Audio T Verdict
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 is the flagship model in the company’s true wireless earbud range, combining an open, highly detailed sound with premium materials, effective noise cancellation and a comfortable in-ear design.
Its 12mm Carbon Cone drive units, dedicated digital processing and amplifier/DAC architecture provide a clear step up in refinement, control and detail, while aptX Lossless can deliver a particularly high-quality Bluetooth connection with compatible source equipment.
The smart charging case is a genuine highlight. As well as supporting USB-C and wireless charging, it can accept audio from USB-C or a 3.5mm analogue output and retransmit it wirelessly to the earbuds.
Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 Reference True Wireless Earbuds
The Pi8 is Bowers & Wilkins’ reference true wireless in-ear headphone, designed for listeners who want the company’s highest-performing portable earbud system.
Each earbud uses a 12mm Carbon Cone drive unit supported by dedicated digital processing, amplification and digital-to-analogue conversion.
Bluetooth 5.4, aptX Lossless, adaptive Active Noise Cancellation, multipoint connectivity, touch controls and a retransmitting smart charging case make the Pi8 suitable for music, calls, travel and everyday mobile listening.
12mm Carbon Cone Drive Units
Each Pi8 earbud contains a 12mm Carbon Cone drive unit engineered to reduce distortion and improve high-frequency detail.
The reinforced cone is designed to remain rigid while moving, helping it respond accurately to rapid changes within the music rather than adding unwanted resonance or blur.
This contributes to a clear, controlled and revealing presentation with precise treble, natural vocals and well-defined bass.
Dedicated Processing, Amplification and DAC
The Pi8 uses high-performance digital signal processing with dedicated amplification and digital-to-analogue conversion.
This integrated architecture allows Bowers & Wilkins to control the complete audio path, including wireless decoding, equalisation, noise cancellation and the final signal delivered to each Carbon Cone driver.
Careful control of these stages helps the earbuds retain clarity and dynamic expression across different listening levels and Bluetooth sources.
True 24-Bit Wireless Connection
The Pi8 supports a true 24-bit audio connection when partnered with compatible equipment.
Actual connection quality depends on the transmitting device, selected codec, source material and surrounding wireless conditions.
The earbuds automatically negotiate an appropriate Bluetooth codec with the connected source rather than requiring the user to select one manually.
Source Compatibility Matters
To benefit from aptX Lossless or aptX Adaptive, the connected phone, tablet or computer must support the same technology.
Devices without aptX support can still connect using another mutually supported codec, such as AAC or SBC.
aptX Lossless
aptX Lossless is the highest-quality Bluetooth codec supported by the Pi8.
With compatible source equipment and suitable wireless conditions, it is designed to preserve more of the information contained within the original audio signal.
The Pi8 also supports aptX Adaptive, aptX Classic, AAC and SBC, maintaining compatibility across a broad range of Android, Apple and computer products.
Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation
The Pi8 uses built-in microphones and digital processing to reduce unwanted environmental noise.
Its advanced Active Noise Cancellation system adapts to the surrounding conditions, helping reduce distractions from public transport, offices, aircraft cabins and other busy environments.
The system is designed to provide effective noise reduction without sacrificing the sound quality and tonal balance of the music.
Ambient Pass-Through
Ambient Pass-Through uses the external microphones to allow surrounding sound into the listening experience.
This can be useful when listening for travel announcements, holding a brief conversation or becoming more aware of the immediate surroundings.
Noise Cancellation, Pass-Through and environmental processing can be controlled through the touch-sensitive surfaces or the Bowers & Wilkins Music app.
Pass-Through Is Not a Safety Guarantee
Ambient Pass-Through can improve awareness, but it is not a substitute for normal attention and judgement.
Remove the earbuds whenever complete awareness is required, particularly near traffic, machinery, railway platforms or other potential hazards.
Three Microphones Per Earbud
Each Pi8 contains three microphones used for calls and Active Noise Cancellation.
