Nuheara IQbuds. Source: Peter Brown/Electronics360
Intelligent earbuds that allow a user to selectively tune in or out the outside world caught our intrepid writer Pete Brown’s attention at CES 2018. Developed by the aptly-named Nuheara, a CES Innovation Awards honoree in 2017, the IQbuds boast wireless high-fidelity audio, dynamic noise control and speech amplification. Perhaps the most significant feature, however, is what the company refers to as “blended audio worlds” — shorthand for a user’s ability to control their desired mix of personal music and external ambient sound. Or, as Nuheara puts it: “Isolation when you need it, socialization when you want it.”
Nuheara also refers to their IQbuds as a “smarter alternative” to AirPods, the wireless earbuds from Apple. Features that set the Nuheara product apart include the ability to adjust individual ear amplification; tap-touch customization; and location presets for a variety of environments such as restaurants, offices, airplanes and gyms. The IQbuds feature battery life of 16 hours of on-the-go Bluetooth streaming, and double that for on-the-go hearing processing; are sweat- and water-resistant; weigh 8 grams (0.28 ounces) each; and are compatible with both iOS and Android systems.
Manufacturer price is $299.00. For full details, visit the Nuheara website.
