LibrePods is a free, open-source app that brings Apple-exclusive AirPods features to non-Apple platforms by implementing the proprietary protocol AirPods use to talk to Apple devices. It lets you change noise control modes, use ear detection, see accurate battery status, use head gestures, conversational awareness, and more, all without needing a Mac or iPhone. Supports Android and Linux.
GitHub: https://github.com/kavishdevar/librepods
More details: https://digitalescapetools.com/tools/tool.html?id=librepods
More privacy-friendly tools: https://digitalescapetools.com/
I am very glad to see people fighting against Apple’s shitty business model. But I have never understood the appeal of earpods. $250+, uncomfortable, incredibly easy to lose, locked to a shit ecosystem. I’m glad at least that last one can be reversed.
For me they’re the only option I find comfortable. Apple’s one of the few that still offer earbuds that don’t require you jam them inside you ear while still sounding pretty good and staying in while exercising.
As for their features, I can pause and play my music with them. This isn’t the first app to offer some additional functionality on Android either. CAPods has been around for a while.
There are also wireless in-ear (vs. buds).
I think pretty much the only other option for earbuds that rest in the lobe rather than use a sealing tip is sold by Nothing, and they rely on a wraparound that feels uncomfortable for me while I’m wearing glasses.
Genuinely, Apple has the market cornered on this. I’d love some competition, but so far I’ve yet to come across another pair of wireless earbuds that:
- Don’t leak sound
- Don’t sit in the ear canal
- Sound good (clear mids/bass/treble)
- Comfortable for long periods of time
My 50 $ in-ear do the job for when wired is unhandy and quality doesn’t matter (you know what i mean).
Why not selling them and buy more open and easier to use earbuds?
There isnt even 3 “open” models of earphones that you can name, and there definitely isnt broad support in any os to configure them. This is great compared to the rest tbh
Good question, but how possible is to sell airpods used? Do people buy them easy?
Usually yes. Obviously it depends on the price
Here’s the thing. They’re really good earbuds. I prefer them (and the 3.5mm wired ear pods) to the alternatives because the sound, mic, and especially noise cancellation, are all really great.
