Intel and 50 Cent’s SMS Audio Create Fitness-Focused headphones


BioSportFrom the smartwatch, the smart ring, Google glass, and even contact lenses, wearable gadgets have been fitted to numerous areas of the body. SMS Audio, the headphone company owned by rapper Cutris “50 Cent” Jackson, and Intel, the world's largest maker of chips, have just paired up on their first project, smart headphones. The fitness-focused headphones, BioSport, will be powered by Intel, and join the SMS Audio Sports Collection (which just launched in July). Smart wearables are helpful, but sometimes feel like a bulky nuisance rather than sporting something you're proud of. Additionally, so many of us rely on headphones during our day-to-day ventures, so why not sneak fitness technology inside something we already wear?

We first saw Intel show off a prototype of earphones that measure heart rate back at CES 2014. By taking the idea and joining with SMS Audio, they will be officially titled SMS Audio BioSport in-ear headphones powered by Intel (try saying that five times fast), but we will call them BioSport for short. LG also announced its own biometric buds at CES this year, which are on sale now, but differ by requiring the user to attach the ear buds to a clip-on medallion. In contrast, BioSport includes the headphones and the heart-rate monitor all in one piece; they look and act just like a regular pair of headphones.

BioSport1While wearing BioSport, your heart rate can be consistently measured. This includes sports activities as well as sleep. They work by sending infrared and accelerometer sensor data back to your smartphone via the 3.5mm audio jack. Intel and SMS Audio are expecting a broad market, from ultra marathoners to aspirational exercisers. BioSport will be compatible with the popular RunKeeper fitness app to start, which works by using heart-rate data to track workouts and show progress.

Intel is on a mission to drive innovation in the wearable technology sector. It hopes to outdo rivals like Apple and Samsung “in establishing a technology brand that defines cool for a new generation of consumers”. Partnering with SMS Audio will only compliment Intel's case by adding a new sense of design and expertise. It means “the final product sounds even better and is more attune to the needs of the customer”, says Michael Bell, corporate VP and GM of the New Devices Group at Intel. By eliminating the need of add-on devices, BioSport is a one-device fitness accessory offering both style and premier sound quality. Expect to see SMS Audio BioSport In-Ear Headphones powered by Intel to debut late this year.

Topics: Technology News Gadgets & Peripherals Intel Inventions & Innovations Smartphones & Mobile Devices

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