soundcore has introduced the Liberty 5 Pro and Liberty 5 Pro Max, a new pair of true wireless earbuds distinguished by a custom AI chip developed in-house rather than relying on standard off-the-shelf processors. This THUS AI chip aims to handle neural audio tasks directly on the device, promising improved efficiency for features like call clarity and real-time processing. The launch highlights ongoing efforts in the competitive TWS market to move beyond incremental audio upgrades toward more integrated intelligence, particularly relevant in multilingual business hubs across the Gulf.
Call performance forms a central claim. The Liberty 5 Pro holds a Guinness World Record for speech quality in this category, achieved through a combination of ten sensors, eight microphones, and bone conduction detectors that capture vocal vibrations. This setup isolates the speaker’s voice from background interference, even at lower volumes. The Pro Max shares the same earbud hardware, delivering comparable results. In practice, such multi-sensor arrays have become more common as remote work and frequent calls demand reliability in noisy cafés, offices, or during commutes, yet real-world consistency often depends on environmental variables that lab records do not fully capture.
The Liberty 5 Pro Max stands out with a 1.78-inch AMOLED screen on the charging case, enabling an AI note-taker function. After recording sessions locally, users can generate transcripts, speaker identification, and action items without pulling out a phone. On-device translation supports over 100 languages, useful in the GCC where conversations frequently switch between English, Arabic, Hindi, and others. The smaller 0.96-inch TFT screen on the standard Pro model handles basic controls. While on-device processing reduces latency and privacy concerns compared to cloud-dependent alternatives, the utility of case-based screens for note-taking will likely vary based on individual workflows and whether users prefer dedicated apps or simpler voice memos.
Adaptive ANC 4.0 employs an eight-microphone array to adjust cancellation dynamically, processing audio at high frequencies to handle everything from engine rumble to chatter. soundcore claims deeper reduction than its prior models, though earlier ANC generations have shown that performance can fluctuate with fit and movement. HearID 5.0 personalizes EQ through a quick hearing test, while an AI enhancement feature attempts to restore detail lost in Bluetooth compression. Both models support LDAC for higher-resolution audio over Bluetooth 6.1, along with multipoint connectivity for up to three devices.
Battery life reaches up to 6.5 hours with ANC enabled, extending to 28 hours total with the case, with fast charging providing a quick boost. IP55 resistance offers decent protection against dust and sweat, suitable for daily use. Voice commands respond in under a second, and transparency modes facilitate brief interactions without removing the buds.
Priced at AED 699 for the Liberty 5 Pro and AED 899 for the Pro Max in the UAE, with similar positioning in Saudi Arabia, these earbuds enter a segment where premium features compete against established players. The custom AI chip signals ambition in on-device processing, but success will hinge on long-term software support and whether the advanced functions deliver reliable value beyond marketing specifications. For users balancing calls, translation, and audio in dynamic environments, they represent a notable evolution, though everyday performance remains the true test.
