Panasonic has announced a firmware update for the RZ-S500W and RZ-S300W true wireless headphones along with application software to enhance functions and usability.
All programs will be available on October 6, 2020 and can be updated using the free “Panasonic Audio Connect” app.
The major functions to be updated are as follows:
Firmware Version:
RZ-S500W JMS1ZS 01.80
RZ-S300W JMS1ZR 01.31
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Ambient Sound Mode
Headphones capture a wider range of external sounds and the amount of white noise has been reduced.
-
Bluetooth Blinking LED[i]
The headphones’ blinking LED function can now be turned off.
Ambient Sound Mode
Headphones capture a wider range of external sounds
New improvements within the ambient sound mode have made significant steps towards reproducing more natural sound. By redesigning the algorithms used to capture surrounding sonic elements, the headphones can now capture a wider range of frequencies than before. This has enabled a more natural sounding mix of music and surrounding sounds, and will bring a much improved ambient sound experience.
Before
The ambient sound mode focused predominantly on surrounding voices.
After
The ambient sound mode comprehensively captures voices and other surrounding sounds, leading to a more natural sound similar to not wearing headphones at all.
*Photos show the RZ-S300W.
Reduced white noise
The amount of white noise noticeable when using the ambient sound mode in a quiet environment has been reduced. Noise reduction rate (compared to previously):
RZ-S500W -25%/RZ-S300W -50%
Bluetooth Blinking LED
Optional blinking LED setting
The headphones’ blinking LED function can now be turned off.[ii]
*Photo shows the RZ-S500W.
How to set up
Slide the “Bluetooth blinking LED” switch in “Setting.”
How to Update
Before you start
Charge both the left and right sides of the headphones to more than 70%. The update process will take approximately 15 minutes[iii] to complete. The file size is about 1.8 MB.
Checking the firmware version and updating
You can use the free “Panasonic Audio Connect” app to update the firmware of the connected headphones.
The app is compatible with smartphones and tablets that are equipped with Android™ 6.0 or higher and that support Google Play™, or an iPhone ®, iPad ® and iPod Touch ® equipped with iOS9.3 or higher. Images below are of the app on an Android™ device. The user interface will differ slightly on iOS, but the procedure is the same.
When the latest version of the firmware is detected, tap “Update”.
When you tap “Update”, the firmware is transferred to the headphones and the update will begin. Transfers may be interrupted or slowed down if music is being played or there is a call during the transfer. Start the transfer with the headphones outside of their charging cradle, set them down close by and do not operate them.
Wait until the update completes, without operating the headphones or the app.
After the firmware has been updated, the headphones will automatically restart and reconnect with the handset. The app will not work properly until the update is complete. Do not try to operate the headphones or the app while the update is in progress.
The update is complete when the main screen appears.
[NOTICE]
Functions, function names, and specifications are subject to change without notice.
TRADEMARK NOTICE:
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[i] This function was released in August 2020 (RZ-S500W Ver. JMS1ZQ 01.71/RZ-S300W Ver. JMS1ZP 01.21).
[ii]LEDs blink in default settings. Bluetooth blinking LED ON/OFF setting is effective only when the headphones are connected to a smartphone (when listening to music, on a phone call, when transferring firmware, etc.). LEDs will continue to blink when initially paired with a smartphone and when a call is received.
[iii] The update may take up to an hour depending on the device and internet environment.