<![CDATA[Gizmodo: headset]]> http://tags.gizmodo.com/assets/base/img/thumbs140x140/gizmodo.com.png <![CDATA[Gizmodo: headset]]> http://gizmodo.com/tag/headset http://gizmodo.com/tag/headset <![CDATA[Remind Others of Your Wealth With The Vertu V Collection]]> So you've spent a few grand on a Vertu phone, but need something else to illustrate just how much of a high roller you are. Would a matching Vertu pen, Bluetooth headset and memory card reader do the job?

Sold together under the 'V Collection' title, the pricing hasn't been confirmed yet but we don't need to tell you it'll be more than the average phone costs.

Looking much like the ballpoint pen included in the collection, the Bluetooth 2.1 headset has six hours of talktime, and features a fold-out earpiece with metal ear loop for attaching to your hearing-hole. The memory card reader, which also looks like a pen, only reads microSD cards so won't be of much help to digital camera users unless they use a microSD card adapter too. [Vertu V Collection via SlashGear]

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<![CDATA[Apparently, Apple Wants All iPod Shuffle Users to Look Like Idiots]]> Oh Apple patents, you harbingers of coolness. Sometimes, however, you announce potential pain and doom. This iPod-cum-wireless headset is one of them. There's no way I can look at these images and think that Jon Ive's powers can save it:

I don't even know why this iPod thingie—which includes microphone, wireless, headphone, memory, display, and media player—is for. Would this be paired to an iPhone? It doesn't make sense, since the iPhone is already a media player. Why would I want to have a second one on the headset itself? Maybe to connect to another non-media-playing cellphone? Do those exist anymore? Does Steve knows about this, per chance?

Steve. [Baltimore Sun via 9to5]

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<![CDATA[Shure Sound Isolating SE115m+ Headset For The iPhone Has 3 Buttons To Rule Them All]]> Shure has updated their SE115 with an a "m" and a "+" that delivers a built-in mic and 3-button remote for iPhone/iPod users.

The 3-button remote can be used to easily control music and video playback, adjust volume, record voice memos and answer or end calls. The original Shure SE115 headset had a great reputation, so this should be a welcome upgrade for iPhone users. Expect to see the Shure SE115m+ headset on store shelves by the end of the month for $120. [Pitch Engine]

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<![CDATA[This Is the Jabra Stone?]]> A delicious tipster just sent us this photo of the Jabra Stone, which was teased in a silhouette earlier today. Is this it? It could very well be.

Our tipster also said that the headset fits directly into the charger, and when docked, the two look like a stone. Hence, Jabra Stone. The ultimate test, of course, is how well the Stone fits onto your ear, since that's where it counts. [Thanks tipster!]

Update: Here's a second pic from another tipster. Thanks guys!

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<![CDATA[Jabra Stone Bluetooth Headset Teaser Is Frustrating]]> This is the teaser page for Jabra's Stone, an upcoming headset that's supposedly shaped like a stone. Too bad you can't see it for another 27 days.

Electric Pig says that the headset will have noise cancellation (as does many of the headsets out now), and it won't need a boom mic (again, same as a bunch of other Bluetooth units you can buy now). So what's special? Besides the "soft rubber padding", we have no idea until the 20th. [Jabra Stone via Electric Pig]

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<![CDATA[Kopin Golden-i Headset's Microdisplay Puts A 15-Inch Virtual Computer In Yo' Face]]> No doubt, this headset is going to make you look like a douchebag, but it is freaking killer. When you get past the rendering on a rendering, you notice it has a screen that will project a 15-inch virtual display.

Yes, Kopin has decided the best place to put its latest .44-inch SVGA resolution LCD microdisplay (or CyberDisplay as they call it) is in front of your face. No really, you will see the 15-inch virtual display right in front of you with it positioned on the headset's arm.

The headset, or more like wearable computer, runs Windows CE and has a speedy ARM Cortex-A8 processor. You control the interface with the microphone and speech recognition from Nuance that has advanced speech-to-text capabilities. Now the headset has Motorola branding on it, but there is no mention of a real partnership as far as we can see.

Beyond it having its own interface based on Windows CE, it could pair with your Bluetooth smartphone. Ideally it would display your phone's operating system in front of your face. Take that Redfly!

And if all that wasn't futuristic enough for you it will have a head tracking and body gesture sensor that will adjust the device to body movements. Its high end Lithium Ion batter promises eight hours of juice. I don't see why they couldn't just fit in wireless charging while they are at it.

