Embarking on a long term wireless integration collaboration,
Burton Snowboards and
Motorola Inc.
recently revealed plans to launch a collection of Bluetooth-enabled
winter gear for snowboarding tech types that want to stay connected.
Burton and Motorola have been and will continue to work together to
explore the possibility of integrating Bluetooth Wireless Technology
into snowboard apparel, enabling users to control their music and
mobile phones while on the slopes, the companies said.
The end result is a series of three technologically advanced Burton Audex Snowboard Jackets
with wireless connectivity that give consumers access to their cell
phone and iPod (or both at once) without having to handle the devices
in any way.
"When you talk about Bluetooth headsets, the typical person uses
them on-the-go, whether in the airport, walking down the street, or
wherever else," Scott Martin, Global Marketing Director of Motorola's
accessories business, told Ziff Davis Internet.
"However, there are also huge segments of the population where
technology isn't so relevant to their lives, so we want to take
technology out to their world. Partners like Burton allow us to take
Bluetooth to entirely new spaces."
The Bluetooth-enabled jackets, with phone and iPod zipper pockets, utilize embedded Audex technology.
The Audex system operates via a removable module (with large buttons
and tactile feedback for easy access), which gives consumers one-touch
control for their mobile devices, according to a company
representative.
Each device connects in various ways; Users can access their mobile
phone through Motorola's Bluetooth wireless link, while a hidden wired
iPod connection links the MP3 player and detachable hood stereo
speakers to Audex's next-gen outerwear.
Burton's series of Audex Jacket boasts a number of additional features, including a microphone embedded in the collar.
The jacket sleeves feature a mini caller ID for screening purposes,
as well as a control panel that lets the user take or make phone calls
and manage music on their iPod.
"While Burton is a lifestyle brand, we're the technology partner,"
Martin said. "We're applying our technology and Bluetooth expertise to
create what we've coined 'wearable wireless.'"
All three coats are compatible with Generation 3 or newer iPods
(with the exception of the Shuffle) and any brand of Bluetooth 1.1 or
1.2-enabled phones that support hands-free or headset profiles.
The jackets, slated to hit shelves in December, will be available in three styles.
Burton's Audex Cargo Jacket is offered in True Black, Mocha or Blue
Frost, while the Down Jacket comes in New Brick, Granite or True Black.
Burton will also put out an Audex Duffel Jacket for women, in True Black, Khaki13 or Mocha Plaid.
All three styles retail for $599.95, and will be available for purchase through the Burton Web site.
Burton has also unveiled plans to roll out wireless winter accessories through a Motorola collaboration with its R.E.D. Impact Protection company, which makes Burton-brand helmets, the company said.
A joint venture between R.E.D. and Motorola has resulted in wearable
wireless technology by way of their Tantrum Audex helmet and Ordinance
Audex padded hat.
Both products feature a Bluetooth wireless connection to compatible stereo devices and mobile phone.
The hat and helmet are each compatible with any iPod, MD, CD or tape player.
In terms of wireless connectivity, the head gear connects with
any devices that support Bluetooth Stereo Music profiles A2DP and
AVRCP.
An integrated headset can also be removed and used on its own,
giving users access to a 30-foot range of Bluetooth Class 2 wireless
connection.
In addition, users can access their iTunes and such through DJ-style
headphones or built-in speakers, according to a Burton representative.
"This wearable technology space is going to become an emerging
trend," Martin said. "As we look at different people and the way they
integrate technology into their lives to stay connected, it's really
finally coming together across the board with products from a whole
range of industries. The key is not just throwing the technology in
there, but making sure it's easy to use and something the audience can
relate to."
The Tantrum Audex helmet is available in Matte Black, Stealth Gray
or White/Silver, while the Ordinance Audex Padded Hat comes in either
black or white.
Both products will go on sale this December and will retail for $249.95 and $179.95 respectively.