NetEase Youdao has launched the OpenPods AI headset, designed specifically for iPhone users and priced at ¥1499. The device features Apple MFi certification, ensuring native iOS integration and functionality even when the screen is locked. The headset is available in black and white, with each earbud weighing 7 grams.
The charging case includes a microphone with a pickup range of 5–8 meters and 256MB of internal storage for offline recording. Hardware specifications include a 10.8mm dynamic driver, a titanium-coated composite diaphragm, and a triple-microphone array with bone conduction technology for noise reduction.
The headset integrates an AI meeting assistant that structures meeting content, identifies speakers, and generates summaries, to-do lists, and mind maps. Users can query recorded data via the Ask AI feature, which provides verified answers with source citations. The system also supports real-time translation and email drafting.
The product operates on a hardware-plus-service model. The standard membership includes 300 minutes of monthly transcription and 50 Ask AI queries. The premium subscription, priced at ¥59 per month or ¥599 per year, increases monthly limits to 3000 minutes of transcription, 1000 Ask AI queries, and 1200 minutes of simultaneous interpretation.