The microphone system is designed to capture the wearer’s voice while managing environmental sound, helping speech remain clear during calls and online meetings.
Call quality will also depend on the connected device, mobile network, application and level of surrounding noise.
Premium Ergonomic Design
The shape of the Pi8 has been designed to sit securely within the ear while avoiding unnecessary pressure.
Premium materials and carefully considered contact points help provide a comfortable fit for extended music listening, commuting and travel.
Each earbud weighs approximately 7g, keeping the complete in-ear assembly compact and manageable.
Four Ear-Tip Sizes
Extra-small, small, medium and large silicone ear tips are supplied.
The medium tips are fitted as standard, although the most suitable size may differ between the left and right ears.
A correct fit should create a secure acoustic seal without producing uncomfortable pressure.
Try Every Ear-Tip Size
The ear-tip seal has a significant effect on comfort, bass response and noise-cancelling performance.
Insert each earbud and twist it slightly backwards until it rests securely. A different size may be required for each ear.
Enhanced Wear Sensing
Wear sensors in both earbuds can pause playback when either Pi8 is removed from the ear.
Playback resumes automatically when the earbud is returned, allowing the music to respond naturally without reaching for the connected device.
The sensors also help conserve battery power when the earbuds are removed and left outside the charging case.
Wear sensing can be enabled or disabled through the Bowers & Wilkins Music app.
Touch-Sensitive Controls
Each earbud has a touch-sensitive multifunction area on its outer surface.
The controls provide access to music playback, track selection, calls, Voice Assistance and environmental modes.
Selected press-and-hold functions can be customised through the Music app, allowing the controls to better suit the user’s preferred setup.
Bluetooth 5.4
Bluetooth 5.4 provides the principal wireless connection between the Pi8 and compatible phones, tablets and computers.
The earbuds enter pairing mode when the case is opened for the first time. Further devices can be added manually or with assistance from the Bowers & Wilkins Music app.
Apple Made for iPhone support and Google Fast Pair on compatible Android devices help simplify the initial setup process.
Multipoint Connectivity
Multipoint allows the Pi8 to remain connected to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously.
This is useful when working across a phone and computer, allowing music to be played from one device while remaining available for calls from the other.
Only one connected device can play audio or handle a call at a time. Pausing the first source and starting playback on the second prompts the earbuds to change connection.
Calls Take Priority
If a call arrives on the second connected device while music is playing from the first, playback will pause and the call will be routed to the Pi8.
Current and previously paired devices can be managed through the Bowers & Wilkins Music app.
Bowers & Wilkins Music App
The Bowers & Wilkins Music app is available for compatible iOS and Android devices.
It provides guided setup, access to compatible music services and control over the Pi8’s principal features.
Available adjustments include:
- Active Noise Cancellation
- Ambient Pass-Through
- Environmental processing switched off
- Five-band sound adjustment
- TrueSound mode
- Wear-sensor control
- Bluetooth connection management
- Battery information
- Product renaming
- Firmware updates
The Pi8 can be used as a conventional Bluetooth earbud without the app, but installing it provides access to the complete feature set and future software updates.
Five-Band Customisable EQ
The Music app provides five-band equalisation for adjusting the tonal balance of the Pi8.
This allows more detailed control than the two-band adjustment provided with the Pi6.
Start with the controls in their neutral positions and make modest changes. Excessive equalisation can reduce headroom or make recordings sound unnatural.
TrueSound Mode
TrueSound mode bypasses the user’s tonal customisation and returns the Pi8 to the balance intended by Bowers & Wilkins.
This provides a convenient reference point when comparing EQ settings or moving between recordings with very different production styles.
TrueSound does not alter the quality of the source connection or replace the need for a secure ear-tip seal.
Smart Retransmitting Charging Case
The Pi8 charging case does more than store and charge the earbuds.
It can accept audio from a compatible USB-C or 3.5mm analogue source and retransmit that signal wirelessly to the Pi8 using aptX Adaptive.
