iKKO’s ActiveBuds AB02 place an Android-based, internet-connected device inside a TWS earbud charging case. The case combines a 1.8-inch AMOLED display with Wi-Fi and 4G connectivity through a SIM card, allowing it to handle AI translation, recording, transcription and assistant functions without relying continuously on a phone hotspot.
Running Earsync OS, the case provides controls for music, translation, notes and an AI Assistant. iKKO says its two-way interpretation supports 62 languages. A hands-on test at IFA 2026 found that the system recognized a Romanian spoken phrase and returned a Chinese translation, indicating that the language support extends beyond an English-focused demonstration.
The platform can also record calls and convert conversations to text in 57 languages, according to iKKO. Its AI tools can extract key points and generate a summary, while recorded material can sync with the iKKO smartphone app.
The SIM slot is intended to supply data to Earsync OS, translation, AI features and apps installed on the case rather than turn it into a conventional phone. Bluetooth 5.3 handles the connection to the earbuds.
The earbuds themselves use 10 mm drivers and are rated for active noise cancellation of up to 48 dB. Each bud weighs 3.7 g, with claimed battery life of up to 7.5 hours from the earbuds and up to 70 hours including the case.
iKKO lists the ActiveBuds AB02 at $329 on its website. The company’s product pitch hinges less on conventional earbud specifications than on whether a connected charging case can serve as a standalone translation and AI companion; broader market availability details remain unclear.
