Resurgence of Wired Headphones: Key Insights for Consumers

Share and Follow

Related video above: Educators talk cellphones, AI at Senate hearing on K-12 learning

(NewsNation) — In today’s tech-driven world where wireless audio devices like Bluetooth headphones are the norm, a surprising trend has emerged: a return to the classic wired headphones. Despite the allure of untethered listening, many individuals are opting for the traditional corded option once more.

This shift gained attention recently when Kamala Harris, the former Vice President of the United States, mentioned on a late-night talk show her deliberate choice to steer clear of Bluetooth headphones. Harris highlighted the potential security risks, noting that these wireless devices could be vulnerable to hacking, especially during private conversations.

Harris’s remarks underscore a broader resurgence of interest in wired headphones, which have regained popularity for a variety of reasons. For many, wired options offer superior sound quality, and they are often more affordable compared to their wireless counterparts.

Meanwhile, in other tech news, Meta is reportedly planning to lay off around 600 employees within its AI division, signaling ongoing shifts within the technology sector.

Regarding price, wired headphones are the cheaper alternative. Wireless headphones can be costly for consumers.

“An entry-level pair of Audiophile Sennheiser headphones, like the HD 599 SE, will set you back around $229,” added Rogers. “That’s hundreds less than their wireless counterparts. And thanks to their open-backed design and sound quality focus, they’re going to sound a lot better, too.”

Do Bluetooth headphones pose health risks?

Reversals from wireless headphones to wired have also been encouraged by the possible health risks associated with wireless devices.

Research by scientists revealed wireless headphones emit a type of radiation called radiofrequency radiation. Radiofrequency radiation is a type of radiation that falls under electromagnetic radiation, which travels in waves using electric and magnetic fields.

Some have suggested this kind of radiation can put people at risk of cancer. In 2011, the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer classified radiofrequency radiation as a Class 2B Possible Human Carcinogen. Three years later, researchers found a potential association between long-term mobile phone use and glioma, a type of brain tumor.

Wireless headphones can also potentially affect male fertility and lead to hearing problems.

A review from 2018 said radiofrequency electromagnetic fields can harm sperm quality, disrupt cellular metabolism and cause oxidative stress. These factors all could contribute to infertility in people with testes.

In addition, analysis published in the Indian Journal of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery discovered high-frequency hearing loss was remarkably more common in the dominant ear of cellphone users.