Sennheiser Momentum 5 earbuds feature replaceable batteries
Sennheiser announced the Momentum True Wireless 5 earbuds featuring user-replaceable batteries for $299.95, launching on September 3rd.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Sennheiser announced its new flagship wireless earbuds focused on sustainability.
- Both the earbuds and charging case feature user-replaceable batteries using a screwdriver.
- Priced at $299.95 and scheduled to launch globally on September 3rd.
- Battery life increased to up to 12 hours per charge, totaling 40 hours with the case.
Sennheiser has announced the next generation of its flagship wireless earbuds, introducing a major redesign centered around long-term sustainability. The company states that the new architecture improves the comfort, stability, and portability of the Momentum True Wireless 5 compared to previous generations. However, the most compelling incentive for users to upgrade is that they will no longer need to discard the earphones when the battery eventually degrades, as both the buds and their charging case feature user-replaceable batteries accessible with a compact screwdriver instead of glued-together layers.
The Momentum True Wireless 5 will hit the market starting September 3rd, priced at $299.95—matching the launch price of the Momentum 4 released in early 2024. Buyers can choose from five distinct metallic color finishes: lavender, copper, denim, graphite, and cream.
Replaceable batteries are staging a comeback in consumer electronics, largely driven by impending European sustainability regulations set to take effect in early 2027. While several manufacturers have introduced over-ear headphones with swappable power cells, adoption has remained notably sluggish within true wireless earbuds due to the heavy reliance on adhesives to keep them compact and lightweight. Although Bang & Olufsen launched the Beoplay Eleven with replaceable power cells in late 2024, users must mail them in for professional servicing. Meanwhile, the Momentum 5 joins the Fairphone Fairbuds as one of the very few in-ear options allowing direct, self-service battery replacements.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
The decision by a premier audio brand like Sennheiser to embrace modular repairability marks a watershed moment for the true wireless earbud market, which has traditionally treated batteries as disposable wear-and-tear components. This design pivot not only pre-empts strict upcoming right-to-repair and environmental regulations in Europe but also aligns with growing consumer demand for electronics that reduce e-waste and offer genuine longevity.
Beyond repairability, the battery endurance on the Momentum 5 has received a massive boost, delivering up to 12 hours of playback per charge and up to 40 hours total when paired with its newly slimmed-down, Qi-compatible charging case. By comparison, the older Momentum 4 peaked at 7.5 hours independently and 30 hours combined with its case.
Additional hardware refinements include redesigned ear tips paired with an upgraded adaptive active noise cancellation system for superior sound isolation, alongside support for Dolby Atmos and spatial audio complete with interactive head tracking. Sennheiser also integrated Bluetooth 6.0 support and a robust connection mode designed to maintain signal integrity in heavy interference zones.
Source: The Verge
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