This allows the earbuds to be used with equipment that does not provide its own Bluetooth headphone connection.
Using the Case with a 3.5mm Source
The supplied 3.5mm-to-USB-C audio cable connects the case to a conventional headphone output.
This can be useful with aircraft entertainment systems, portable audio players, older computers and other products with a standard analogue headphone socket.
Compatibility and output level can vary between source devices, particularly with specialist aircraft connectors or heavily recessed sockets.
Using the Case with USB-C Audio
The supplied USB-C-to-USB-C cable can connect the charging case to a compatible USB audio source.
The case then receives the digital signal and retransmits it wirelessly to the earbuds.
When first connecting to a computer, it may be necessary to select Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 as the audio-output device within the operating system.
Retransmission Is for Listening
The case transmits audio from the connected analogue or USB source to the earbuds.
Microphone signals are not sent back through the case, so this connection should not be treated as a two-way wired headset system for calls or meetings.
Starting Audio Retransmission
Remove the earbuds from the charging case and close its lid.
Connect the appropriate supplied cable between the source device and the USB-C socket on the case, then begin playback.
The case should automatically begin retransmitting the audio, with its status light flashing white while the feature is active.
Wireless Charging
The Pi8 charging case supports charging from a compatible wireless charging station.
Place the rear of the case centrally on the charging surface with the Bowers & Wilkins logo facing upwards.
The wireless charging station is not supplied and must be obtained separately.
USB-C Charging
The case can also be charged through its USB-C socket using the supplied 60cm USB-C-to-USB-C cable.
The cable can connect to a suitable USB power supply or powered computer port.
A mains charging adaptor is not listed among the supplied accessories and may need to be obtained separately.
Six-and-a-Half-Hour Earbud Battery Life
The Pi8 provides up to 6.5 hours of earbud playback with Active Noise Cancellation enabled.
Battery life will vary according to listening volume, codec, calls, environmental processing, wireless conditions, temperature and general use.
Battery information can be viewed through the Music app or checked using the status indicator on the charging case.
Up to 20 Hours with the Charging Case
The charging case provides up to 13.5 additional hours, giving a combined total of up to 20 hours before the case itself must be recharged.
Placing the earbuds in the case automatically switches them into standby and begins charging.
The case should be closed after the earbuds are inserted so they remain secure and ready for the next listening session.
Fast Charging
A 15-minute charge provides up to two hours of additional playback.
This is useful before a commute, meeting or short journey when there is not enough time for a complete charge.
The official product specification lists a charge time of approximately two hours. The current manual advises allowing up to three hours when fully charging the earbuds and case, particularly before first use.
Maintain the Batteries
Bowers & Wilkins recommends fully charging the earbuds and case before first use and approximately every three weeks during extended periods of storage.
Battery capacity will gradually reduce through normal use and ageing.
IP54-Rated Earbuds
The Pi8 earbuds carry an IP54 rating for resistance to limited dust ingress and splashing water.
This makes them suitable for commuting, travel and many exercise sessions when used appropriately.
The rating applies to the earbuds, not the charging case. The Pi8 is not intended for swimming, showering, submersion or exposure to powerful water jets.
Keep the Charging Case Dry
Do not expose the charging case, audio socket or USB-C connection to rain, sweat or other moisture.
Allow damp earbuds to dry completely before returning them to the case, and never attempt to charge the product while a connection is wet.
Exercise and Everyday Use
The ergonomic fit and IP54-rated earbuds make the Pi8 suitable for walking, commuting and many gym routines.
Check the fit before beginning vigorous movement, particularly after cleaning the earbuds or changing the ear tips.
The Pi8 is not designed for swimming, water sports or activities where the earbuds may become submerged.
Using One Earbud
Individual-earbud operation may be possible in suitable situations, although control functions, microphone behaviour and environmental processing may differ.
For the intended stereo, noise-cancelling and call performance, use both earbuds whenever practical.
When using only one earbud, take additional care to remain aware of the surrounding environment.
