LG Electronics USA has announced the U.S. debut of LG TONE Free wireless earbuds, which features Meridian technology and a unique UVnano charging case that kills 99.9 percent of bacteria on the part of the earbud closest to your inner ear (model HBS-FN6). Available now at LG.com and LG-authorized retailers at a suggested price of $149.99, the LG TONE Free FN6 comes in two colors: matte black and gloss white.
The flagship FN6 model’s UVnano charging case is the first product that is UL Verified to reduce bacteria based on a new ultraviolet-light test protocol developed by microbiology experts at UL. UL verified that the UV light reduces bacteria on the earbuds’ speaker mesh by 99.9 percent during the powered charging cycle.
LG TONE Free earbuds deliver an extra audio dimension courtesy of HSP (Headphone Spatial Processing) technology from Meridian — LG’s long-standing audio partner — powered by digital signal processing. The new TONE Free earbuds feature customized EQ sound settings developed by Meridian with each mode offering four unique presets to deliver a tailored listening experience: Natural for authentic and balanced sound; Immersive for an expanded sense of space; Bass Boost for that extra punch; and Treble Boost for greater vocal clarity. The snug-fitting eartips provide a tight seal for noise isolation that blocks out most distracting exterior noise while the Ambient Sound mode lets users hear what’s going on around them with the press of a button.
LG’s UVnano charging case was developed for protected storage, hassle-free charging and enhanced hygiene. The compact charging case provides a total of 18 hours of listening enjoyment. Fully charged, the LG FN6 provides up to six hours of playback and an additional 12 hours on-the-go from the charging case – all from one charge.
“UL’s tests verified that the UV light source in the LG charging case reduces bacteria on the earbuds’ speaker mesh by 99.9 percent,” says Todd Denison, vice president and general manager of lighting at UL. The UL evaluation involved applying microorganisms to the inner mesh of the earbuds and then placing them in the powered charging case, which has a UV light source, Denison explains. Before and after the 10-minute UV exposure cycle, samples of the bacteria were extracted and analyzed for microbial counts and the reduction of test organisms was calculated.
The LG TONE Free lineup also includes two additional models both offering the same Meridian audio technology but do not include the unique UVnano feature of the flagship HBS-FN6 — the HBS-FN5W (SRP $129.99) which includes wireless charging (via compatible charging pads) and the HBS-FN4 (SRP $99.99).
With an IPX4 rating, all three LG TONE Free FN Series earbud models provide water resistance against raindrops, splashing, and perspiration while working out. They also feature Voice Command for convenient voice access to Google Assistant or Siri on a connected smartphone, while intuitive touch commands allow you to play, pause, skip and adjust the volume without reaching for the phone.
LG TONE Free also features an app for iOS and Android platforms that provides access to four Meridian EQ presets and two customizable EQ modes. Through the app, you can boost or diminish specific frequencies to your personal listening preferences. The app also helps you to locate your missing earbuds; activate the search mode in the “Find My Earbuds” page and an audible beep will sound.
For more information, visit lg.com.
This article originally ran on residentialsystems.com.
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