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Plantronics M55 and M25 bluetooth headsets ears-on

Sean Cooper — Tue, 08 May 2012 22:34:00 EST

Plantronics has launched two headsets at this year's CTIA: the M55 and M25. Sure, we'd bet dollars to donuts that piles of companies offer more bells and whistles but the M55's $49 and the M25's $39 price tag will likely garner some fans. The M55 features voice activated answering, 11 hour talk time, 16-day standby, DSP noise reduction, a physical barrier on the mic to reduce wind noise, and one free year of the Vocalyst service. The M25 apes its pricier sibling except it lacks the Vocalyst service and voice activated answering. Both devices feature a deep sleep mode that extends standby time out to 150 days once your device steps out of range of your mobile for longer than 90 mins. Best thing? You can barely notice when you're wearing one, though the rubber parts are a bit grippy and might tend to pull hair when being put in and removed from your listening place.

Gallery: Plantronics M55 and M25 bluetooth headsets ears-on

Zachary Lutz contributed to this report.

Plantronics M55 and M25 bluetooth headsets ears-on originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 May 2012 22:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics BackBeat Go headset sports tangle-free cord, 'rich' stereo sound

Zach Honig — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 19:01:00 EST

Plantronics has made a name for itself in the wireless headset space, but there's plenty of room to grow when it comes to premium stereo offerings. BackBeat Go is the company's smallest and lightest wireless earbud set to date, tipping the scale at 13 grams, or "about the weight of three nickels." The cordless rig includes a pair of earbuds linked with a flat tangle-free cord, with inline controls to adjust volume and an integrated mic for calls. The Bluetooth-enabled Go can sync up with one device at a time, so you'll need to repeat the pairing process if switching between phones or to a tablet -- and you should be able to snag 4.5 hours of listening and talk time or 10 hours of standby with a single charge. Digital noise reduction and echo canceling play into the call experience, while the "deep, rich, stereo sound" means the earbuds are equally suited for leisure. Sound good to you? You can snag your own set for a cool $100 by clicking through to the source link below.

Continue reading Plantronics BackBeat Go headset sports tangle-free cord, 'rich' stereo sound

Plantronics BackBeat Go headset sports tangle-free cord, 'rich' stereo sound originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics Clarity Fortissimo speakerphone hands-on (video)

Brad Molen — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 10:10:00 EST

Music aficionados will recognize the term "fortissimo." It's used to signify belting out the tunes as loud as humanly possible, which is exactly what Clarity is hoping to achieve with its speakerphone that uses the name. The Clarity Fortissimo is geared toward those who are mobility-challenged, offering a massively loud 95dB speaker, huge buttons, voice activation, Bluetooth and DECT connectivity, and a large touchscreen display. The Fortissimo offers Plantronics' Vocalyst technology, which has the ability to push emails, messages and even social network updates. It also has a dedicated button that automatically dials Clarity's support center, where a rep can then program the phone remotely for you. Expect to see the Fortissimo available this spring -- we were quoted April / May -- and will retail for $500. We have images and video after the break.

Gallery: Plantronics Clarity Fortissimo hands-on

Continue reading Plantronics Clarity Fortissimo speakerphone hands-on (video)

Plantronics Clarity Fortissimo speakerphone hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Clarity reveals Fortissimo speakerphone for folks with mobility issues

Michael Gorman — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

It's not often that speakerphones grace Engadget's pages, but Plantronics' Clarity division has created a new such device tailored to the needs of folks with mobility issues and difficulties using their hands. Called the Fortissimo, it's got an outsized LCD touchscreen for easy viewing and prodigious voice command capabilities courtesy of Plantronics' Vocalyst technology. Vocalyst lets users send emails and texts, update social networks, and access other phone functions with the spoken word, and can connect with headsets via Bluetooth. Physical phone interaction's on tap too courtesy of air switches activated by blowing on them and oversized pillow switches that are as easily hit with arms and legs as they are heads and shoulders. Lastly, there's ClarityLogic customer service that gives company reps the ability to adjust settings and upgrade Fortissimo remotely. Clarity's showing it off this week at CES, and the Fortissimo will be released this summer. PR's after the break.

