Bose ‘Audio ar’ sunglasses to hit the market in January

Audio manufacturer Bose will launch smart sunglasses in January. You can make calls, listen to music and conclave with your favorite voice assistant. For 2019, Bose also promises a number of ‘audio augmented reality’ applications for the Frames, as the glasses are called.

The Bose Frames can best be described as sunglasses with subtly integrated Bluetooth speakers and a microphone. Instead of a pair of ears, the sound comes from the temples of the glasses that, despite all the technology on board, weigh only 45 grams. On the right leg there is a multifunctional button with which you ‘turn on’ the sunglasses and pair, take phone calls or pause your music. You also control your voice assistant with it, where you can choose between Siri and the Google Assistant. With the companion Bose Connect app, you can install upgraded firmware over time and add new features, such as Bose AR.

Simultaneously with the Frames, Bose is also introducing its ‘audio augmented reality platform’. Unlike other AR glasses, the Frames does not add images to what the wearer sees, but the gadget provides an extra layer of audio where necessary. Thanks to the connection to the GPS function of your iPhone or Android smartphone, the sunglasses know your exact location at all times. For example, if you are at the Eiffel Tower or in the Rijksmuseum in front of the Night Watch, the Frames can provide all kinds of extra information about it. Only you don’t get to see that information, as with ‘normal’ AR glasses, but to hear it. According to the manufacturer, these types of Bose AR Experiences are currently in full development.

There will be two versions of the Bose Frames, both in matte black: the Alto and the slightly smaller Rondo, with rounder lenses. The sunglasses will hit the US market in January and will retail for $199. Nothing is known about the availability in other countries.