With the gradual disappearance of the headphone jack from our smartphones, wireless headphones and earphones are becoming more and more popular. In addition, Bluetooth technology continues to evolve, allowing more autonomy for this type of product.
However, compared to wired headphones and earphones, Bluetooth accessories have one big drawback: they need to be regularly charged. One more chore!
A self-charging helmet, thanks to photovoltaic cells
The good news is that brands are exploring an alternative for charging wireless headphones and earphones using solar energy. As reported by The Verge, for example, Adidas recently launched its self-charging ADIDAS RPT-02 SOL Bluetooth headset.
Indeed, it is charged with light, thanks to a material that converts any form of light, whether natural or artificial, into energy to recharge the battery. When this battery is charged, it provides an autonomy of 80 hours.
The product is also IPX4 certified, making it sweat and splash resistant.
Unfortunately, the product sheet does not mention advanced technologies such as active noise cancellation. However, for those who are tired of having to plug in their headphones, this Adidas headset is the ideal solution. Price: 229 euros on the Adidas Headphones site.
Not the first product of its kind
It is important to specify that this Adidas helmet is not the first to use this technology proposed by Exeger. Called Powerfoyle, this material which makes it possible to include photovoltaic cells in the design of audio products is also used by the Urbanisata brand. Its Los Angeles helmet uses exactly the same principle and also provides 80 hours of battery life.
Last year, the Urbanista Los Angeles headphones were tested by our colleagues from The Verge and according to the feedback of this media, it is possible to charge the battery to 100% even when you are in a dimly lit room (therefore, no need to expose the product to the sun).
Urbanista has also launched wireless headphones using the same principle. But on these products, it is the case and not the headphones that are charged via the light.
The JBL brand has also taken an interest in this technology, and launched a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo to develop its JBL REFLECT Eternal headphones, a product that also uses Exeger’s photovoltaic cells. But ultimately, the campaign was canceled, and JBL had to reimburse the participants.
Otherwise, the use of this technology is not limited to headphones. For example, the POC brand has developed a cycling helmet with a rear light (for visibility) which also uses Powerfoyle technology.
Source: Presse-Citron
I am a technology author with 8 years of experience in journalism. My writing covers the latest technology advancements and trends, drawing on my expertise in news journalism and social media platforms. I have contributed to major media outlets such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Reuters.