Continue reading Clarity reveals Fortissimo speakerphone for folks with mobility issues

Clarity reveals Fortissimo speakerphone for folks with mobility issues originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics GameCom 780 7.1 surround sound gaming headset hands-on

Sean Buckley — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 18:14:00 EST

Leaked slideshows don't lie -- Plantronics is stepping up its PC gaming headset offerings. In addition to the GameCom 780, the Dolby 7.1 virtual surround sound cans we saw yesterday, the outfit is also marching out the GameCom 380 -- a lower end twin that lacks the 780's Dolby chops. Plantronics is bringing both headsets to CES, but gave us a shot at trying on a pair of 780s a few days early -- read on to see how they fit.

Gallery: Plantronics GameCom 780 7.1 surround sound gaming headset -- hands on

Continue reading Plantronics GameCom 780 7.1 surround sound gaming headset hands-on

Plantronics GameCom 780 7.1 surround sound gaming headset hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 18:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics accidentally outs GameCom 780 7.1 surround sound headset

Zachary Lutz — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 20:17:00 EST

If you insist on quality equipment to feed your fragging frenzy, then take note -- it looks as if the folks at Plantronics are about to unveil a serious piece of audio kit for pro gamers. A leaked slideshow has outed the GameCom 780, an over-the-ear headset that features virtual 7.1 surround sound with Dolby Headphone and Pro Logic IIx technology. Each can features a sizable 40mm driver and swivels to lay flat for transportation. Plantronics also touts the reinforced wiring and joints of this setup -- useful for rambunctious LAN parties -- which features a 6.5 foot (2 meter) USB cable. Naturally, there's also a requisite noise-canceling microphone, along with an on-ear volume wheel and mute switch. There's even a button to activate the surround sound function, although this goodie will only be useful to PC gamers -- the necessary Dolby software is Windows-only. As if any dedicated gamer would be caught dead with any other rig.

[Thanks, John]

Plantronics accidentally outs GameCom 780 7.1 surround sound headset originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 20:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics Voyager Pro HD headset knows when it's kissing your cheek

Sharif Sakr — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 03:04:00 EST

If you drive around all day bumping your gums with remote friends and colleagues, then you can't really get along with those more diminutive headsets on the market. That's where the fat and proud Voyager range from Plantronics comes in, with features like all-day battery life, a long boom, A2DP and an InstantMeeting app to connect you to conf calls on your iOS, Android or BlackBerry. The latest Voyager Pro HD model is the first to contain sensors that detect proximity to your jowls and allow the device to re-route calls appropriately. The Pro HD is available now at $100, which includes a year's subscription to the company's Vocalyst voice recognition service -- although we suspect a certain newcomer might have that area covered. The full PR is a click away.

Update: We've just been reminded that the earlier Pro UC headset also had the sensors, so please ignore what it says above (and in the Plantronics press release) about the Pro HD being the first. Thanks, b-e-q.

Continue reading Plantronics Voyager Pro HD headset knows when it's kissing your cheek

Plantronics Voyager Pro HD headset knows when it's kissing your cheek originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Oct 2011 03:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics intros Marque M155, its lightest Bluetooth headset for smartphone users

Zachary Lutz — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 00:01:00 EST

Along with providing hands-free convenience for mobile users on-the-go, Bluetooth headsets serve a fine purpose for crazies, giving them something to point to when they're rambling incoherently to themselves. Now, the latest offering from Plantronics brings greater comfort and style to both types of users. The Marque M155 heralds the company's smallest and lightest headset to date, which weighs in at just 7 grams -- approximately the weight of a ballpoint pen. Designed specifically for Android and iOS phones (though widely compatible with more), the M155 offers voice-guided pairing assistance, customized apps and the ability to answer or ignore calls with verbal commands. What's more, all purchasers will receive a one-year subscription to the company's Vocalyst service, which offers the ability to send email, update Twitter, check the weather, listen to news feeds and more -- all hands free. Available in jet black or arctic white, the Marque M155 will retail for approximately $60 and is available for pre-order beginning today.

Continue reading Plantronics intros Marque M155, its lightest Bluetooth headset for smartphone users

Plantronics intros Marque M155, its lightest Bluetooth headset for smartphone users originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nuance Dragon Dictate 2.5 for Mac review

Darren Murph — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 16:01:00 EST

Voice recognition. Or, more specifically, speech recognition. It's one of those technological wonders that we all seem to take for granted, while simultaneously throwing laughter its way for not being nearly sophisticated enough. Anyone that's used an early generation Ford SYNC system -- or pretty much any vehicular voice command system -- knows exactly what we're getting at. While processing speeds and user interfaces have made great strides in the past handful of years, voice recognition has managed to continually disappoint. It's not that things aren't improving, it's just that they aren't improving at the same rate as the hardware and software surrounding them. Even today, most new automobiles have to be spoken to loudly, pointedly and directly, and even then it's a crapshoot as to whether or not your command will be recognized and acted upon.

