Sony today announced the launch of a crowdfunding campaign for its new Off-Ear Headphones, a novel headphone style that positions the speaker near, but without touching, the ear canal, leaving the ear safely uncovered while still delivering a rich sound experience. Sony’s Off-Ear Headphones are designed specifically to deliver an incredibly comfortable headphone experience to runners. The crowdfunding campaign runs throughout the month of November 2021 on Indiegogo. If funding goals are met, the headphones will be available in the U.S. and Japan from August 2022.
The large-diameter 16mm sound driver, designed by Sony’s skilled engineers, provide a natural, immersive audio experience. The lightweight (34g/1.2 oz.) Off-Ear Headphones deliver comfort and stability while running, and the IPX4 water resistance rating means the user need not be concerned with damage from sweat or rain. Users can make convenient hands-free calls using Bluetooth and can expect a long battery life up to 10 hours[. Due to the headphones’ unique off-ear style, runners can easily hear their surroundings for safety purposes yet not the body-conducted sound of their own footsteps.
The lightweight, flexible back headband avoids misalignment or wearability issues common with some headphone types. In addition to generating interest in the product, designers hope to receive valuable feedback and input on the product’s design during the campaign. The cost Sony’s Off-Ear Headphones is: -$77 for the first 300 customers; $103 for the next 300 customers; $129 for those purchasing units after the initial 600 units are sold. The product bundle contains Off-Ear headphones, a USB-C charging cable and a carrying pouch.
