(Getty)
Headphones aren’t exactly an exciting product, but the new earbuds from 50 Cent and Intel are definitely going to get your heart beating a little faster. These next-gen headphones are called the SMS Audio BioSport In-Ear Headphones, and they are packed with insanely cool features. Here’s what you need to know.
1. The SMS Audio BioSport In-Ear Headphones Are Powered by Intel
Wearable für Sportler. @smsaudio BioSport In-Ear Headphones powered by #Intel: http://t.co/8BBdI0IU5f @50cent pic.twitter.com/4KpsQDyEHq
— Intel in Deutschland (@Intel_DE) August 15, 2014
According to this press release, 50 Cent’s company SMS Audio has announced a new, top-of-the-line headphones. Dubbed the SMS Audio BioSport In-Ear Headphones, these new earbuds integrate biometric sensors in a custom heart rate monitor. Here are some of the features of this Intel-powered headphones:
“— One-Device Workout Accessory for Ultimate Comfort: A jointly developed
heart rate monitor in-ear headphone will put an end to the less
convenient, less comfortable chest strap-style monitor while delivering
reliable and consistent heart rate monitoring to enable peak performance
and progress tracking…— Sweat and Water Resistant: No need to worry about working out too hard or
in the rain — the SMS Audio BioSport In-Ear Headphones are IPX4 rated
for protection against sweat and resistance to water.— Sync with RunKeeper: To help track your heart rate, pace, distance,
elevation and calorie burn, the SMS Audio BioSport In-Ear Headphones will
be compatible with popular mainstream fitness app RunKeeper, with
additional application support planned in the future. RunKeeper support
will enable users to plan fitness routines and track progress — pushing
enthusiasts to reach peak performance.”
2. The BioSport Headphones Don’t Require Batteries
Check out the video above to see a pair of Intel prototype headphones from CES 2014 that were the likely precursors of the BioSport earbuds.
The BioSport headphones are really impressive because they don’t require you to use batteries. Unlike a lot of other high-end, feature-rich headphones, the new BioSports are cheaper to operate over the long term because they don’t need extra battery power.
3. These Headphones Can Measure Your Heart Rate
(Getty)
What makes these headphones really appealing for runners and athletes is the fact that they track your heart rate. Mashable notes that SMS Audio already has quite a bit of clout with with pro athletes. The current SMS Audio Sport Collection features NBA star Carmelo Anthony as its spokesman.
4. The Headphones Lack In-Ear Voice Guide
Get a closer look at the LG headphones that act as a direct competitor to the BioSport earbuds in the video above.
Business Insider notes that the BioSport headphones do have one drawback when compared to LG Electronics FR74 HRM earphones. The LG headphones have a bit of an edge, as they offer a Voice Guide feature. However, BI’s report notes that “Intel says it hopes to integrate additional features in the future.”
5. Other 50 Cent Headphones Have Gotten Rave Reviews
(Getty)
SMS Audio’s headphones are well-respected within the industry. Digital Trends gave the SMS audio Street DJ headphones four out of five stars.
Pricing info hasn’t been released yet, but we can expect to see the SMS Audio BioSport In-Ear Headphones hit the market later this year. Mashable notes the expected price will be under $150.
