The LG Tone Free FP8 earbuds carve out a respectable niche in the crowded true wireless earbud market, offering a compelling blend of features for everyday listeners, though they might not be the absolute top pick for audiophiles or those seeking extreme noise cancellation. Their standout features include UVnano charging case technology for hygiene, decent active noise cancellation ANC, and a comfortable, lightweight design, making them a solid contender for anyone prioritizing cleanliness and everyday usability in their audio gear.
Here’s a quick rundown of how they stack up against some other notable players in the audio world:
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- Key Features: Meridian Audio tuning, UVnano charging case for germ reduction, active noise cancellation ANC, IPX4 water resistance, wireless charging.
- Average Price: $120-$150
- Pros: Excellent hygiene feature, balanced sound profile, comfortable fit, good battery life.
- Cons: ANC isn’t class-leading, call quality can be inconsistent, app features could be more robust.
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- Key Features: Industry-leading active noise cancellation, exceptional sound quality with LDAC support, excellent battery life, DSEE Extreme audio upscaling.
- Average Price: $200-$250
- Pros: Unrivaled ANC, superb audio, long battery life, premium build.
- Cons: Larger charging case, higher price point, fit might not be ideal for all ears.
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- Key Features: World-class noise cancellation, impressive sound, comfortable fit with multiple ear tip options, custom sound calibration.
- Average Price: $270-$300
- Pros: Best-in-class ANC, rich and balanced audio, very comfortable for extended wear.
- Cons: Pricey, battery life is good but not outstanding, charging case is a bit bulky.
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- Key Features: H2 chip for enhanced audio and ANC, Adaptive Transparency mode, MagSafe Charging Case with speaker and lanyard loop, Find My integration.
- Pros: Seamless Apple ecosystem integration, excellent ANC and Transparency, spatial audio, great call quality.
- Cons: Limited customization for Android users, battery life is competitive but not class-leading, premium price.
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- Key Features: 24-bit Hi-Fi audio with compatible Samsung devices, enhanced ANC, comfortable and secure fit, 360 Audio with Direct Multi-channel.
- Average Price: $180-$230
- Pros: Excellent sound for Samsung users, effective ANC, compact design, good call quality.
- Cons: Full audio benefits primarily for Samsung devices, battery life is decent but not exceptional.
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- Key Features: MultiSensor Voice technology for superior call clarity, adjustable ANC and HearThrough, IP57 dust and water resistance, compact design.
- Average Price: $150-$200
- Pros: Outstanding call quality, very durable, comfortable and secure fit, good ANC.
- Cons: ANC can be inconsistent, sound profile is good but not spectacular, charging case is a bit fiddly to open.
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Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
- Key Features: Sennheiser’s signature audiophile sound, adaptive ANC, aptX Adaptive support, IPX4 splash resistance, customizable sound.
- Pros: Superb audio quality, effective adaptive ANC, comfortable fit, wireless charging.
- Cons: Battery life is good but not best-in-class, touch controls can be sensitive, premium price.
The LG Tone Free FP8 isn’t just another pair of earbuds.
It’s a testament to LG’s commitment to innovation, especially in areas often overlooked by competitors.
While it might not dominate every category, it offers a compelling package, particularly for those who appreciate the unique blend of features.
Unpacking the Sound: Meridian Audio and Beyond
When you slip on the LG Tone Free FP8, one of the first things you’ll notice is the sound. LG has continued its collaboration with Meridian Audio, a name synonymous with high-fidelity sound. This partnership isn’t just a marketing gimmick. it genuinely influences the audio profile.
- Balanced Signature: The FP8 aims for a balanced sound signature, which means it doesn’t overly emphasize bass or treble. This makes it versatile for various podcast genres, podcasts, and audiobooks. You’ll find vocals clear, instruments distinct, and a pleasant overall warmth.
- 3D Sound Stage: A notable feature is the 3D Sound Stage, which attempts to create a more immersive, spacious listening experience. It’s not true spatial audio in the vein of some competitors, but it does widen the soundstage, giving instruments and vocals more room to breathe.