Now this is clearly a render, but the company will be showing prototypes this week at the Embedded Systems Conference. Kopin plans to begin shipping a Gen 3 Golden-i Eval SDK in December and actually expects to ship the product in 2010. The future of wearable computing is upon us and I'm totally fine looking like a douchebag. [Kopin]

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<![CDATA[Sony Ericsson Changing the World with an Instant-On Headset]]> Remember how Sony Ericsson was going to make it so "the way you listen to music changes forever"? Well, apparently they're doing so with a fancy headset. Really, guys?

The rumor is that it'll be a headset that automatically starts the music when you put it on. Interesting, I guess, but not mindblowing. I'll reserve judgement until the official announcement on the 21st, but it seems like SE should cut down on the hyperbole a little bit. [Eldar Murtazin via DailyMobile]

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<![CDATA[Hands-On With Mogo Talk For iPhone]]> Newton Peripherals, who make the Mogo line of accessories that pack something tiny into some equally tiny space, is releasing its iPhone Bluetooth version soon. And yes, it's a Bluetooth headset that docks into your iPhone (case).

Crunchgear got their hands on it in June, but this version, closer to release, seems like it's been refined and cleaned up for a Christmas-time launch.

The docking mechanism works by first latching another iPhone back onto your 3G or 3GS. There's a hole in the back for the Bluetooth unit, as is the thought process for other Mogo units. To remove the headset, push down on the left side and it pops out. To charge, pop up the charging port on the bottom and plug in a microUSB charger.

This is one thing we'd like to see changed so that the headset can charge directly from the iPhone's power supply so that it's always juiced up. It would reduce battery life, but if you're always on your Bluetooth headset anyway, it'd be super useful. And, if they could build a battery pack into the unit, that would solve two problems at once.

As for the performance, it's actually surprisingly good. The wife said I sounded as good on this tiny sliver of a headset as I did on larger ones, and I could hear her just fine as well, even though she was at a gas station. One tricky part was to make sure the ear padding is oriented the correct direction. If you flip it around, the headset falls off easily.

Whether or not the Mogo Talk for iPhone is worth $130 is up to how much you talk on your phone. I, for one, love the fact that I can now always have a Bluetooth headset with me, but the problem of always keeping it charged (especially with the need for separate microUSB charging) still remains. As much as having to use a Bluetooth headset is a hassle, I don't want to get ticketed for talking on the phone while driving, so using the Mogo Talk would make the whole thing less of a pain. [Newton Peripherals]

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<![CDATA[Logitech Frags The G5 With Higher Precision Gaming Mouse G500]]> The G500 succeeds the popular G5 Laser Mouse with greater accuracy (up to 5700dpi, adjustable on the fly), and a broader thumb rest. Logitech also has a new budget noise-cancelling headset called the G330.

The Gaming Mouse G500 has a "battle worn finish" and dual-mode scroll wheel that either can click through weapon selection, or be made frictionless when scrolling Web pages. Like the G5, you can also add extra weight (up to 27 grams). The G500 will cost $70 when it ships in September.

For its part, the Gaming Headset G330 has a behind-the-head design, volume control on its cord, and provides basic noise canceling for $50. Though it can connect to your PC via 3.5mm mini-jack, using it over USB enables optimized EQ. [Logitech]

Logitech Gaming Mouse G500 Refreshes Popular Logitech G5 Laser Mouse with Latest Gaming-Grade Laser Engine, Logitech Gaming Headset G330 Delivers Comfort That Won't Quit

FREMONT, Calif. - Aug. 6, 2009 - When there's sweat on your brow, and it's way too late to turn back, it's time to choose wisely. To help you make the right choice when victory is on the line, Logitech (SIX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI) today unveiled extensions to its award-winning G-series line of gaming peripherals: the Logitech® Gaming Mouse G500 and the Logitech® Gaming Headset G330. The Gaming Mouse G500 refreshes the popular Logitech® G5 Laser Mouse with the latest gaming-grade laser engine and a battle-worn appearance, while the Gaming Headset G330 delivers comfort that won't quit – even after long hours of battle.

"As more and more people make gaming with family and friends the new night out, Logitech continues to push the envelope with the Logitech G-series." said Ruben Mookerjee, Logitech's director of product marketing for gaming. "If you're getting serious about gaming – or have already seen the light – then the best way to dive ever deeper into the game is by putting the G500 mouse in your good hand and the G330 headset on your head. Victory is up to you."

