices to offset the ANC gap remains the Z3’s biggest question.
Availability: India first, followed by EU/NA in Q3 2025.
Expected Price: Under $40 globally.
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