A very interesting read with some good suggestions. Though, I would like to add a couple of things to what has been said already.
In an era where we are surrounded by technology with an incredibly large list of personalization options, I think that earphones are lagging behind. Like Rob ⚡️ said, an app to modify or adjust the controls and receive updates could play a big role in the overall user experience and tip the scales in Ear 1’s favour.
My ideal-dreamed-app would also have an option to create EQ profiles, depending on the genre of music you are about to listen to. Going even further, it’d have an automated option that allows the app to recognize what’s playing and adjust accordingly, when your playlist is a mix of opposite songs in terms of musical styles.
Another in-app setting would be the personalization of how long the earphones are on until they turn off by themselves. This would save battery and if you fall asleep using the earphones, they would not be dead after playing hours of music, podcasts, videos, etc.
Adaptive Sound, a feature included in the Pixel Buds, is also another interesting idea that could be improved with the option to create profiles that would work along the GPS, assigning each profile to your usual places.
For example, when you are approaching your workplace, the ANC turns off and lowers the volume to let you hear your colleagues welcoming you; and if you are on your way home through noisy streets or public transport, the ANC automatically sets you in your own bubble.
