Recently, while browsing for topics, I stumbled upon something quite intriguing: the Huaqiangbei version of the AirPods Pro 3.
Yes, Huaqiangbei released the AirPods Pro 3 ahead of Apple... The moment I saw this product, I couldn't help but laugh out loud.
Cook: "Only Apple can... Wait a minute. From now on, not only will I have to source iPhones from a certain Pinduoduo, but I'll also need to get earphones from Huaqiangbei. What's going on here..."
Some netizens even said: How to buy, where to buy, want to buy one to try (dog head warning).
As an Apple fan, how can I resist such curiosity, so I once again begged the big brother in Huaqiangbei to help me find one. After all, if even Apple hasn't made the product yet, what can Huaqiangbei do?
At first glance, the appearance of the Huaqiangbei version of the AirPods Pro 3 is strikingly identical to the previously exposed images in Apple patents.
The same screen, the same features, the same design...
Could it be that Apple has an insider from Huaqiangbei?
After all, without "inside and outside coordination," how could Huaqiangbei achieve such consistency in both technology and appearance...
However, this version of the AirPods Pro 3 from Huaqiangbei can be described as shoddy in appearance, failing to even meet a passing grade of 60 points.
For instance, the genuine product's breathable mesh is simply covered up with stickers by Huaqiangbei; the serial number of the authentic product is also not displayed on the headphones or the case, making it a bona fide "three-no product".
Apart from falling short of previous standards in terms of appearance and build quality, the rush to market in Huaqiangbei has resulted in the AirPods Pro 3 not being very refined, even skipping the use of "Loda" chips.
This has resulted in the absence of pop-up features and related functionalities. The previously heavily promoted active noise cancellation is, in reality, only an option on the headphone screen this time; there is no actual noise cancellation function, with or without it activated, the experience remains the same. Not to mention adaptive noise cancellation or spatial audio.
The most noticeable difference with this iteration of Huaqiangbei's AirPods Pro 3 is the addition of a display screen on the front of the case, which supports interaction. However, the screen is flanked by rather wide black bezels on either side.
Upon closer inspection, its screen also features a slight 2.5D curvature, with a resolution comparable to other smart bracelets on the market.
In terms of functionality, the version from Huaqiangbei also implements the features mentioned in Apple's patents.
For instance, you can set wallpapers on this screen, and they can even be dynamic;
Set a countdown timer;
Manually switch between noise reduction mode and sound effect mode;
Change tracks, adjust volume, check headphone status, and even switch between Chinese and English languages, and more...
These features give the Huaqiangbei AirPods Pro 3 a nostalgic MP3 vibe, indicating that Huaqiangbei is now imitating not just the appearance but also the "inner" functionalities.
However, its screen's touch sensitivity and responsiveness fall significantly short of normal standards, occasionally even experiencing lag.
So, how does it fare in terms of sound quality? Is it worth the $100+ price tag?
After personally testing it, without even comparing it to the genuine product, just against a budget TWS earbud released not long ago, the difference was clear instantly. The noise-cancellation feature of the knockoff might as well have been non-existent, with the sound quality blending all frequencies into a muddled mess. The vocals were indiscernible, and the bass was overwhelmingly boomy. It reminded me of the experience of using "street vendor beats" headphones more than a decade ago. In short, it's trash.
Furthermore, the version from Huaqiangbei not only suffers from poor sound quality but also lacks in-ear detection. When the touch area of the earphones malfunctions, it fails to respond. This means you have no way of knowing if the music continues playing when you take off the earphones. It's practically unusable.
Overall, it's apparent that the knockoff AirPods Pro in Huaqiangbei aren't aimed at providing genuine enjoyment of technology for everyone at a sincere price. Their ultimate goal is simply to cash in on Apple's popularity and market presence.
If you find the above description intriguing and want to buy it for fun, that's fine. But if you intend to use it seriously as a pair of headphones, I advise against it.
Getting a pair of headphones with a screen, noise-cancellation, and good sound quality for only 160 CNY is simply a pipe dream. JBL does have a pair of headphones with similar looks and features, but it's priced at 1499 CNY. So, when you compare this one from Huaqiangbei to JBL, they seem similar, right? Well, they can both make some noise (not really). Plus, the headphones we bought don't even use the "Loda" chip. Without a doubt, you'll likely encounter frequent disconnections, delays, and other issues. Then you'll realize, this isn't exactly Huaqiangbei dazzling the world; it's more like getting a raw deal.
So, for Huaqiangbei, creating a product that looks 90% similar and functions 60% similar is sufficient. Achieving this level is a breeze for them, posing no technical challenge. However, there's a world of difference in functionality compared to the genuine article, and quality is not guaranteed. Unless you're like me, buying for fun, I strongly advise against purchasing.