For gamers, especially the more than 11 million people playing World of Warcraft® or the millions on a tour of Call of Duty®, the Gaming Mouse G500 and the Gaming Headset G330 help ensure that every late-night gaming session is victorious.

Logitech Gaming Mouse G500
The successor to the classic Logitech® G5 Laser Mouse, the Logitech Gaming Mouse G500 delivers game-changing precision at any hand speed. With its gaming-grade laser engine you can rev up your intensity – reaching a maximum hand speed of 165 inches per second (ips) and a maximum acceleration force of 30 gs. An on-the-fly adjustable-dpi gives you the right level of precision – from pixel-precise targeting (200 dpi) to lightning-fast maneuvers (up to 5700 dpi) – for whatever game you're playing. (The dpi can be adjusted, after installing the Logitech® Gaming Software, in increments of 100 dpi). Plus, full-speed USB helps ensure that the G500 mouse is smooth and responsive.

But the G500 mouse offers much more than precision. A rugged finish offers a battle-worn accent to your gear. And an updated shape – with a broader thumb rest and a smoothed-out pinkie ledge – makes the new Logitech gaming mouse more comfortable when you're in the heat of competition.

When you're ready to battle, the onboard memory lets you save and take the settings for your favorite title with you – no software required. If you're sensitive to weight, the G500 mouse offers weight tuning, including up to 27 grams of extra weight for personalized feel and control. The additional weights fit into a removable chassis and, when not in use, can be stored in the accompanying case. A dual-mode scroll wheel – with hyper-fast scrolling for those times that you have to work – provides click-to-click scrolling that's perfect for weapon selection. And ten programmable buttons put valuable macros in your hand (software required).

Logitech Gaming Headset G330
Even when gaming casualties are heavy, your Logitech Gaming Headset G330 isn't. The lightweight G330 headset combats fatigue with its adjustable, behind-the-head design – the first of its kind for gaming headsets – that slides for a personalized fit. To further relieve common pressure points on your head, the G330 headset features a soft silicone-lined headband and pivoting ear pads. And with durable steel spring at its core, the flexible headband is designed to withstand the wear and tear of furious battle.

A noise-canceling microphone reduces annoying background noise and rotates out of the way when you're not using it. The in-line audio controls let you adjust the volume or mute the microphone without pausing the action. An included USB adapter lets you choose to connect digitally to any USB port for enhanced audio or directly to your PC sound card via 3.5 mm jacks.

Pricing and Availability
The Logitech Gaming Mouse G500 is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe in September for a suggested retail price of $69.99 (U.S.). The Logitech Gaming Headset G330 is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe in August for a suggested retail price of $49.99 (U.S.).

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<![CDATA[The Like, Official Skype Headset]]> Everybody's getting into hardware lately, so it's not shocking Skype has its own headset. The idea is that it's cheap (under $25) and USB powered, so your Skype calls don't sounded like blended kitties. [Skype via TechCrunch]

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<![CDATA[Klipsch S4i In-Ear Headset Features Apple's Mic and Remote System]]> If you are looking for an alternative to Apple in-ear headphones, Klipsch is happy to oblige with their new S4i model. Like Apple's version, it includes an integrated microphone and three button remote.

The key to the S4i's dynamic music performance is a moving coil micro-speaker with controlled damping, a feature that allows it to deliver smooth, full-bodied sound similar to a more expensive design. A dual neodymium magnet motor structure, in each of the 8.5 mm drivers, establishes the S4i's damping characteristics. It's a quality that allows kick drums to "attack" and Intermodulation distortion, or IMD, to be significantly reduced.

If you are a real audiophile that trusts Klipsch products, these may be worth picking up. As you might expect, loyalty will cost you—the S4i will run you $100 this August while Apple's headset can be had right now for $80.

New Breakthrough Product: Klipsch® Image S4i In-Ear Headset
One of the first third party headphones with integrated microphone and remote

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 21, 2009) - Klipsch plans to re-define the music listening experience with its new Image S4i, an in-ear headset that combines the company's acclaimed sound performance and amazing comfort value with a unique in-line microphone and remote.

"Designed for iPhone and iPod users, the Image S4i is a breakthrough product that simplifies on-the-go lifestyles-you can take calls while commuting or exercising, as well as control your music library," said Don Inmon, Klipsch director of marketing and product development for personal audio.

