The Apple AirPods started the "true wireless" earphones trend and now it looks like Mobvoi has come up with its own version. Called the TicPods Free, the new AirPods competitor is a more affordable alternative that costs $129. For the unaware, Mobvoi is the same company behind the TicHome Mini Google Assistant speaker and the TicWatch smartwatches. With a smart speaker and smartwatches already under its belt, the company is now taking on the Apple AirPods head on with the TicPods Free. The TicPods Free comes with two separate earbuds that do not feature any wires.

It has barely been 24 hours since the campaign began, and the smart and seamless, TicPods Free by Mobvoi have already raised USD 229,994 thanks to 2487 backers. Described as the most interactive earbuds by Mobvoi, the stylish Human-machine Interaction device offers an experience that includes ultimate touch controls, optimised Bluetooth connectivity and clear, crisp audio. Founded in 2012 by ex-Googlers, Mobvoi aspires to define the next generation of human-machine interaction. Their engineers strive to innovate tech products that seamlessly integrate cutting-edge technology into daily life. To date, Mobvoi has raised six rounds of funding, led by firms including SIG, Sequoia Capital, Zhenfund, Google and Volkswagen.

Apple's AirPods could have a new rival in the wireless earbuds world, with an affordable alternative now up for pre-order in the form of Mobvoi's TicPods Free. You may know Mobvoi from its Ticwatch line of Android Wear smartwatches, which we've reported on before. Just launched on crowdfunding platform Indiegogo, the TicPods Free are available for the'early bird' pre-order price of $59 or £42 – approximately £120 less than the AirPods' RRP. Key features of the TicPods include cross-platform smart assistant compatibility, with Google Assistant, Siri and Alexa all supported as AI helpers. There's also a number of touch-based controls on-board: swipe up and down on the stem of the TicPods to adjust the volume, double tap to answer or end a call, and long-press for two seconds to activate your voice assistant or (if you're feeling really mean) reject a call.