- EQ Customization: Through the LG Tone Free app, you have access to several Meridian-tuned EQ presets e.g., Immersive, Bass Boost, Treble Boost and a custom EQ setting. This allows you to tailor the sound to your preference, whether you crave more punch or prefer a flatter, more analytical sound.
- Immersive: Expands the soundstage, good for movies and games.
- Bass Boost: Adds significant low-end thump, ideal for genres like hip-hop or electronic podcast.
- Treble Boost: Enhances clarity in the higher frequencies, useful for podcasts or classical podcast.
- Natural: Meridian’s default balanced tuning.
- Custom: Gives you granular control over different frequency bands.
- Codec Support: The FP8 supports SBC and AAC codecs. While it lacks higher-resolution codecs like aptX or LDAC, the sound quality is still very good for the vast majority of streaming services and devices. For most users, the difference is negligible, especially when streaming standard quality audio.
Real-world usage shows that the Meridian tuning provides a clean, articulate sound that avoids muddiness or harshness.
It’s a sound profile that’s easy to listen to for extended periods without fatigue, which is a major win for daily drivers.
Hygiene First: The UVnano Charging Case
This is where the LG Tone Free FP8 truly stands out from the crowd. The UVnano charging case is LG’s proprietary technology designed to reduce bacteria on the earbuds’ speaker mesh. In a world increasingly conscious of hygiene, this feature is not just a gimmick. it’s a practical benefit.
- How it Works: When the earbuds are placed in the charging case and the lid is closed, the built-in UV-C LEDs activate for a short period typically 5-10 minutes. This UV-C light targets and kills certain types of bacteria.
- Targeted Bacteria: LG claims it reduces up to 99.9% of E. coli and S. aureus on the speaker mesh. While it doesn’t sanitize the entire earbud or prevent new bacteria from forming, it’s a proactive step in maintaining a cleaner listening experience.
- Peace of Mind: For those concerned about ear infections or simply prefer a cleaner device, the UVnano case offers significant peace of mind. It’s a unique selling proposition that none of its direct competitors offer in the same way.
- Practicality: The UV-C light only activates when the case is closed and charging, so it’s a seamless process that doesn’t require extra steps. Just put your earbuds away, and they’re getting a cleanse.
- Health Benefits: While the scientific community continues to study the full impact of UV-C on various pathogens, reducing bacterial buildup in a device that sits directly in your ear is undoubtedly a positive step for personal hygiene. It’s a feature that addresses a real-world concern that many people don’t even realize they have until it’s pointed out.
Consider this: your earbuds are exposed to earwax, skin cells, and environmental dust.
The UVnano case offers a tangible way to mitigate some of the inevitable buildup of microorganisms, differentiating the FP8 significantly. Eufy Floodlight Camera Review
Active Noise Cancellation ANC and Ambient Sound
The LG Tone Free FP8 features active noise cancellation ANC, a staple in premium true wireless earbuds. While it’s effective for daily use, it’s important to set expectations.
- ANC Performance: The ANC on the FP8 is good, particularly for mitigating low-frequency hums like engine noise on a bus or plane, or the drone of an air conditioner. It does a decent job at reducing general office chatter, but it won’t completely silence louder, unpredictable noises or sharp voices.
- Good for: Commutes, office environments, blocking out fan noise.
- Less Effective for: Very loud conversations, construction sounds directly outside.
- Ambient Sound Mode: Conversely, the FP8 also offers an Ambient Sound mode also known as Transparency or Passthrough mode. This feature uses the external microphones to pipe in surrounding sounds, allowing you to stay aware of your environment.
- Use Cases: Crossing a busy street, listening for train announcements, having a quick conversation without removing your earbuds.
- Customization: The LG Tone Free app allows you to adjust the level of ambient sound, giving you control over how much of the outside world you hear. You can even choose between “Listening Mode” general ambient sound and “Conversation Mode” focuses on voices.
- Personalized ANC beta: The app includes a “Personalized ANC” beta feature, which attempts to optimize ANC based on your ear shape. This is an interesting development and could potentially enhance the ANC experience for individual users, though its effectiveness will vary.
- Fit is Key: As with all ANC earbuds, a good seal is crucial. The FP8 comes with multiple ear tip sizes S, M, L to help you achieve the best fit for optimal noise cancellation and sound quality. Without a proper seal, even the best ANC technology will underperform.