Cleaning and Care
Clean the earbuds and case using a soft, clean cloth that is dry or only lightly dampened.
Do not use detergents, rubbing alcohol, solvents, chemical cleaners or abrasive materials.
Inspect the ear tips and acoustic openings regularly, as a build-up of dirt or earwax can affect fit, volume, noise cancellation and tonal balance.
Ensure that the earbuds and case are dry before charging or storage.
Software Updates
Bowers & Wilkins may release firmware updates that refine performance, resolve issues or add features.
The Music app will provide a notification when an update is available and guide the user through the installation.
Keep the earbuds and case adequately charged and close to the phone while an update is taking place.
Pi8 or Pi6?
The Pi8 is the reference model, using Carbon Cone drivers, aptX Lossless, dedicated amplifier/DAC architecture, five-band EQ and a retransmitting case with wireless charging.
The Pi6 uses bio-cellulose drivers, aptX Adaptive and a simpler charging case without wireless charging or audio retransmission.
The Pi6 offers longer earbud battery life, while the Pi8 concentrates on maximum sound quality, more extensive app adjustment and greater connection flexibility.
Finish Options
Audio T currently lists:
- Anthracite Black
- Dove White
- Jade Green
The wider Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 range also includes:
- Midnight Blue
- Dark Burgundy
- Pale Mauve
Availability can vary by finish, so check the current product options or contact Audio T before ordering.
Key Features
- Reference true wireless in-ear earbuds
- Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation
- Ambient Pass-Through
- One 12mm Carbon Cone drive unit per earbud
- High-performance digital signal processing
- Dedicated amplifier and digital-to-analogue conversion
- True 24-bit connection with compatible equipment
- Bluetooth 5.4
- aptX Lossless support
- aptX Adaptive, aptX Classic, AAC and SBC compatibility
- Multipoint connection for two devices
- Three microphones per earbud
- Touch-sensitive multifunction controls
- Voice Assistant access
- Enhanced wear-sensing pause and resume
- Bowers & Wilkins Music app support
- Five-band customisable EQ
- TrueSound mode
- Apple Made for iPhone support
- Google Fast Pair on compatible Android devices
- Smart charging case with audio retransmission
- USB-C digital audio retransmission
- 3.5mm analogue audio retransmission
- Wireless charging support
- USB-C charging
- Up to 6.5 hours of earbud playback with ANC enabled
- Additional 13.5 hours from the charging case
- Up to 20 hours of combined playback
- 15-minute fast charge for up to two hours of playback
- IP54-rated earbuds
- Four ear-tip sizes included
- 7g weight per earbud
- 46g charging-case weight
- Six manufacturer finish options
- Two-year limited manufacturer’s warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included with the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8?
The package contains the left and right Pi8 earbuds, smart charging case, extra-small, small, medium and large ear tips, a 60cm USB-C-to-USB-C cable, an 80cm 3.5mm-to-USB-C audio cable and documentation.
Do the Pi8 earbuds have noise cancellation?
Yes. They include adaptive Active Noise Cancellation and Ambient Pass-Through.
What is Ambient Pass-Through?
It uses the built-in microphones to allow some external sound to be heard without removing the earbuds.
What drivers does the Pi8 use?
Each earbud contains one 12mm Carbon Cone drive unit.
What is aptX Lossless?
It is the highest-quality Bluetooth codec supported by the Pi8. A compatible source device and suitable wireless conditions are required.
Does aptX Lossless work with every phone?
No. The transmitting device must also support aptX Lossless. Otherwise, the Pi8 will use another mutually supported codec.
Which Bluetooth codecs are supported?
The Pi8 supports aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, aptX Classic, AAC and SBC.
Which Bluetooth version does the Pi8 use?
The Pi8 uses Bluetooth 5.4.
Can it connect to two devices?
Yes. Multipoint allows the Pi8 to remain connected to two compatible devices, although only one can play audio or handle a call at a time.
Can the Pi8 be used with an iPhone?