The Image S4i works seamlessly with the iPhone 3GS, third generation iPod shuffle, second generation iPod touch, fourth generation iPod nano and the iPod classic 120GB. The headset features Apple's advanced three-button microphone and remote system that easily handles the voice and/or music control of these Apple products.

Furthermore, the S4i remote is among the first to be fully compatible with the Apple VoiceOver feature on the third generation iPod shuffle, which allows you to hear the name of the playlist, song or artist with just the press of a button.

According to Paul Jacobs, president and COO of Klipsch Group, Inc., when you combine Apple's incredible products with our 63 years of experience in high-performance audio, you can expect one of the coolest, most advanced headset designs out there. "It's definitely a platform that will dynamically change the music experience for our customers."

Unlike most headsets, the S4i positions its in-line microphone and remote at the yoke-where the two cables meet at chest level-to create a more natural feel when answering calls and controlling music. Because the microphone is a highly intelligible 360-degree design, you don't have to talk down into it; you can speak as if you're having a face-to-face conversation. Additionally, the microphone features echo cancellation, which keeps it from picking up the external noise around you.

Because durability is a major concern when it comes to headphone and headset cables, Klipsch has gone to great lengths to ensure the S4i cables are a well-balanced combination of being robust as well as discreet. The company has added appropriate strain relief at every cable connection point to help prevent wire damage, while also putting them through extensive "real world" testing.

The Image S4i utilizes the company's exclusive oval ear tips that provide comfortable long-term wear. Unlike circular-shaped designs that put stress on the pressure points inside the ear, Klipsch's oval ear tips naturally fit the contours of the ear canals. These ear tips also offer superior passive noise-cancellation, blocking out almost all ambient noise and providing excellent bass.

"Once you have the right fit and seal, these headsets are virtually impossible to feel," said Mark Blanchard, senior acoustic design engineer for Klipsch and inventor of the company's oval ear tips. "When we began studying three-dimensional ear impressions, it was discovered that nearly everyone has an oval-shaped ear canal. We couldn't believe that no one else had yet considered the anatomical shape of the ear canal when designing in-ear headphones."

Blanchard also mentioned that when you wear Klipsch headphones or headsets, you don't need to turn up the volume as loud because a good seal dramatically reduces background noise-a feature that could definitely help preserve your hearing.

The key to the S4i's dynamic music performance is a moving coil micro-speaker with controlled damping, a feature that allows it to deliver smooth, full-bodied sound similar to a more expensive design. A dual neodymium magnet motor structure, in each of the 8.5 mm drivers, establishes the S4i's damping characteristics. It's a quality that allows kick drums to "attack" and Intermodulation distortion, or IMD, to be significantly reduced.

Available in a piano black finish with chrome accents, the Image S4i comes with a two-year warranty and includes a premium carrying pouch; small, medium and large ear tips; small/medium dual flange ear tips; an ear tip cleaning tool; and a clothing clip. Priced at $99.99 (U.S. MSRP), the S4i will be available for purchase at klipsch.com, Apple, InMotion and Amazon in August.

[Klipsch]

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<![CDATA[Jawbone Prime Improves on Everything]]> Aliph's just gone and improved the second-generation Jawbone Bluetooth headset in both the sound quality and the looks department.

There are four fashion colors—red, yellow, orange and purple—for people who would rather accessorize than try to hide the fact that they're using a Bluetooth headset. (Their names, "Frankly Scarlet", "Yello!", "Drop Me a Lime" and "LILAC You Mean It" are at the very least, clever.) Of course, there's also the obligatory black, brown and platinum colors for people who take themselves seriously.

On the other hand, there are the voice quality improvements. The NoiseAssassin's Voice Activity Sensor is still there, providing great noise elimination as long as it's touching your face. But in the case that the little white nub slides off your cheek, their new Acoustic Voice Activity Detector supposedly provides as good a noise cancellation algorithm as other headsets on the market. Overall, the Jawbone Prime gives better noise suppression than the Jawbone 2 by about 3x (give or take, depending on the situation) as well as wind noise suppression.

Rounding out the features, there is Bluetooth 1.1, 1.2, 2.0 and 2.1 + EDR support, 10 meter range, 4.5 hours talk time, 8 days standby time, two simultaneous device connections and a price of $130. We'll let you know how it performs once we test it. [Jawbone]

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<![CDATA[Sleek Bracelet Cellphone Has Integrated Headset for Cool Uhura Wannabes]]> Headsets. In theory, they were destined to make us look like people from the future. In practice, they make us look like dorks. Except maybe this one, which is integrated in this bracelet cellphone.

