Apple has released the Powerbeats Pro 2, the successor to the original Powerbeats Pro, after nearly five years since the initial launch.

The new earbuds incorporate the latest H2 chip found in Apple's AirPods Pro and come with a heart rate monitoring feature.

This functionality, while new to the Powerbeats line, is similar to features offered by other brands including Sennheiser, Jabra, and Soundcore.

The Powerbeats Pro 2 retains the iconic ear hook design of its predecessor, designed to provide stability during vigorous physical activities.

These ear hooks have been made smaller, and the earbuds are lighter overall.

The charging case has also seen a reduction in size, now approximately one-third smaller than the previous version, though it remains larger than the charging case of AirPods Pro.

Customers will find ear tips available in five different sizes, although testing has indicated that many users struggled to find a perfect fit, necessitating the purchase of third-party ear tips for optimal sound sealing.

However, compatibility with ear tips from previous models is maintained.

In testing, the heart rate monitoring feature was assessed alongside an Amazfit smartwatch and a Polar sensor, delivering consistent results.

On iOS devices, the earphones can automatically measure heart rate when used with compatible applications such as Peloton, Nike Run Club, and Slopes.

For Android users, the selection of compatible apps is wider; however, they must manually start heart rate measurement either via the Beats app or directly on the earbuds.

The Powerbeats Pro 2 can connect to certain fitness machines, although initial user reports include mixed results regarding successful synchronization.

While attempts to connect with a Bowflex spinning bike were unsuccessful, connections with TechnoGym treadmills and cross-trainers reportedly functioned correctly.

It is noted that Android users can simultaneously track heart rate while using a fitness machine and listening to music, a capability not available for iOS users as confirmed by Apple.

One of the highlighted features of the H2 chip is its ability to facilitate seamless switching among Apple devices linked to the same iCloud account.

However, this functionality is not extended to Android users, who are unable to connect the earbuds to multiple devices at the same time.

iOS users gain access to additional functionalities such as dynamic head tracking and voice isolation, features that are not available on Android.

User feedback on the active noise cancellation feature has been somewhat disappointing, with performance expected to rival that of the AirPods Pro but instead falling short.

Conversely, the transparency mode received positive reviews for its natural sound quality.

Overall audio quality was reported as favorable, although this is contingent upon achieving a proper seal with the ear tips, which also affects the effectiveness of noise cancellation.

The Powerbeats Pro 2 offers approximately eight hours of battery life with noise cancellation enabled, while the charging case can provide about three and a half additional charges.

The case also supports wireless charging, and the earbuds include physical controls for volume adjustment and call management.

The retail price for the Powerbeats Pro 2 is set at €300, available in four different color options.

Despite the introduction of new features, the earbuds display critical limitations, particularly concerning functionality that many fitness enthusiasts seek.

Apple’s focus on enhancing their ecosystem suggests that future updates to this product line may address existing concerns and improve user experience.