The global headphones market is no stranger to disruption. True wireless (TWS) devices reshaped expectations; open-ear models have expanded the form factor mix; and over-ears have carved out their own premium growth story. Yet perhaps the most defining shift right now is financial, with an upsurge of consumers taking their headphone purchases to new heights.

Harman International has completed the acquisition of Sound United, the former consumer audio business of Masimo Corporation. Sound United's portfolio of audio brands includes Bowers & Wilkins, Denon, Marantz, Definitive Technology, Polk Audio, HEOS, Classé, and Boston Acoustics.

A third of shoppers plan to use AI to assist with their holiday shopping this year, according to a UserTesting survey of 4,000 consumers in the U.S., the U.K., and Australia released Wednesday.

TWICE, Residential Systems, and What HiFi? have announced the winners of their annual Best of Show awards at CEDIA Expo 2025. The products were nominated by the manufacturers, and a team of judges was employed to read through the entries and rate the products on a number of criteria, including their value, impact, and how unique it was to the market.
Residential Systems entries were judged through the lens of the residential integrator, while TWICE based theirs on a consumer electronics retail view, and What Hi-Fi? from the home entertainment enthusiast perspective.

Kohler and Control4 have entered into a partnership to help deliver a new level of connected luxury shower experiences at-home. The integration of Anthem+ with Control4 brings together Kohler's water delivery technology with Control4's automation platform in order to provide a more connected and immersive experience.