Compared to top-tier ANC earbuds like the Sony WF-1000XM4 or Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II, the FP8’s ANC is not quite at that elite level.
However, it’s more than sufficient for most everyday scenarios, offering a significant improvement over earbuds without ANC.
Design, Comfort, and Build Quality
LG has put considerable thought into the design and ergonomics of the Tone Free FP8, prioritizing comfort and a secure fit for extended wear.
- Ergonomic Design: The earbuds feature LG’s “optimized ergonomic design,” which means they are shaped to sit comfortably and securely in the ear canal without protruding too much. They are lightweight, which helps reduce ear fatigue.
- Weight: Each earbud weighs around 5.2g, making them barely noticeable during use.
- Fit: The short stem design keeps them discreet. They fit snugly but not oppressively, making them suitable for active use like jogging or gym workouts.
- Silicone Ear Gels: The FP8 comes with medical-grade, hypoallergenic silicone ear gels. This is a subtle but important detail for sensitive skin and long-term comfort, reducing irritation often associated with lower-quality materials.
- Charging Case: The pebble-shaped charging case is compact and smooth, fitting easily into a pocket. Its matte finish resists fingerprints.
- Indicator Lights: The case has LED indicators for battery status and UVnano activation.
- Wireless Charging: The case supports wireless charging, adding convenience.
- IPX4 Water Resistance: Both the earbuds are rated IPX4, meaning they are resistant to sweat and light splashes of water. This makes them suitable for workouts and outdoor activities, but they are not designed to be submerged in water.
- Build Quality: The overall build quality feels solid and premium, reflecting LG’s attention to detail. The hinges on the charging case are sturdy, and the earbuds themselves feel well-constructed.
In summary, the FP8’s design is a significant strength.
They are among the most comfortable true wireless earbuds on the market, especially for longer listening sessions, and their subtle aesthetic is a plus for those who prefer a less conspicuous look.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a crucial factor for true wireless earbuds, and the LG Tone Free FP8 delivers a respectable performance that should get most users through their day.
- Earbud Battery Life: You can expect up to 6 hours of playback with ANC enabled and around 10 hours with ANC off on a single charge. This is competitive with many other earbuds in its class.
- Total Battery Life with Case: The charging case provides an additional 14 hours of charge with ANC on, bringing the total listening time to 24 hours. With ANC off, the total extends to 24 hours, which is quite impressive.
- Fast Charging: The FP8 features fast charging. A quick 5-minute charge in the case can provide approximately 1 hour of listening time. This is a godsend when you’re in a rush and need a quick boost.
- Wireless Charging: As mentioned, the case supports wireless charging, making it convenient to top up using any Qi-compatible charging pad. This eliminates the need to constantly plug in the case and adds to the overall user experience.
- USB-C Charging: For wired charging, the case uses a standard USB-C port, which is widely adopted and convenient.
- Battery Status Indicators: The LED indicators on the charging case clearly show the remaining battery life of the case itself, and the companion app provides a precise percentage for both the earbuds and the case.
While some competitors might offer slightly longer total battery life, the combination of decent earbud playback, ample case charges, fast charging, and wireless charging makes the FP8 a very practical choice for daily use.
You won’t often find yourself scrambling for a charger.
Call Quality and Connectivity
Effective communication is just as important as good audio for many earbud users. Facebook Portal Plus 2021 Review
The LG Tone Free FP8 offers a solid, though not always class-leading, experience in this regard.
- Microphone Setup: Each earbud is equipped with three microphones to enhance voice pickup and filter out ambient noise during calls. This multi-mic array helps separate your voice from background distractions.
- Call Quality Performance: In quiet environments, call quality is generally excellent. Your voice comes through clear and natural. In noisier environments, such as a busy street or a café, the noise reduction algorithms work to suppress background sounds. However, they can sometimes make your voice sound slightly compressed or distant.
- Pros: Clear voice in quiet settings, decent noise reduction for moderate noise.
- Cons: Can struggle with strong wind noise, voice can sound slightly processed in very loud environments.
