Yandex ships first major firmware update for Alice AI earbuds Drops and smart devices
Yandex
Yandex released its first large update for the Drops AI earbuds: a reworked sound signature (abandoning the Harman curve), about 10 dB higher maximum volume, stronger noise cancellation with better wind detection, clearer speech in transparency mode, and 15-20% longer battery life when ANC and Alice voice activation run together. Station Duo Max gained a full screen-off night mode, and the 'Home with Alice' smart-home app added voice-controlled aerogrill support starting with Demiand devices.
Why it matters
Fast post-launch iteration on Yandex's first Alice AI wearable shows the always-on AI assistant is the product's core; battery life with the assistant active is the key usability constraint for voice AI hardware.
Importance: 1/5
Routine firmware update to consumer earbuds and smart speakers