A Kickstarter project for a product called Batband promises a unique wireless and earless headphone experience.
Batband
Using bone conduction technology, Batband emits sound waves which are picked up by the wearer’s inner ear, allowing them to still perceive outside sounds while using the device. This is promoted a a key advantage over traditional headphones.
Horseshoe-shaped and worn on the back of the head, Batband features several touch-sensitive controls on the side which allows users to take calls or skip to the next song. It can be paired with a mobile device using Bluetooth for calls and listening music.
While Batband can be used for any audio experience, the bass frequency is currently limited to 300hz, although the makers claim to have achieved frequencies below 100hz in lab tests. The low frequency range of music is around 20hz, meaning that music on a Batband device may lack some of the bass range delivered by standard headphones. The makers note, however, that “…we are constantly improving on this field.”
The product is produced by Studio Banana Things and is available for Kickstarter pre-orders for $149. It is expected to begin full scale production in December 2015, with an April 2016 shipment date. The retail price is expected to be $250.
If you can’t wait for Batband, there are a number of bone conduction devices for sale on Amazon, for as low as $40. While many of those products are offered as headphones, they don’t appear to include many of the smartphone-paired features as included with Batband.
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