Futuristic concepts that sound too good to be true? Such are the striking winners of the Sound Innovation design competition organised by Designboom, in association with consumer electronics and design experts Plantronics and Altec Lansing. The two victorious participants are the On-Time Sound headset system and the Altec Lansing Mini.
Stylish and efficient, the handy On-Time system sets a new era in the field of portable sound systems. It features a sleek headset and a high-tech bracelet which resembles a watch, and could actually replace one. The modern LCD screen on the bracelet displays music tracks, time and even the caller id of those trying to reach you.
Mini, on the other hand, aims to become the ideal mate for your lovely MP3 player when sharing is in your heart and mind. The miniature plug and play gadget boasts a glossy design and promises to keep playing your favourite music for you and your companions for hours. Its high quality sound output and its convenient size will render it a marketing magnet.
Sound goes highly portable, functional and minute, so watch out for the price tags as well as those hazardous holes in your pockets.
Sound MP3 Innovations
'On-Time' and ‘Mini' Impress in Design Competition
Trend Themes
1. Portable Sound Systems - Disruptive innovation opportunities lie in developing compact, sleek, and efficient portable sound systems with advanced features like integrated displays and caller ID.
2. Miniature Gadgets - There is potential for disruptive innovation in creating small, plug-and-play gadgets with high-quality sound output that can be easily connected to MP3 players for convenient music sharing.
3. Wearable Technology - Disruptive innovation opportunities exist in merging wearable technology with sound systems, such as designing high-tech bracelets that feature LCD screens to display music tracks and other information.
Industry Implications
1. Consumer Electronics - The consumer electronics industry can explore disruptive innovation by developing compact and feature-rich portable sound systems and miniature gadgets to cater to the growing demand for portable audio devices.
2. Audio Equipment - The audio equipment industry has an opportunity for disruptive innovation by creating high-quality sound output devices that are compact in size and can be easily connected to MP3 players for a seamless audio experience.
3. Wearable Technology - The wearable technology industry can leverage disruptive innovation by integrating sound systems into wearable devices like bracelets, offering users a stylish and convenient way to enjoy music on the go.