Anker is prepping two new true wireless earbuds: the Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro and Liberty 5 Pro Max, according to insider AnkerInsider. These models promise a major upgrade with a custom AI-focused chip and a charging case featuring a touch screen, pushing earbuds into smarter territory.
Both new earbuds build on last year’s Soundcore Liberty 5, which currently sells for about $100. The big technical leap is the inclusion of Anker’s new Thus chip-a compute-in-memory processor designed to enhance audio clarity and detail by applying AI upscaling to your music.
Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro specs and features
The Liberty 5 Pro (model number D1203) targets everyday listeners with improvements across the board. It features Adaptive ANC 4.0, Anker’s upgraded active noise cancellation system that’s more advanced than the ANC 3.0 from the original Liberty 5. It also supports Dolby Atmos spatial audio and Bluetooth 6.1, including multipoint connectivity to connect two devices simultaneously.
The earbuds carry an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance, making them suitable for workouts and daily use. Battery life is around 6.5 hours with ANC on, stretching up to 28 hours with the charging case. Without ANC, playback can last 10 hours, and the case extends that to 45 hours total.
Charging options include USB-C, fast charging, and wireless charging, while the earbuds come in black and white. Pricing is expected to be around $170.
Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro Max charging case features
The Liberty 5 Pro Max keeps most features of the Pro but adds some intriguing extras. Most notably, its charging case has a built-in multi-microphone system that turns it into a portable voice recorder. The case is also said to include voice recognition that identifies the owner, offering a personalized user experience without needing a phone.
Color options include black and gold, and the Pro Max model will reportedly retail for around $230.
How Anker Liberty 5 Pro compares to rival earbuds
Anker’s integration of AI-based audio processing and smart features like a touch-screen case signals a push beyond basic wireless earbuds toward more intelligent audio devices. While Apple, Samsung, and Sony focus heavily on intuitive integration and ANC quality, Anker aims to differentiate itself with unique additions like its advanced AI chip and interactive case.
At around $170 for the Liberty 5 Pro, these earbuds offer a compelling mid-range alternative to premium models like the AirPods Pro or Sony WF-1000XM5, which retail for $200-$250. The Pro Max’s voice recording and user recognition features are rare in this segment and could carve out a niche for users valuing productivity and smart controls.
What to expect from Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro and Pro Max
The inclusion of a touch-screen charging case is unusual and could either set a new trend or prove gimmicky-how intuitive and responsive the UI is will be key. Similarly, the AI audio upscaling’s real-world benefits remain to be tested against established audio tuning by Sony and Apple.
If Anker delivers on the AI enhancements and smart case features at these price points, it could push other brands to rethink the role of charging cases and onboard AI in wireless earbuds. The coming months will reveal if Soundcore’s latest earbuds can blend innovation with everyday practicality for a global audience.