Wearables

Orb Bluetooth headset redefines the ear-ring

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Orb transforms from a ring with a simple twist to become a Bluetooth headset
The Orb in headset mode
The Deluxe edition Orb with FOLED display
Orb transforms from a ring with a simple twist to become a Bluetooth headset
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Although Bluetooth headsets have come a long way in the style stakes, you can still look and feel a bit like a dork getting about town with one permanently affixed to your ear. Also, since they are usually designed to mold to the shape of the ear, they can be a little awkward to stuff in a pocket when not in use. An innovative new Bluetooth headset called the Orb solves this problem by transforming from a wireless earpiece into a ring that can be worn on your finger.

The Orb transforms from a ring with a simple twist to become a Bluetooth headset capable of hands-free calling. Incorporating NXT technology the Orb provides high quality bone conduction audio without the discomfort of placing a device inside the ear. A Deluxe edition also features a Flexible Organic Light Emitting Device (FOLED) screen to display caller ID, calendar reminders, and voice-to-text information for communication without taking the ring off the finger.

Developed through a partnership between Hybra Advance Technology Inc. and AbsolutelyNew Inc. the Orb will cater for the petite and stubby fingered alike through the availability of different ring sizes. Those who like their Bluetooth headsets with extra bling will be able to opt for a limited edition designer model featuring decorative gemstones. All units will offer a class 2 Bluetooth range of 30 feet.

The base model Orb is scheduled to launch in January 2010 carrying a suggested retail price of USD$129, while the Deluxe edition is due in April 2010 with a price of USD$175. The Limited edition designer models are also due in April 2010 with their price based on the value of the gemstones incorporated into the device.

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11 comments
Stefan Cooper-Fox
Oh how I love the future... or should I say NOW!
Jonathan Woo
nice toy for my wife next spring.
Facebook User
I can\'t wait to get one!!!
mpona
It shoul be on the market...WHER I CAN BUY IT ....?
Tony Medlin
Ohura wants one!
Dave B13
Borg Me! I can\'t decide if I should just get the headset, or buy a phone so it will be functional.
Marius Gruita
Looks like someone is having fun of us. I\'ve read first time about it in 2009. Now it is still nowhere for sale. Sounds bad!
Mark Lanett
Very tiny. Thus very tiny battery. This is probably the holdup.
Justin Murray
Cool idea, but from a design standpoint I wouldn't really label this as "sleek" or "slim". Although this may be an option for the workplace - such as hospitals or factories, it could use a re-design to become viable for the consumer market.
Pierre Marchildon
where do i get one of these? How much does it cost?