Designed for sun and sound, Bose Frames are the perfect Father's Day gift
Earlier this spring, Bose introduced the world to a new kind of wearable technology: Audio sunglasses.
Bose Frames combine premium protective sunglasses with the performance of wireless headphones for an audio augmented reality unlike anything before. And they’re the perfect Father’s Day gift for the dad in your life.
Available in two styles, the larger, Wayfarer-inspired “Alto” and smaller, more rounded “Rondo,” both feature the thinnest, smallest and most lightweight Bose system ever. The technology harnesses the power of micro-acoustics, voice control and personal audio to give users the ability to stream music, make calls and use virtual assistant while maintaining privacy. It’s everything he’ll want and need to keep him cool for the summer.
Shop it: Bose Frames Alto Audio Sunglasses, $199, walmart.com
So how exactly do these high-tech shades work?
Each of the two arms has a wafer-thin acoustic package set within the interior to produce discreet yet powerful sound for the user. With a Bluetooth range of 30 feet, the top right temple features a microphone for voice control (Bose Frames work with Siri and Google Assistant) and a multi-function button for pairing and touch controls.
But that’s not all.
While they don’t change what you see, Bose Frames also boast an audio augmented reality component. It works by using a 9-axis head motion sensor and the GPS from your iOS or Android device to add a layer of audio connected to where you’re located. So if you swear by Google Maps, these shades will help guide the way. There is also partner programming available on the Bose app to further enhance your location experience.
And no, all these great features don’t mean unnecessary bulk or weight. In fact, they’re pretty light at a mere 45 grams, considering all the technology it packs.
Design-wise, the Alto lenses are 52mm wide, the bridge is 18mm wide and temple length comes in at 150mm. The smaller Rondo style has 50mm-wide lenses, 16 mm bridge and the same 150mm temple length. Both pairs of sunglasses block up to 99 percent of UVA and UVB rays and are crafted with premium accents like gold-plated hinges and shatter and scratch-resistant lenses.
They also use a lithium battery that connects to a pogo-pin cable (included) for charging and run for up to 3.5 hours for playback and up to 12 on standby.
Shop it: Bose Frames Rondo Audio Sunglasses, $199, walmart.com
As far as reviews go, both get the thumbs up from audiophiles and tech shoppers on Walmart.com.
“These glasses are in a class of their own. They sound like a home theater system,” raved one 5-star reviewer.
“Could be the best Bose product ever,” wrote another. “These are awesome and well worth the price. I have several Bose products and this has become my favorite, even though it does have a limited use — outside in sunlight. I look forward to my walks and can't wait to use them ... I don't like ear buds that much as they hurt my ears (I have the Bose sound sports too), but these don't touch your ears and the sound is great. I thought I'd only be able to use these when I was alone because others would hear what I was listening to, but you can't hear the audio even a few feet away. Would work great on a plane I would think (will try in a few months). Taking calls works really well and the mic quality seems good as caller didn't know I was on Bluetooth. I sync this to my Apple Watch 4, and don't need to bring my phone on walks. Highly recommend!”
One Bose fan who bought the Rondo style wrote, “The frequency response is sensational and I was blown away by the circumaural nature of the audio. In many ways, the sound quality rivals that of over-ear cans. In short, if you have any of these concerns, I am confident you will be pleasantly surprised by these shades. If you are an audiophile like me that stays up to date on the latest trends, you can't go wrong with the Bose Frames Rondo!”
“This is not hyperbole. These ARE the next generation of personal audio,” explained another. “The sounds is amazing, without having to stick anything in your ear. I realize earbuds have become ubiquitous and I have mine in often. But, the freedom of hearing these sounds privately without anything in or over your ear is liberating ... and enjoyable. They are a breeze to use and look great too.”
Shop it: Bose Frames Alto Audio Sunglasses, $199, walmart.com
Shop it: Bose Frames Rondo Audio Sunglasses, $199, walmart.com
The editors at Yahoo Lifestyle are committed to finding you the best products at the best prices. At times, we may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page.
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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