For as much as we complain, we totally get it. Teaching a computer program how to recognize, understand and act upon the movement of human vocal chords is a Herculean task. Throw in nearly unlimited amounts of dialect and regional variation with even a single language, and it's a wonder that programs such as Nuance's Dragon Dictate even exist. Teaching a vehicle how to route calls, adjust volume and tweak a radio station is one thing, but having a program that turns actual speech into presentable documents requires a heightened level of accuracy. The newest build of Dragon Dictate for Mac (v2.5) allows users to seamlessly combine dictation with mouse and keyboard input in Microsoft Word 2011; it also gives yappers the ability to more finely control how Dragon formats text such as dates, times, numbers and addresses, while a free iOS app turns your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch into a wireless microphone. We recently pushed our preconceived notions about this stuff aside in order to spend a solid week relying on our voice instead of our fingertips -- read on to see how it turned on.

Gallery: Nuance Dragon Dictate 2.5 for Mac screenshots

Continue reading Nuance Dragon Dictate 2.5 for Mac review

Nuance Dragon Dictate 2.5 for Mac review originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Sep 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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FCC Fridays: September 2, 2011

Brad Molen — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 10:02:00 EST

We here at Engadget Mobile tend to spend ~~a lot of~~ way too much time poring over the latest FCC filings, be it on the net or directly on the ol' Federal Communications Commission's site. Since we couldn't possibly (want to) cover all the stuff that goes down there, we've gathered up all the raw info you may want (but probably don't need). Enjoy!

Phones

Read - Samsung I919
Read - Samsung I727
Read - Samsung GT-S5360
Read - LG AS680
Read - LG C800
Read - LG L55C
Read - LG VS920
Read - HTC PI39100
Read - HTC PI39110
Read - Mobo Murano
Read - ZTE N860
Read - Motorola P56MA2 (GSM / WCDMA)
Read - Motorola T56MP1 (Sprint CDMA)
Read - Sonim XP1301
Read - Sharp SH80F

Peripherals

Read - Huawei E560S-6
Read - Plantronics M155

FCC Fridays: September 2, 2011 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics Calisto 800 speakerphone and Voyager Pro UC headset make concalls cool again

Tim Stevens — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 22:47:00 EST

We'd all rather be flown to some exotic, Caribbean location for our next corporate get-together, but in these hard economic times sometimes a good 'ol audio bridge makes the most sense. Increasingly those concalls are happening via some sort of VOIP bridge, and Plantronics' latest are ready for it. First up is the Calisto 800 series "multi speakerphone" devices, which offer connectivity to an analog phone line, a mobile phone over Bluetooth, and even a PC over USB. This lets you easily dial in to just about anything and naturally offers a full duplex speakerphone with noise cancellation and an LCD with caller ID. There's even an optional wireless microphone that you can plunk down on the table so the lamentations of the entire QA team will be picked up loud and clear.

Also new is a revised version of the Voyager Pro UC, a rather more traditional Bluetooth headset with an extended boom for better voice pickup and the ability to pair to a mobile phone and a PC (via a tiny USB adapter) simultaneously. It'll even do A2DP so you hold music won't be the only tunes you hear. Both appear to be available now, and both start at $199.95, putting them out of reach for most non-corporate attendees.

Continue reading Plantronics Calisto 800 speakerphone and Voyager Pro UC headset make concalls cool again

Plantronics Calisto 800 speakerphone and Voyager Pro UC headset make concalls cool again originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 22:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Early Venue Pro adopters get free Bluetooth headsets, the infinitely rewarding lesson of patience

Ross Miller — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 22:28:00 EST

Still bummed to be waiting for your Venue Pro? Dell's amended its December 14th shipping update -- henceforth known as (this time only, and then never again) as "VP Day" -- to let yearning customers know that, if they had ordered the device before that day, a present was coming in due course. Nay, not a present, a Thank You in the form of a free Plantronics Explorer 240 Bluetooth headset. That's shipping in four to six weeks, excusing any ironic bouts of delay of its own. Let's just hope it doesn't beat your Windows Phone 7 device to the doorstep.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Early Venue Pro adopters get free Bluetooth headsets, the infinitely rewarding lesson of patience originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 22:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics Voyager PRO UC senses your Bluetooth wants and needs, softly whispers in your ear

