The 'Sgnl' phone earpiece works by utilizing bone conduction technology to transmit audio waves rather than relying on traditional speakers to do so. The 'Sgnl' works by being affixed onto the strap of a smartwatch and transmitting vibrations through the wrist and hand when a call is being taken. From here, users simply place a bare finger by their ear in order to hear the caller clearly and without distortion.
Funding now on Kickstarter, the 'Sgnl' phone earpiece is designed to work with both iOS and Android smartwatches. With current projections, the 'Sgnl' will start shipping to backers of the device as soon as February 2017. Early bird pledges start at just $99 for the sophisticated accessory.
Speakerless Smartphone Earpieces
The 'Sgnl' Phone Earpiece Uses Bone Conduction Technology
Trend Themes
1. Bone Conduction Audio Transmitters - The advancement in bone conduction technology for audio transmission creates a disruptive innovation opportunity for smartphones, hearing aids, and music headphones manufacturers.
2. Smartwatch-compatible Audio Devices - The emergence of smartwatch-friendly audio devices creates a disruptive innovation opportunity for wearable tech accessories such as headsets and earbuds.
3. Alternative Audio Transmission Methods - The exploration of alternative audio transmission methods such as bone conduction creates a disruptive innovation opportunity for audio tech manufacturers in various industries such as smart home devices, gaming, and virtual reality.
Industry Implications
1. Smartphone Accessories - The 'Sgnl' phone earpiece and bone conduction audio technology create a disruptive innovation opportunity for the smartphone accessories market.
2. Wearable Technology - The compatibility of the 'Sgnl' phone earpiece with smartwatches creates a disruptive innovation opportunity for wearable technology manufacturers, including smartwatches and fitness trackers.
3. Healthcare and Assistive Technology - The ability of bone conduction technology to transmit audio while circumventing the eardrum creates a disruptive innovation opportunity for healthcare and assistive technology industries, specifically hearing aids and other auditory devices.