- Bluetooth 5.2: The FP8 utilizes Bluetooth 5.2, which offers several advantages:
- Improved Connection Stability: Bluetooth 5.2 provides a more robust and stable connection, reducing dropouts and latency.
- Energy Efficiency: It contributes to better battery life.
- Enhanced Range: You can typically maintain a solid connection up to 10-15 meters 30-50 feet from your device in open spaces.
- Fast Pairing: Pairing with Android devices is seamless thanks to Google Fast Pair. For iOS users, the process is still straightforward through standard Bluetooth pairing.
- Multi-Device Pairing No: One notable absence is multi-point connectivity, meaning the FP8 cannot be simultaneously connected to two devices e.g., your phone and your laptop and seamlessly switch between them. This is a feature found on some higher-end earbuds and can be a convenience factor for power users. You’ll need to manually disconnect from one device to connect to another.
- Low Latency Gaming Mode: The LG Tone Free app includes a “Game Mode” which is designed to reduce audio latency. This is particularly beneficial for mobile gaming or watching videos, ensuring that audio and video remain synchronized. While it’s not imperceptible, it significantly improves the experience over standard modes.
Overall, the call quality is good for most everyday conversations, and the Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity provides a reliable and stable link.
The lack of multi-point connectivity is a minor drawback for some, but the low latency mode is a welcome addition for media consumption.
The LG Tone Free App and User Experience
The LG Tone Free companion app available for iOS and Android is essential for unlocking the full potential of the FP8 earbuds. It offers a range of customization options and features that enhance the user experience.
- Intuitive Interface: The app features a clean and intuitive interface, making it easy to navigate and adjust settings.
- Customization Options:
- EQ Presets & Custom EQ: As discussed, you can choose from Meridian-tuned presets or create your own custom equalizer settings. This level of audio personalization is a big plus.
- ANC/Ambient Sound Control: Toggle between ANC, Ambient Sound, and Off modes. Adjust ambient sound levels and choose between “Listening Mode” and “Conversation Mode.”
- Touchpad Controls: Customize the touch controls on each earbud. You can assign functions like play/pause, skip tracks, volume control, activate voice assistant, and toggle ANC/Ambient modes. This flexibility allows you to tailor the controls to your personal workflow.
- Single tap: Play/Pause, Answer/End call
- Double tap: Skip forward, Volume up/down customizable, Reject call
- Triple tap: Skip backward, Volume up/down customizable
- Touch & Hold: Toggle ANC/Ambient Sound, Activate voice assistant customizable
- Game Mode: Activate the low-latency mode for improved audio-visual sync.
- Whispering Mode: This unique feature allows you to hold one earbud close to your mouth and whisper into it for private calls. The earbud acts as a directional microphone, ideal for sensitive conversations in public spaces.
- Find My Earbuds: If you misplace an earbud, the app can play a loud beeping sound to help you locate it within Bluetooth range.
- Firmware Updates: The app is also where you’ll receive and install firmware updates for your earbuds, which can improve performance, add new features, or fix bugs.
- Ear Tip Fit Test: A useful tool that helps you determine if you have the best ear tip size for optimal sound and ANC performance.
- Privacy Mode Unique Feature: This feature uses the earbud as a dedicated microphone for private calls by holding it up to your mouth. It’s a clever solution for confidential conversations in noisy or public environments.
- Minor Glitches: While generally robust, some users might experience occasional minor glitches with the app, such as a slight delay in registering changes or needing to reconnect. However, these are rare and usually resolved quickly.
The LG Tone Free app is a strong complement to the hardware, transforming the FP8 from just a pair of earbuds into a highly customizable personal audio device.
The ability to fine-tune sound, controls, and activate unique features significantly enhances the overall user experience.
Value Proposition and Competition
When considering the LG Tone Free FP8, its value proposition becomes clear, especially when weighed against its competitors.
It’s positioned as a mid-range to upper-mid-range offering, delivering a unique set of features that justify its price point.
- Competitive Pricing: The FP8 typically retails in the $120-$150 range. At this price, it competes with strong contenders like the Samsung Galaxy Buds2, Jabra Elite 75t/85t, and even some older generations of Apple AirPods.
