Soundcore, Anker's audio brand, released the Soundcore P42i true wireless earbuds on July 2, 2026[1]. The P42i is the successor to the best-selling "P40i," which was the top-selling model by sales value among true wireless earbuds priced under 10,000 yen in Japan in 2025. The new model brings improved noise cancelling and LDAC support while making the earbuds more compact. Priced at 9,990 yen including tax, it aims to become a new go-to option for everyday use.
A Successor to the Best-Selling P40i
The P42i builds on its predecessor, the Soundcore P40i. According to the company, that earlier model recorded the No.1 sales value in Japan among true wireless earbuds priced under 10,000 yen in 2025. That figure is based on the company's own tally of sales results at major electronics retailers nationwide, drawn from data compiled by an external research firm[1], so it is worth keeping in mind that this is the manufacturer's own count.
The new model carries over the wireless charging and long battery life that were well received on the previous version, while revisiting core areas such as noise cancelling performance, supported codecs, and body size. Rather than piling on flashy new features, it is a product that focuses on refining the fundamentals of a device meant for daily use.
Noise Cancelling Moves to 3.5, with LDAC for Higher Quality Audio
One of the highlights is the upgraded noise cancelling. Anker's proprietary Ultra Noise Cancelling has been updated from 2.0 on the previous model to 3.5, automatically optimizing the strength of the cancellation based on the surrounding environment and how the earbuds are worn[1]. It is a specification aimed at usability in situations that change frequently, such as on trains during a commute or in a cafe.
On the audio side, in addition to powerful bass from an 11mm large driver, the earbuds now support LDAC, a codec for hi-res-class wireless transmission. This was not supported on the previous model, so when paired with a compatible Android device, users can enjoy sound with more detail. The earbuds also support multipoint connection, allowing users to switch between two devices, such as a smartphone and a PC.
More Compact, Long Playback, and Four Colors
With everyday portability in mind, both the earbuds and the case have been made smaller than the previous model. According to Anker, the earbuds themselves are about 14 percent smaller and the charging case about 17 percent smaller[1], making them easier to fit into a pocket or a small bag.
Battery life is up to 8.5 hours for the earbuds alone with noise cancelling on, and up to 40 hours combined with the charging case. Dust and water resistance is rated at IP55, which withstands dust and water splashes, so they can be used during exercise or in light rain. Four colors are offered: off-white, a popular carryover from the previous model, plus black, navy, and purple. Of these, navy and purple are scheduled to go on general sale from July 16, 2026[1]. The earbuds also include a strap hole, so users can customize their look with a strap of their choice.
Price and Where to Buy
The price is 9,990 yen including tax. The earbuds are sold through the Anker Japan official online store, the Anker Store retail locations, Amazon.co.jp, Rakuten Ichiba, and select electronics retailers[1]. By packing features like noise cancelling and LDAC into a price under 10,000 yen, the P42i lands in a price range well suited to first-time true wireless earbud buyers and gift purchases alike.
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Anker Soundcore P42i 完全ワイヤレスイヤホン
Summary
The Soundcore P42i is a true wireless earbud model that, as the successor to the popular P40i, upgrades its internals with Ultra Noise Cancelling 3.5 and LDAC support while making the body more compact. It offers up to 8.5 hours of playback for the earbuds alone and up to 40 hours with the case, along with IP55 dust and water resistance, all at a price held to 9,990 yen including tax. Rather than a high-end flagship, it looks like a strong choice for anyone looking for a device they can use casually every day.
Source: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000662.000016775.html