The design of the On Time Head Set System—a touch-enabled, bracelet cellphone that vibrates and lets you pick up the phone by placing its integrated headset on your ear—is simple and pretty, although I'm not sure about how realistic or practical it could be with current technology. Maybe in the future, when batteries get better. [Yanko Design]

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<![CDATA[Bluetooth Headsets Will Never Be Attractive or Cool]]> This water droplet-shaped concept from Ilshat Garipov makes a good run at it, but no matter how small or slick or arty they are, Bluetooth headsets are just never going to look good.

Is it the association they have with bankers, lawyers, and other douche-types? Is it the inherent awkwardness of watching somebody talk into a machine you can't see? I think we can all agree that it's not the specific design of an individual Bluetooth headset that makes it irritating. Sorry, Ilshat, your design is pretty sharp and all that but I just can't get excited over a device with a function I can't help but find annoying. [Yanko Design]

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<![CDATA[Headset Hotties, the Blog]]> The Headset Hotties blog documents instances of headset hotties—stock photos of (mostly) women used in low-budget template-based websites.

I've seen quite a few "headset hotties" in stock photos from when I created websites, and these aren't nearly the best ones on the internet. Maybe you guys can help them out?

[Headset Hotties via Boing Boing Gadgets]

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<![CDATA[Callpod's Multi-Plex Connects Any Bluetooth Dragon Headset to Any Other Headset]]> The Callpod Dragon Bluetooth headset already has the ability to create a walkie-talkie hands-free connection with any other Callpod headset, but now it can connect with any headset.

All you have to do is download the 2PLEX software upgrade for your Dragon, install it, and you can hook up with any other Bluetooth headset to have a two-way conversation, or sync up so both of you can have a Skype call (via PC) or regular phone call (on a cellphone) with someone else. The software is $40, but if you have another Bluetooth headset already and don't want to buy another Callpod Dragon ($100) it's a decent alternative for BT walkie-talkie. [Dragon]

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<![CDATA[V-Moda Vibe II Headset Lightning Review (A Sequel That Beats the Original)]]> The Gadget: V-Moda Vibe II, the first real successor to the Vibe and Vibe Duo headphones, with a totally new eco-friendly design, sport earhooks and most importantly, better sound than the originals.

Price: $128, "a nod to the BPM of most dance tracks" (no, really).

Verdict: Okay, so the new METAL + gem aesthetic decidedly appeals more to ladies, goth kiddies or Eurotrash. But! Everything else is better.

The Vibe IIs mostly preserve V-Moda's super-bassy signature, but are less intensely boomy, which is a good thing, since now they've definitely got more clarity in the mids and highs than the old set, and an overall cleaner, more balanced sound. (Though they're still plenty bassy.) The mic was clearer too, or at least that's what my mom told me.

The included accessories package is bumped up as well. You've got four bud sizes—up from three—to choose from, so people with Obama-sized ears down to munchkins should be able to find one that fits. And there's a pair of clip-on sport earhooks that add stability for running and working out—jogging and bouncing around the house, they made the fit surprisingly more secure. The only real issue with the clips is that it seems like they're begging to be lost.

I still hate the tangle-prone fabric cord, but at least they've got the recently introduced less suicidal headphone jack, so they hopefully won't run into the same plague the original run did.

Overall, these are a solid update to the original Vibes and Vibe Duos, that are better in every way (except looks). If you like them, you'll be a fan of the Vibe II. That said, if you've already got a pair, it's probably not worth chunking them to pick these up. But when those die, or if you're looking for a slightly bassier iPhone headset, check these out. [V-Moda]

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<![CDATA[SouthWing Bluetooth Headset Brings You News, Excuses to Leave]]> SouthWing and AT&T have paired up to offer a Bluetooth headset specifically catering to news junkies and evasive people. If your SouthWing SH241 earpiece is connected to an AT&T phone, it'll pipe the latest finance, weather, sports and other info straight into your head. Sure, an FM radio feature would probably do the same thing—but does FM radio also come with an “Instant Alibi” feature that lets you call yourself, so that when your blind date starts weeping softly about his second failed marriage, you can invent an emergency situation to get yourself the hell out of there? Yeah, didn't think so. It's available for $40 from any AT&T store. [Into Mobile]

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<![CDATA[Hands-Free GPS Device for the Blind Could Make You a Superhero]]> The Navigation aid for the Blind headset is a GPS device, which not only works through speech recognition, but also uses obstacle detection technology that alerts the blind of any sleeping bums or other obstructions he could trip over as he is being guided to his destination.