Yes. It supports standard Bluetooth audio, Apple Made for iPhone operation and the Bowers & Wilkins Music app for compatible iOS devices.
Can the Pi8 be used with Android?
Yes. It supports Bluetooth pairing, the Music app and Google Fast Pair on compatible Android devices.
Can it connect to a Windows PC or Mac?
Yes. The Pi8 can connect directly through Bluetooth or receive computer audio through its retransmitting charging case.
What does the smart charging case do?
It stores and charges the earbuds, supports wireless charging and can receive audio from USB-C or a 3.5mm output before retransmitting it wirelessly to the Pi8.
Can the Pi8 connect to an aircraft entertainment system?
Potentially. The included 3.5mm-to-USB-C cable can connect the case to many conventional headphone outputs, although aircraft-system sockets and compatibility can vary.
Can the smart case be used for calls?
The case retransmits audio to the earbuds, but it does not return the earbud microphone signal to the connected analogue or USB source.
Does the Pi8 support USB audio?
Yes. A compatible USB-C audio source can connect to the charging case, which retransmits the audio wirelessly to the earbuds.
Does the Pi8 support wireless charging?
Yes. The case can be charged on a compatible wireless charging station, which is sold separately.
How long does the Pi8 battery last?
The earbuds provide up to 6.5 hours of playback with Active Noise Cancellation enabled.
What is the total battery life?
The case provides a further 13.5 hours, giving up to 20 hours of combined playback under the manufacturer’s test conditions.
How quickly does the Pi8 charge?
A 15-minute fast charge provides up to two hours of playback. The product specification lists approximately two hours for charging, while the current manual advises allowing up to three hours for a complete charge.
Does the Pi8 have microphones for calls?
Yes. Each earbud contains three microphones used for calls and Active Noise Cancellation.
Do the earbuds pause when removed?
Yes. Wear sensors can pause playback when either earbud is removed and resume it when the earbud is replaced.
Can wear sensing be switched off?
Yes. The feature can be disabled through the Bowers & Wilkins Music app.
Can the sound be adjusted?
Yes. The Music app provides five-band customisable equalisation and a TrueSound mode that bypasses tonal adjustment.
Are the Pi8 earbuds waterproof?
No. The earbuds are rated IP54 for limited resistance to dust and splashing water. They are not intended for swimming, showering or submersion.
Is the charging case water resistant?
No water-resistance rating is specified for the charging case, so it should be kept dry.
Can the Pi8 be used at the gym?
Yes. The secure fit and IP54-rated earbuds make them suitable for many exercise sessions, provided they are not submerged or exposed to excessive moisture.
Which ear-tip sizes are included?
Extra-small, small, medium and large silicone ear tips are included. The medium tips are fitted as standard.
How much does each earbud weigh?
Each Pi8 earbud weighs approximately 7g.
How much does the charging case weigh?
The smart charging case weighs approximately 46g.
How large is the charging case?
The case measures 65mm wide, 29mm deep and 52mm high.
How does the Pi8 differ from the Pi6?
The Pi8 uses Carbon Cone drivers, aptX Lossless, five-band EQ and a smart case with wireless charging and audio retransmission. The Pi6 uses bio-cellulose drivers, aptX Adaptive, two-band EQ and a standard USB-C charging case.
Which finishes are available?
The full manufacturer range includes Anthracite Black, Dove White, Jade Green, Midnight Blue, Dark Burgundy and Pale Mauve. Audio T availability may vary.
What warranty is included?
Bowers & Wilkins provides a two-year limited warranty for headphones, subject to its current terms and conditions.
Related Bowers & Wilkins Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Bowers & Wilkins headphone demonstrations
- Advice on ear-tip size and fit
- Help comparing Pi8 and Pi6
- Bluetooth codec and device-compatibility guidance
- Smart-case retransmission setup support
- Pairing and multipoint assistance
- Music app, EQ and firmware-update guidance
- Noise-cancellation and Pass-Through setup advice
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss whether the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 is right for your listening.