August 28, 2026, 2:03 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
In the business world, headphones are increasingly used to record, transcribe, and repurpose calls and conversations for documents, emails, or calendars. However, this typically requires AI-powered apps on smartphones to do most of the work. The note-taking device manufacturer Plaud has a new solution. The One headphones have an integrated eSIM, allowing them to communicate independently with the manufacturer’s AI services.
Artificial Intelligence for Audio Recordings
Artificial intelligence is now ubiquitous, but it usually appears as software features for smartphones and similar devices. Hardware manufacturers still struggle to create standalone AI products. An exception is Plaud, which specializes in note-taking devices that use AI to create transcripts of calls and conversations. The new One headphones aim to integrate this function even more deeply into everyday business life.
After recording, Plaud’s software creates a transcript. An AI assistant can then generate follow-up emails, documents, or presentations. It can connect with Gmail, Google Calendar, Notion, and Slack, among others.
eSIM Makes Plaud One Independent
Similar functions are already offered by numerous note-taking apps for smartphones. Some manufacturers have long included headphones that can take notes directly, such as Anker and Nothing. However, Plaud equips the One model with a charging case that has an integrated eSIM.
This connection allows the AI assistants to be controlled remotely, without a smartphone or computer. Plaud has also announced agentic AI that can independently take over workflows and is expected to be available via an update in the coming months.
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Technical Equipment
The charging case is designed to clearly capture voices from up to five meters away, making it suitable for personal conversations. Aside from the special case, the Plaud One is a fairly standard pair of earbuds. They come with 12-millimeter drivers and active noise cancellation (ANC).
According to Plaud, one charge is enough for six hours of conversation recording or three hours of phone recording. Combined with the case, the possible recording time increases to up to 25 hours.
Price and Launch
The Plaud One costs $249. Pre-orders are already possible, with delivery scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026. Initially, the device will be available in limited quantities.
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The price includes 300 minutes of transcription per month. Additional quotas require a subscription. Rates start at $8.33 per month when paid annually. For the planned AI functions, Plaud relies on a credit point system. Buyers of the One model receive a starting credit worth $200.