In 2003, we reported on a GPS navigation device that led the visually impaired to their impending doom due to an "inaccuracy" of the system.

Although this new GPS device is not as cuddly as a guide dog, it is made up of one earpiece and microphone, which would allow the blind a certain anonymity, kind of like Daredevil, in that he would no longer need a cane or furry pet, which would leave both of his hands free ... to fight crime, perhaps? [create the future contest via gizmag]

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<![CDATA[Nikon Debuts Video Headset With Wi-Fi, 8GB of Storage, and a Browser]]> A seriously odd announcement from camera maker Nikon, the Media Port UP300 and UP300x video headset approaches wearable PC territory. The device, which honestly looks like a pair of headphones with a small display tacked on, actually has a pretty impressive spec sheet: up to 8GB of flash memory for videos, audio and file storage, Wi-Fi connectivity, a full-featured internet browser and on the 300x model, even motion control. Browsing would have to be frustrating on a setup like this, but the Wi-Fi connection can also be used to download audio and video content directly to the device.

The UP300 sits in an interesting place, exceeding the hardware capability of simple video goggles from Zeiss and Myvu but falling short of the full-fledged PC glasses that we were taught to expect by that stupid Beyond 2000 show. There also may be some applications outside of the consumer space, like as audio/video tour guide replacements. Sorry, HUD-loving nerds — Japan only for now. Full presser below. [Akihabara]

The Media Port UP300x and UP300

October 7, 2008

Nikon Corporation (Michio Kariya, President) is pleased to announce the successful development of the Media Port UP ("UP" read as individual letters), a multimedia playback headset device that also supports Internet connection. This innovative product, which incorporates display, headphones, mobile A/V player, Wi-Fi capability, high-capacity memory, and power source in a single compact unit is the first of its type. The UP allows users to easily enjoy high-quality images, videos, and music anywhere. Two UP models will be available—the high-performance UP300x and the basic UP300. The Media Port UP will be available only in Japan through the Nikon Imaging Japan Inc. (Takao Nishioka, President) online UP Store (http://www.upstore.jp/).

* Multimedia playback device in headset form, according to Nikon survey as of October 7, 2008.

Major Functions

* The single, compact unit allows for simple enjoyment of videos and music anyplace and anytime, while leaving the hands free to do other things.
* Enjoy image and video viewing with a sensation equivalent to that of viewing of a 50-inch large screen from a distance of three meters.
* An extremely compact and lightweight display that offers excellent image quality achieved with optics made possible through development and adoption of a new adhesion double-layer diffractive optical element (DOE) lens.
* The high-performance UP300x is equipped with a built-in motion sensor that allows for hands free operation, including volume adjustment, by moving the head up or down, left or right.
* The UP300x is equipped with an 8 GB internal memory while the UP300 offers 4 GB of internal memory.
* Designed with a high eyepoint and diopter adjustment so that even those who wear glasses will find the display easy to view.
* In addition to Web browsing via Internet connection using the built-in Wi-Fi function, media contents can also be downloaded.
* A service for UP users that allows for the distribution of video contents will be initiated. Users will be able to easily select desired contents and download media files to their UP for viewing and listening enjoyment.
* As Windows Media Player (WMP) files are also supported, compatible media files saved to a computer can also be transferred to a UP for viewing and listening enjoyment.

Development background

Nikon has a long history of development of a variety of products that allow for the simple enjoyment of high-quality imaging, beginning of course, with digital cameras. In recent years, the digital wave has led to great changes in the ways in which images, videos and music are enjoyed. Nikon recognizes the fact that modern people are now able to increase the value of time with the ability to access and enjoy information available with today's imaging and audio capabilities using a few minutes of spare time. Sitting comfortably on the head, this product allows immediate access to a variety of information as a device that can accompany users in their everyday lives. The UP models developed by Nikon are the world's first products of this type to incorporate all of the features available with various mobile devices, such as image and audio playback, communications, built-in memory, and simple power source, in a single unit. What's more, these features have been incorporated into a product with the same size and weight as conventional sound-isolating headphones.
High-definition image and video playback was achieved with the development and adoption of Nikon's exclusive new optics technology for the UP display. In addition, this product was also designed with high-quality speakers and superior operation and feel. This is a new genre of product that combines the optics, human interface, and digital imaging technologies Nikon has spent decades accumulating with new audio and Internet technologies.