Joanna Stern — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 15:20:00 EST

We know, that headline makes it seem like the Plantronics Voyager Pro UC is going to seduce you, and well, after spending sometime with the headset yesterday at D: Dive Into Mobile we're thinking it may actually be pretty hard to resist. While it's not as snazzy as the Jawbone Icon or the Jabra Stone, its ear piece and ear hook contain capacitive sensors that know when you've got the device on your ear or in your hand. So, not only can the headset automatically switch a call or song from your phone to the headset when you put it on, but even if it's paired it won't ring the headset unless it's actually on your ear. That means if you've got it paired but have it in your pocket or across the room, you'll be able to pick it up on your phone without a problem.

On top of that, the Pro will come with a USB dongle and Voice Alerts software, which integrates with Microsoft Outlook. When configured, the software will read the subject line of an email sent by certain specified contacts into your ear. We told you it was seductive! Sadly, the Voyager Pro UC won't actually be out until early next year and we don't know anything on pricing yet, but in the meantime check out some more pics of the device below.

Gallery: Plantronics Voyager Pro UC hands-on

Plantronics Voyager PRO UC senses your Bluetooth wants and needs, softly whispers in your ear originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Dec 2010 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Engadget Show returns, this Saturday, May 22nd with Sprint's Evo 4G, Adobe CTO Kevin Lynch, and an Engadget editors Q&A!

Nilay Patel — Wed, 19 May 2010 17:45:00 EST

Guess what humans? It's that time again -- the Engadget Show returns this Saturday, May 22nd at 5pm... and it's shaping up to be a killer! First up, we'll have an exclusive interview with Adobe's CTO Kevin Lynch (taped at the Google I/O conference), which is sure to be both informative and wildly entertaining. What's more, Josh, Paul, and Nilay will be putting the new HTC Evo 4G through its paces live onstage, then they'll be joined by our very own Chris Ziegler and Laura June for a hard-hitting round of Q&A with the audience. That's right, it's your chance to ask the Engadget editors anything, live and in-person, plus much more (see instructions in the bullet points below). And as usual, we'll have some rocking 8-bit music from minusbaby and visuals from notendo and plenty of those good 'ol Engadget Show shenanigans.

You like giveaways? Well then, this is your lucky week (if you attend). Many of you will be walking away with shiny new Voyager Pro headsets, courtesy of Plantronics and we've got tons of Engadget t-shirts to hand out!

Oh, and did we mention we're also giving away a brand new iPad (courtesy of The Little App Factory and bundled with all of their software titles)? Well we are, alongside a handful of other goodies.

The Engadget Show is sponsored by Sprint, and will take place at the Times Center, part of The New York Times Building in the heart of New York City at 41st St. between 7th and 8th Avenues (see map after the break). Tickets are -- as always -- free to anyone who would like to attend, but seating is limited, and tickets will be first come, first served... so get there early!

Here's all the info you need:

There is no admission fee -- tickets are completely free
The event is all ages
Ticketing will begin at the Times Center at 2:30PM on Saturday, doors will open for seating at 4:30PM, and the show begins at 5PM
You cannot collect tickets for friends or family -- anyone who would like to come must be present to get a ticket
Seating capacity in the Times Center is about 340, and once we're full, we're full
The venue is located at 41st St. between 7th and 8th Avenues in New York City (map after the break)
The show length is around an hour
If you have a question for the editor Q&A, email your question to showquestions [at] engadget [dot] com, or hand the question in to us at the venue by 3:30PM. You must hand in the query on an index card or piece of paper when you pick up your tickets.

If you're a member of the media who wishes to attend, please contact us at: engadgetshowmedia [at] engadget [dot] com, and we'll try to accommodate you. All other non-media questions can be sent to: engadgetshow [at] engadget [dot] com.

Subscribe to the Show:

[iTunes] Subscribe to the Show directly in iTunes (M4V).
[Zune] Subscribe to the Show directly in the Zune Marketplace (M4V).
[RSS M4V] Add the Engadget Show feed (M4V) to your RSS aggregator and have it delivered automatically.

Continue reading The Engadget Show returns, this Saturday, May 22nd with Sprint's Evo 4G, Adobe CTO Kevin Lynch, and an Engadget editors Q&A!

