With mobile media consumption growing fast, companies are looking for novel ways to enhance entertainment experiences. The latest in augmented reality blurs the line between real life and audio/video hardware. Optinvent's Android-powered Ora-X headphones are designed with an adjustable virtual display that allows users to listen to music, watch videos, or play games on the go.
At first blush, the Ora-X looks like what you'd get from blending Google Glass with headphones from Polk or Klipsch (maybe). These over-ear headphones are designed to be high-end, complete with 50 mm dynamic drivers, rechargeable battery, active noise canceling, 3.5 mm audio input, Bluetooth 4.0 LE, and Wi-Fi connectivity. High-density memory foam is used for improved comfort and noise isolation, and a "pass through mode" activates the integrated microphone so users can hear environmental noise.
Unlike most wireless headphones or companion gadgets that require connecting to separate devices, Ora-X can operate all on its own. Although the appearance closely resembles over-ear headphones than a tablet, at its core, Ora-X is designed to function more like the latter. The Android 4.4.2 operating system and a host of sensors are supported by a dual-core processor, 2 GB of RAM, and 8 GB of flash memory. The Ora-X also features a built-in camera that is capable of taking photos up to 5 MP and recording video up to 1080p.
Since the Ora-X is an Android device, users can expect out-of-box compatibility with apps and games downloaded from the Google Play store. Not all content may be the most ideal and/or compatible to use with the virtual display, but the company has plans to create apps specifically for the device. A capacitive trackpad and dedicated keys offer tactile navigation and control over apps and the interface. The integrated microphone is also designed to be compatible with voice commands.
With the pivoting arm set to eye level, users can experience a full-color visual overlay that does not obstruct normal vision. The high definition display is designed with a field of view similar to looking at a 70-inch screen from 15 ft away. The Ora-X lets you play music or videos whether they're stored on the device, streamed from a connected smartphone/tablet, or over the internet through Wi-Fi. The internal battery is good for up to 8 hours before requiring recharging.
The Optinvent Ora-X headphones are currently being showcased at CES 2016, having recently succeeded a fully-funded campaign on Indiegogo. The Ora-X headphones plan to retail for US$600.
Check out the Indiegogo video below to see a highlight of features.
Source: Optinvent
