By Stephanie M.
Bose introduces Frames, a product combining the protection and style of premium sunglasses, the functionality and performance of wireless headphones, and the world’s first audio augmented reality platform — into one stylish wearable. Frames take micro-acoustics and voice control to an entirely new level, debuting the future of mobile sound in the tiniest, thinnest, most lightweight Bose system ever. With an open-ear design, Frames can stream music and information, take and make calls, and access virtual assistants — while keeping playlists, entertainment, and conversations private. Frames are available in January 2019.
“Bose Frames are both revolutionary and practical,” said Mehul Trivedi, director of Bose Frames. “They look and act like classic sunglasses — until you turn them on. And then you’re connected to your phone, contacts, the web, and all its audible content, just like headphones. There’s nothing else like them — they’re a breakthrough you have to see, wear, and hear to believe.”
Bose Frames come in two popular styles — square and angled, or round and slightly smaller. Both block up to 99% of UVA/UVB rays, and feature tinted lenses and distinct accents. They’re scratch and shatter resistant, and weigh 45 grams.
Bose Frames function like wireless headphones. A miniscule, wafer-thin acoustic package is set seamlessly in each arm’s interior — rather than an earbud, or attached component. For touch and voice control, an ultra-small microphone and multi-function button are embedded on the right temple for power and pairing, Siri and Google Assistant, calls and commands, or to pause and skip songs. The Bose Connect app provides additional features now, and software updates for new features in the future — like Bose AR.
Bose Frames use a lithium battery that connects to an included pogo-pin cable for charging. At average listening levels, they run up to 3.5 hours for playback and up to 12 hours on standby, and can be fully recharged in less than two hours. For smudges and storage, they come with a cleaning cloth/bag and protective case.