The Engadget Show returns, this Saturday, May 22nd with Sprint's Evo 4G, Adobe CTO Kevin Lynch, and an Engadget editors Q&A! originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 May 2010 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Engadget Show returns, this Saturday, May 22nd with Sprint's Evo 4G, Adobe CTO Kevin Lynch, and an Engadget editors Q&A!

Chad Mumm — Mon, 17 May 2010 18:44:00 EST

There is no admission fee -- tickets are completely free
The event is all ages
Ticketing will begin at the Times Center at 2:30PM on Saturday, doors will open for seating at 4:30PM, and the show begins at 5PM
You cannot collect tickets for friends or family -- anyone who would like to come must be present to get a ticket
Seating capacity in the Times Center is about 340, and once we're full, we're full
The venue is located at 41st St. between 7th and 8th Avenues in New York City (map after the break)
The show length is around an hour
If you have a question for the editor Q&A, email your question to showquestions [at] engadget [dot] com, or hand the question in to us at the venue by 3:30PM. You must hand in the query on an index card or piece of paper when you pick up your tickets.

Continue reading The Engadget Show returns, this Saturday, May 22nd with Sprint's Evo 4G, Adobe CTO Kevin Lynch, and an Engadget editors Q&A!

The Engadget Show returns, this Saturday, May 22nd with Sprint's Evo 4G, Adobe CTO Kevin Lynch, and an Engadget editors Q&A! originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 May 2010 18:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics Explorer 395 Bluetooth headset review

Richard Lai — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 12:23:00 EST

At Engadget, we're used to playing with premium Bluetooth headsets like the Jabra Stone and Jawbone Icon, so it's only natural this $49.95 Plantronics headset would lower our expectations, but turns out it's not bad for the money. For starters, the actual earpiece looks much better than the renders we saw, with a retro look that we quite liked. We're also promised easy operation with few buttons -- the silver paddle-like button (with LEDs underneath) for phone calls and Bluetooth pairing; the black volume button on one side with five incremental volume steps; and the ridged power slide switch on the other side. You'll find a micro-USB port at the end of the silver button, followed by the ear plug underneath and the mic on the other end. Enough with the list of features -- read on to find out how well this headset performs.

Gallery: Plantronics Explorer 395 Bluetooth headset review

Continue reading Plantronics Explorer 395 Bluetooth headset review

Plantronics Explorer 395 Bluetooth headset review originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Apr 2010 12:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics goes chrometastic with Explorer 395 Bluetooth headset

Richard Lai — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

Who says Bluetooth headsets aren't cool any more? Not Plantronics. Today, the California-based company released the Explorer 395 earpiece -- a $49.95 earpiece in both black and bronze flavors, and aimed at first-time Bluetooth users. How so? You get dedicated buttons for volume, power and phone call, which puts the confusing single-button-operated headsets to shame. Being a budget line, there's no fancy noise-cancellation technology offered here, although the 0.39-ounce weight and five-hour talk time (seven days of battery on standby) seem to give a good bang for the buck. Still, at the end of the day it's all about real-life appearance and audio quality, so we'll hold our judgement until we get a review unit later this week. Stay tuned.

Continue reading Plantronics goes chrometastic with Explorer 395 Bluetooth headset

Plantronics goes chrometastic with Explorer 395 Bluetooth headset originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics Voyager PRO UC headset does Bluetooth and VoIP

Darren Murph — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:11:00 EST

Considering that Bluetooth headset makers are now dealing with the harsh realization that consumers don't actually like these things any more, Plantronics -- a staple in the sector -- is hoping to snag some dollars from the unknowing corporate purchasing managers in attendance. The Voyager PRO UC is a dual-mode headset that packs integrated Bluetooth capabilities and ships with a USB dongle that allows softphone conversations (think Skype) to take place on your headset rather than through your laptop's built-in microphone / speaker. Users can even stream audio over it and hear alerts when a VoIP call rings in, and as expected, there's quite a bit of noise nixing technology baked in. The only problem? The $199.95 price tag that'll be affixed to it when it ships later this month.

Filed under: Cellphones, Peripherals, Wearables

Plantronics Voyager PRO UC headset does Bluetooth and VoIP originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics Voyager PRO gets purchased, unboxed early

Darren Murph — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:52:00 EST

Plantronics isn't planning to share intimate details about its Voyager PRO Bluetooth headset until April 23rd, but evidently its supply chain executives didn't exactly touch base with marketing before sending out stock to Best Buy. Jeff and John both managed to procure the $119.99 Bluetooth headset over the weekend, and we've got the shots to prove it. Based on the teaser site down in the read link, this here headset should be it's most advanced yet, but for a buck twenty, it better answer and respond to our calls without us having to intervene.

