Why Bose Frames AR Sunglasses will Fail and still Succeed | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Bose’s audio sunglasses blend sound and augmented reality but face skepticism on comfort and practicality.

Key Insights

• 😎 Bose audio sunglasses are promoting a unique blend of sound and augmented reality.
• 😑 The price point is set at $200 for pre-orders, aiming for delivery before Christmas.
• 😎 There are concerns about the comfort and practicality of wearing sunglasses with built-in audio components.
• ❓ The potential market for augmented reality in audio devices is still largely unexplored.
• 👂 The current design may limit the user experience due to weight and sound quality issues.
• 🎧 Bose's innovation could influence traditional headphones if augmented reality features are incorporated in the future.
• 🤑 The review reflects a broader skepticism about multi-functional devices versus specialized ones.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: What are the main features of Bose's audio sunglasses?

The Bose Audio Sunglasses feature built-in speakers designed to deliver sound directly into the wearer's ears, allowing for an augmented reality experience without needing screens or traditional headphones. They come in two styles—Auto and Rondo—and include technologies such as accelerometers and gyroscopes for spatial sound reproduction.

Q: Why does the reviewer believe the Bose sunglasses may flop?

The reviewer points out four primary concerns: the impracticality of wearing sunglasses long-term, potential discomfort due to weight, inferior sound quality compared to headphones or earbuds, and limitations of functionality without a visual screen for augmented reality applications.

Q: How does the reviewer see the future of augmented reality in the audio industry?

The reviewer predicts that augmented reality headphones will become commonplace within three years, similar to how wireless headphones are now expected. They suggest that if Bose successfully integrates AR features into traditional headphones, it could spark competition and advance the industry tremendously.

Q: What are some potential applications for the Bose audio sunglasses?

One possible application is using GPS integration to provide location-specific information, such as identifying buildings and streets. Additionally, it can offer an interactive music experience, allowing users to browse playlists through head movements, complemented by auditory feedback as they do so.

Q: What alternative product does the reviewer suggest might be more practical than audio sunglasses?

The reviewer suggests that instead of integrating audio into sunglasses, Bose might have better served consumers by creating attachable audio speakers for existing prescription glasses, as this would cater to those who don't wear sunglasses consistently.

Q: What is the reviewer's stance on the sound quality of the Bose sunglasses?

The reviewer is skeptical about the sound quality of the Bose audio sunglasses, noting that the small size of the speakers suggests limited capability, particularly in bass response. They feel the product is designed more for ambient sound and augmented reality experiences rather than high-quality music listening.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Bose's new frames combine audio and augmented reality, featuring two styles—Auto and Rondo—available for pre-order at $200 before Christmas in the US.

• The reviewer expresses skepticism about the practicality of wearing sunglasses for long periods, their weight, sound quality, and potential usefulness without a visual interface.

• Despite concerns about the Bose audio sunglasses flopping, the reviewer believes augmented reality audio could eventually lead to innovation in the headphones industry.