Put the wireless earbuds in a attached bracelet instead of a rough case: You had to think about it! This is what Chinese start-up Aipower has been offering since June 20. Or rather, that’s what it offers in crowdfunding through a Kickstarter campaign. As always, Remember that by financing a project, you are betting on the launch of the product.. Some entrepreneurs become unemployed, stop developing due to lack of funding or insurmountable technical difficulties. In this case, the return of the committed funds should not be expected. However, we rely on Aipower to send us two advanced prototypes of the product so we can get a clearer idea of what the product should be.
Wearbuds: A connected wristband that hides the earbuds
If you’re a fan of hidden-link bracelets, you’re on your way. It’s hard for wasps to fit two earphones—as compact as they are—in a given bracelet. And while it’s imposing, the Wearbuds designers have deliberately chosen a look. seventies based on round shapes and chromed plastic: nostalgic success guaranteed!
Wearbuds do not have a mechanical button, control is done using the overlay touchpad. Functions offered (heart rate, distance, sleep recording, etc.) and supported notifications (calls, messages, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for now) are pretty standard. An accompanying application allows the configuration of the machine and the management of the collected data.
The very compact earphones are IPX6 certified. They are located on the side faces of the assembled collar and take care to remove them gently after being removed by a spring, with light pressure. They are controlled using the tactile surface covering them. It is designed to work in duo (listening to music) or standalone (mono headphones) depending on the needs of the moment. their offer full read control (reading list browsing, adjusting the volume) as well as calling the smartphone assistant and even receiving/rejecting phone calls. Note that it is not possible to control the headphones from the smartband.
Bluetooth 5.0 enables the connection with the smartphone. From what we can tell from the prototypes we have, the sound is surprisingly good. and passive isolation provided by highly effective silicone tips. The connection seems solid and we didn’t experience any listening interruptions. Finally, note that they are equipped with Qualcomm’s aptX codec.
Aipower announced up to 7 days of autonomy for the connected bracelet and up to 5 hours and 30 continuous listening time for the headphones. The set charges in less than 90 minutes using a magnetic USB cable.
The startup plans to offer 500 copies at $49 (Super Early Bird), followed by 1,000 copies at $69 (Early Bird). Then the price will increase to $99 (Kickstarter Special).
Kickstarter campaign here and Aipower website (in English) there.
