Skip to main content

Sony unveils prototype 'headphones' of the future


Sony's newly-formed R&D outfit, Future Lab, has showcased a prototype pair of headphones (or should I say neckphones) that let you listen to music without buds or over-the-ear pads. Called Concept N, the Bluetooth device features built-in speakers that project sound up to the user's ears, providing full fidelity stereo sound and comfort.

The idea behind Concept N is to create a system for listening while trying to retain background noise for when you're traveling or commuting. According to Venture Beat, the headphones respond to voice prompts, and is equipped with a camera, sensors, and a GPS feature. The device also comes with a pair of earbuds for those who want a traditional listening experience. Those buds, however, come punctured with holes in the middle, so you're still able to, say, hold a conversation while listening to your favorite tracks.

No word yet on an official release date for Concept N, but hopefully it will hit shelves later this year.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

James DeRosso's ceramic monsters

I really like these whimsical ceramic creatures by James DeRosso. Yes, they have bulging eyes and toothy grins, but they're not scary at all. The Portland-based artist started making cute monsters while he was a student to jokingly create gargoyle-like guardians for the kiln. After other students kept taking his quirky little figures, he realized there was a market for them. "I'm enjoying the whole monster making niche," James says. "It's amazingly gratifying to be doing ceramics full time and especially to be a teacher introducing kids to the joy of clay." Be sure to visit his website and like his Facebook page for the latest monster news.

Julia Lohmann's Highly Imaginative Approach to Product Design

Chess pieces made from animal bones, cowhides reconstructed into benches, lamps created from preserved sheep stomachs, large-scale installations made of edible seaweed: the work of Julia Lohmann is truly unconventional. Born in Germany, Julia uses her materials in a way that transcends their original purpose, creating true art. I made a list of furniture I would buy if I had an unlimited budget, and the Cow Bench is one of them. People say these headless bovine seats look really nice, but wait until they find out they're draped in rawhide. Sitting on one, you feel artificial ribs. Julia studied graphic design at the Surrey Institute and then design products at the Royal College of Art in London. Her work is part of major public and private collections worldwide and has received awards, bursaries and support from the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, the British Council, Jerwood Contemporary Makers, D&AD, Stanley Picker Gallery, the Arts Foundation and the Wellcome Trust. ...

The Adorable Sculptures of Yen Yen Lo

These images are from a series of wall sculptures created by Yen Yen Lo . Here you can see her intricately textured ceramic pieces, looking downright adorable. Yen Yen Lo's eye for the unique and whimsical is delightful. Apparently they are not intended for kids under 16. Fifteen-year-olds cannot be trusted with fragile stuff. Get them a Funko Pop instead.