- Key Differentiators:
- UVnano Case: This is arguably the FP8’s strongest unique selling point. No other mainstream earbuds at this price point offer built-in UV-C sterilization for hygiene. For germ-conscious individuals, this alone could be a deciding factor.
- Meridian Audio Tuning: While sound quality is subjective, the Meridian partnership ensures a refined and balanced audio profile that stands out from generic tunings. The custom EQ options further enhance this.
- Comfort and Ergonomics: The lightweight, ergonomic design makes them exceptionally comfortable for extended listening sessions, surpassing many bulkier competitors.
- Whispering Mode: This niche but highly effective feature for private calls is another unique offering that adds practical value.
- Areas Where It Falls Short Compared to Premium Offerings:
- ANC Performance: While good, it doesn’t match the industry-leading noise cancellation of the Sony WF-1000XM4 or Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II. These premium options come at a significantly higher price, however.
- Call Quality in Extreme Noise: While generally good, it can struggle with very high wind or extremely loud background noise compared to dedicated call-focused earbuds like the Jabra Elite 7 Pro.
- No Multi-Point Connectivity: This is a convenience feature increasingly expected in higher-end earbuds that the FP8 lacks.
- Codec Support: The absence of aptX or LDAC might deter audiophiles, but for the average user streaming from services like Spotify or Apple Podcast, AAC and SBC are perfectly adequate.
- Who Is It For? The LG Tone Free FP8 is ideal for:
- Individuals prioritizing hygiene and cleanliness in their earbuds.
- Those who value comfortable, lightweight earbuds for long listening sessions.
- Listeners who appreciate a balanced and customizable sound profile.
- Commuters or office workers needing effective, but not necessarily best-in-class, ANC.
- Users looking for good overall value with a unique feature set.
The FP8 isn’t trying to be the best at everything, but it excels in its niche, particularly with the UVnano feature and its focus on comfort.
For its price, it offers a compelling package that deserves strong consideration. Qualcomm Qc710 Developer Kit Review
It’s a pragmatic choice for someone who wants solid performance without breaking the bank on flagship models, with the added bonus of innovative hygiene.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the LG Tone Free FP8?
The LG Tone Free FP8 are true wireless earbuds offering active noise cancellation, Meridian Audio tuning, and a unique UVnano charging case that helps sanitize the earbuds.
What is UVnano technology in the LG Tone Free FP8?
UVnano technology in the LG Tone Free FP8’s charging case uses built-in UV-C LEDs to reduce up to 99.9% of bacteria on the earbuds’ speaker mesh during charging.
How effective is the active noise cancellation ANC on the LG Tone Free FP8?
The ANC on the LG Tone Free FP8 is good for everyday use, effectively reducing low-frequency hums like engine noise and general office chatter, though it’s not class-leading compared to premium models.
Does the LG Tone Free FP8 support wireless charging?
Yes, the LG Tone Free FP8’s charging case supports wireless charging, making it convenient to power up using any Qi-compatible charging pad.
How long does the battery last on the LG Tone Free FP8?
The LG Tone Free FP8 earbuds offer up to 6 hours of playback with ANC on 10 hours with ANC off, with the charging case providing an additional 14 hours for a total of 24 hours of listening time.
Is the LG Tone Free FP8 comfortable for long listening sessions?
Yes, the LG Tone Free FP8 is designed for comfort, featuring an ergonomic, lightweight build and medical-grade silicone ear gels, making them suitable for extended wear.
Can I customize the sound of the LG Tone Free FP8?
Yes, you can customize the sound using the LG Tone Free app, which offers Meridian-tuned EQ presets and a custom equalizer setting to tailor the audio to your preferences.
What Bluetooth version does the LG Tone Free FP8 use?
The LG Tone Free FP8 uses Bluetooth 5.2, providing stable connectivity, improved energy efficiency, and a good wireless range.
Does the LG Tone Free FP8 have a low latency mode for gaming or videos?
Yes, the LG Tone Free app includes a “Game Mode” specifically designed to reduce audio latency, improving synchronization for mobile gaming and video watching. Hp Chromebase All In One 22 Review
Is the LG Tone Free FP8 water resistant?
Yes, the LG Tone Free FP8 earbuds are rated IPX4, meaning they are resistant to sweat and light splashes of water, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor activities.