Origin of the UP name

Nikon has named this innovative product "UP". This name was taken from a number of word combinations that may be used to described the broad functionality and uses of this product, including "universal port", "ubiquitous player", "ultimate player", "U (your) partner", "U (your) pleasure", and "U (your) power". As the first product in a brand new genre, we chose the name "UP" for both its simplicity and its presence.

Primary Features

1. All-in-one, hands free enjoyment
An all-in-one design that offers display, headphones, mobile A/V player, Wi-Fi capability, and Internet connection in a single unit. An ergonomic design arch form that reflects basic Nikon characteristics such as simplicity and ease-of-use, while offering innovation and a high-quality feel.
2. Clear and easy-to-see high-quality display
The display incorporates a liquid crystal display, backlight, and newly developed optics that enable display zoom. This new technology is the result of the technologies and know how cultivated by Nikon with our development of SLR camera viewfinders and eyeglasses. Though extremely compact and lightweight, the UP allows users to enjoy clear and beautiful images, without distortion.
3. Adhesion double-layer DOE lens enables compact, lightweight, high-quality display
The optics adopted for UP display incorporate Nikon's exclusive adhesion double-layer DOE lens. While most common lenses use refraction to change the direction in which light moves, diffractive optical elements (DOE) use light diffraction. A diffraction grating, shaped like the teeth of a saw with separation of tens to hundreds of micrometers, suppresses chromatic aberration to reproduce crisp and clear VGA images. What's more, this allows for an optical system with a weight of approximately 1/7 that of conventional lens optics (comparison of Nikon designs).
4. Internet connection via built-in Wi-Fi capability
Internet connection* via a wireless LAN network is made possible with built-in Wi-Fi capability. Our original online service, UP Link, enables Web browsing and download of media contents for viewing and listening enjoyment.

*Registration with a supported Internet service provider required. All functions may not be supported with some network connections.

5. Integrated design allows for superior sound quality
The integration of amplifier and speakers in a single unit enables optimization of sound quality. As no external cable connection is required, noise is minimized for pure sound quality. The built-in driver unit is a highly magnetic 40 mm neodymium unit, which offers superior sound with realistic sensation. In addition, the large earpads are made of soft, viscoelastic urethane for a comfortable and secure fit.
6. Movie and music player with multi-codec support
WMV9 and MPEG-1, MPEG-2 movies, and MP3, AAC, and WMA9 audio files are supported.
7. High-capacity memory built in
The UP300x is equipped with an 8 GB internal memory and the UP300 offers 4 GB of internal memory. The UP300x can hold MPEG-2 data of up to 160 minutes in length or WMV9 data of up to 500 minutes in length (MPEG-2 files recorded at 6.5Mb/s, WMV files recorded at 2Mb/s).
8. Retracting mechanism for adjustment of display position to suit use
Depending upon whether you are viewing images or videos, or simply listening to music, the adjustable display arm can be lowered to eye level or kept in its storage position. Further, the display arm can be lowered below eye level when primarily listening to music with occasional viewing of images or videos.
9. Mechanisms for individual fit
The display incorporates two flexible joints and an extendable arm that allow for positioning adjustment suited to individual head shape and size, as well as eye level. This provides for comfortable viewing position and a secure fit for all users. What's more, the arm joint can be reversed for viewing images and videos with either the left or right eye.
10. "Fit Navigator" for usage guidance
This function assists users with correct viewing and listening positioning as well as operation. When the UP is turned on, users need simply to follow the instructions displayed to achieve optimum viewing and listening positioning and learn about button operations.
11. Automatic image brightness adjustment function
When viewing images or videos with just one eye with the UP, visibility with that eye is affected by external brightness visible with the opposite eye. Therefore, the UP has been equipped with a function that automatically adjusts image or video brightness according to ambient brightness.
12. Motion sensor for hands-free operation (UP300x only)
Hands free operation makes the UP a truly all-in-one device. The UP300x is equipped with a motion sensor that supports hands free operational control. With simple head movements up, down, left, or right, a variety of operations, including volume adjustment, can be controlled without using the hands.
13. Operational control concentrated with a multi selector
All operations and basic settings can be applied with one hand using the multi selector, a set of integrated controls on the outside of one speaker. The multi selector is comprised of a center dial surrounded by four buttons. When a button is pressed, function color in the display changes for simple control of the intended operation. The user interface is simple enough for anyone to master.
14. High eyepoint and diopter adjustment for comfortable viewing even while wearing glasses
The UP is designed with a high eyepoint for comfortable viewing while wearing glasses. It is also equipped with a diopter adjustment function. This allows for adjustment of optical power to suit individual vision.
In addition, when viewing images or videos with just one eye with the UP, the diopter adjustment function can be used to make the focusing distance of the eye viewing images or videos the same as the other eye, allowing for comfortable simultaneous viewing of the UP display and the surrounding environment.
15. A/V input (UP300x only)
The UP300x can be connected to portable A/V devices with an output terminal, including cellular telephones and audio players. This provides a new way to enjoy existing image, video, and music libraries. (The optional A/V cable is required for connection. Connection may not be possible depending upon the existence of an A/V output terminal, connector shape, and output specifications of the A/V device.)
16. Communication indicator
When operations are modified or volume is adjusted, built-in signs light on the display arm and on the front of the display. These signs can also be disabled.
17. Wiper switch warnings
When viewing images or videos with one eye with the UP and rapidly moving objects are visible with the other eye, attention may concentrate on the surrounding environment. The wiper function shows a white line in the display, which moves to help bring attention back to the display.
18. Hours of listening and viewing enjoyment with two AA batteries
The UP can be powered by two AA alkaline batteries. The UP comes with two Sanyo AA "eneloop" Ni-MH rechargeable batteries and dedicated quick charger. When the supplied batteries are used, uninterrupted video playback of up to 120 minutes1 or music playback of up to 270 minutes2 is possible.

