Subtle launches earphones featuring noise reduction technology

Subtle Unveils Advanced Voice-Isolating Earbuds

Subtle, a voice AI startup specializing in technology that helps computers better interpret speech in noisy settings, has introduced a new set of wireless earbuds. These earbuds are designed to ensure users are heard clearly during calls and to provide accurate transcriptions for note-taking.

The announcement comes just before the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. Subtle plans to release the earbuds in the United States within the coming months. Priced at $199, each pair includes a one-year subscription to the company’s app for iOS and Mac. With this app, users can record voice notes or interact with AI hands-free, thanks to a dedicated chip that can activate an iPhone even when it’s locked.

Competing in the AI Voice Dictation Space

Subtle aims to rival other AI-powered voice dictation solutions like Wispr Flow, Willow, Monologue, and Superwhisper by enabling users to dictate text in any application using their earbuds. The company asserts that its earbuds produce five times fewer transcription errors compared to AirPods Pro 3 paired with OpenAI’s transcription technology.

During a demonstration for TechCrunch, the earbuds successfully captured clear audio in a bustling environment. They also accurately transcribed a whispered voice note from Subtle’s co-founder and CEO, Tyler Chen.

“We’re witnessing a significant shift toward voice as a primary interface. People can accomplish much more naturally with voice than with a keyboard. However, many hesitate to use voice controls around others. Our noise isolation technology, built into our earbuds, aims to make voice interaction accessible and comfortable in any setting,” Chen explained in a call with TechCrunch.

All-in-One Voice Solution

While companies like Sandbar and Pebble have recently launched smart rings for taking notes, Subtle’s approach combines dictation, AI chat, and voice note features into a single device and app. This integration is intended to streamline users’ workflow and reduce the need for multiple gadgets.

The Voicebuds are available in both black and white.

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Funding and Partnerships

To date, Subtle has secured $6 million in investment and is collaborating with consumer tech companies such as Qualcomm and Nothing to implement its noise isolation models in their products.