How is the call quality on the LG Tone Free FP8?
Call quality on the LG Tone Free FP8 is generally good in quiet environments, with three microphones on each earbud for voice pickup.
In noisy settings, noise reduction is decent but can sometimes slightly compress your voice.
Does the LG Tone Free FP8 support multi-point connectivity?
No, the LG Tone Free FP8 does not support multi-point connectivity, meaning you cannot connect them to two devices simultaneously and seamlessly switch between them.
What is the “Whispering Mode” on the LG Tone Free FP8?
“Whispering Mode” is a unique feature in the LG Tone Free app that allows you to hold one earbud close to your mouth and whisper into it for private calls, acting as a directional microphone.
Are there different ear tip sizes included with the LG Tone Free FP8?
Yes, the LG Tone Free FP8 comes with multiple sizes of medical-grade, hypoallergenic silicone ear gels S, M, L to ensure a secure and comfortable fit for optimal sound and ANC.
How long does it take to fully charge the LG Tone Free FP8 earbuds?
The earbuds can achieve about 1 hour of listening time with just a 5-minute fast charge in the case, while a full charge takes longer but is generally quick.
Can I use just one earbud at a time with the LG Tone Free FP8?
Yes, you can use either the left or right earbud independently for mono listening or calls.
What voice assistants are compatible with the LG Tone Free FP8?
The LG Tone Free FP8 is compatible with common voice assistants like Google Assistant and Apple Siri, which can be activated through customizable touch controls.
How do I update the firmware on my LG Tone Free FP8?
Firmware updates for the LG Tone Free FP8 are managed and installed directly through the LG Tone Free companion app. Amazon Echo Show 15 Review
Is the LG Tone Free FP8 good for workouts?
Yes, with its secure and comfortable fit, lightweight design, and IPX4 water resistance, the LG Tone Free FP8 is well-suited for workouts and light exercise.
How do I find my lost LG Tone Free FP8 earbuds?
The LG Tone Free app includes a “Find My Earbuds” feature that can play a loud beeping sound from the misplaced earbud to help you locate it within Bluetooth range.
Does the LG Tone Free FP8 have customizable touch controls?
Yes, the LG Tone Free app allows you to fully customize the touch controls on each earbud, assigning functions like play/pause, volume, track skipping, and voice assistant activation.
What kind of audio codecs does the LG Tone Free FP8 support?
The LG Tone Free FP8 supports SBC and AAC audio codecs, which provide good quality audio for most streaming services and devices.
What is the price range of the LG Tone Free FP8?
The LG Tone Free FP8 typically retails in the $120-$150 range, positioning it as a strong mid-to-upper-mid-range option in the true wireless earbud market.
Is the LG Tone Free FP8 suitable for audiophiles?
While the LG Tone Free FP8 offers good, balanced sound with Meridian tuning, dedicated audiophiles seeking lossless audio or specific high-resolution codecs might prefer other options.
Does the UVnano feature consume much battery?
The UVnano feature activates for a short period during charging and is designed to be energy-efficient, having minimal impact on the overall battery life of the charging case.
Can I adjust the level of ambient sound on the LG Tone Free FP8?
Yes, through the LG Tone Free app, you can adjust the intensity of the ambient sound mode and choose between “Listening Mode” and “Conversation Mode.”
What are the main advantages of the LG Tone Free FP8 over its competitors?
The main advantages of the LG Tone Free FP8 are its unique UVnano hygiene feature, ergonomic comfort, balanced Meridian Audio tuning, and competitive pricing for its feature set.
How does the LG Tone Free FP8 compare to the Apple AirPods Pro 2?
The LG Tone Free FP8 offers unique hygiene features and strong comfort, while the Apple AirPods Pro 2 excels in ANC, seamless Apple ecosystem integration, and spatial audio, typically at a higher price point. Beelink Gk Mini Review
Is there a companion app for the LG Tone Free FP8?
Yes, the LG Tone Free app is available for both iOS and Android, offering extensive customization options and control over the earbuds’ features.
Does the LG Tone Free FP8 have a physical button or touch controls?
The LG Tone Free FP8 features intuitive touch controls on the earbuds, which can be customized via the companion app for various functions.
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