1
With display brightness manually set to 3 and playback of WMV movie file at 2 Mb/s. Except contents protected by Windows Media DRM 10.
2
With backlight turned off and playback of WMA 9.2 audio file at 320 Kb/s. Except contents protected by Windows Media DRM 10.

Additional features

* The optional infrared remote control is convenient for times when reaching for the multi selector may be difficult.
* The size of the image/video displayed can be reduced (50% horizontally and vertically). This prevents missing any details when images or videos are viewed at the periphery of visual field when the display arm is positioned below eye level.

Media Port UP specifications

Type: Multimedia playback headset
Model: UP300, UP300x
Display: 0.44-in. transmissive LCOS with 640 x 480 x 3 dots and 16,770,000 colors
Lens: Adhesion double-layer DOE lens with a diagonal of approximately 24°
Speaker unit: Sealed dynamic type that supports playback frequencies of 3–25,000 Hz
Input terminal: Multi connector
Power source: Two AA alkaline batteries
Three AA Lithium batteries
Two AA rechargeable nickel hydride batteries
Storage medium: Built-in flash memory: 4 GB (UP300)/8 GB (UP300x)1
File formats:
Movie: MPEG-1, MPEG-2, WMV9 (DRM 10 compatible)
Audio: MP32, WMA9 (DRM 10 compatible), AAC2
Still image: JPEG
Other: SWF (Flash Player 7 compatible)
Interface Hi-Speed USB
Wireless LAN 802.11b/g protocols within a range of 20 m (line of sight)3
Video input(UP300x) Images: NTSC, 1 Vp-p/75Ω Audio: 500 mVrms/47 KΩ
Web browser HTML: HTML 4.01, frames supported, JavaScript
Flash: Version 7
Uninterrupted playback Movie: Approximately 120 minutes4
Audio: approx. 270 minutes5
Operating environment Ambient temperature: 0~40°C
Humidity: 85% or less (no condensation)
Weight 385 g (including supplied batteries)
Supplied accessories UC-UP1 USB cable, 2 Sanyo "eneloop" rechargeable batteries(HR-3UTG), NC-MDR02 battery charger, AL-UP1 angle limiter, Soft Pouch SC-UP1

1 50 MB used by the system.

2 Files protected by copyright cannot be played.

3 Effective range may be reduced by obstacles and inclement weather.

4 With display brightness manually set to 3 and playback of WMV movie file at 2 Mb/s.
Except contents protected by Windows Media DRM 10.

5 With backlight turned off and playback of WMA 9.2 audio file at 320 Kb/s.
Except contents protected by Windows Media DRM 10.

• Except where indicated, all specifications provided apply to use at an ambient temperature of 25°C with the supplied batteries fully charged.

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