Update: Plantronics pinged us to say the price point here should be $99. Interesting.

[Thanks, Jeff and John]

Gallery: Plantronics Voyager PRO gets purchased, unboxed early

Filed under: Peripherals

Plantronics Voyager PRO gets purchased, unboxed early originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics Voyager PRO gets purchased, unboxed early

Darren Murph — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:52:00 EST

Gallery: Plantronics Voyager PRO gets purchased, unboxed early

Filed under: Peripherals

Plantronics Voyager PRO gets purchased, unboxed early originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The word is on the street about Altec Lansing's BackBeat Bluetooth headphones

Tim Stevens — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 09:55:00 EST

We all yearn for a life lived sans wires, yet many of us still find our media players dangling from the things. Mono Bluetooth headsets are already everywhere, but this could be the year that those of the stereo variety take off, and Altec Lansing's hoping its new BackBeat series will be a contender. They're made in partnership with earpiece-guru Plantronics, so callers will find integrated voice dialing, omnidirectional microphones, 7 hours of talk time, and AudioIQ to boost volume when you're in a noisy situation. For the music listener the sets include tune-channeling, canal-sealing buds, a behind-the-head band, and support for A2DP, AVRCP, HSP v1.1 and HFPv1.5. For those devices that list doesn't cover (we're looking at you, iPhone), the $130 BackBeat 906 includes a small transmitter. Everyone else can opt for the otherwise identical but transmitter-less BackBeat 903, which is $30 cheaper. We look forward to getting our ears on these at CES -- hopefully after they've had a thorough cleaning.

[Via iPodNN]

Filed under: Cellphones, Portable Audio

The word is on the street about Altec Lansing's BackBeat Bluetooth headphones originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The word is on the street about Altec Lansing's BackBeat Bluetooth headphones

Tim Stevens — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 09:54:00 EST

Filed under: Peripherals, Accessories

The word is on the street about Altec Lansing's BackBeat Bluetooth headphones originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 09:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Headsets.com giving away gear to those nailed by CA's new handsfree legislation

Joshua Fruhlinger — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 15:40:00 EST

We feel for all of you in California who are dealing with the new hands-free legislation that came down upon you today like an edict from your overlords. If you're one of the unlucky few who get nailed by the 5-0 for talking on your cellphone while driving, though, there's some silver in those dark clouds. Headsets.com is giving away the Plantronics Discovery 925 bluetooth earpiece -- worth $150 clams -- in exchange for proof that you were pulled over. Now, don't go talking on your cellphone in the hope of getting one of these, though -- that $20 fine could get you a decent headset today anyway.

Filed under: Cellphones, Transportation

Headsets.com giving away gear to those nailed by CA's new handsfree legislation originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Jun 2008 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics, Jabra intro Discovery 925, BT4010 Bluetooth headsets

Donald Melanson — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 19:01:00 EST

Those in the market for a new Bluetooth headset now have a pair of new options to consider from two of the big handsfree players, with Plantronics and Jabra recently introducing their new Discovery 925 and BT4010 models. For its part, Plantronics looks to be after the more style-conscious user, with its 925 headset boasting the company's trademark VFrame design and your choice of Onyx Black, Alchemy Gold, and Cerise Pink colors. On the specs front, you can expect up to five hours of talk time, and AudioIQ noise reduction technology, along with a carrying case that also doubles as a charger. Look for it to set you back $150 when it hits stores next month. The Jabra, on the other hand, keeps things more conventional-looking, with a handy LCD display offering a bit of an upgrade over the usual blinkin' LEDs. Otherwise, you can expect a decent six hours of talk time, and so-called e-SCO technology, which promises to improve voice transfer from headset to phone. Jabra's promising to deliver this one sometime in the spring for $60.

Read - Plantronics Discovery 925
Read - Jabra BT 4010 [Via Phone Arena]

Filed under: Peripherals

Plantronics, Jabra intro Discovery 925, BT4010 Bluetooth headsets originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 Apr 2008 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics intros "military grade" Explorer 370 Bluetooth headset

Donald Melanson — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:51:00 EST

While we're guessing most of you likely won't be putting the military grade-ness of Plantronics' new Explorer 370 Bluetooth headset to the test, you'll likely still find it a little reassuring to know that it passes all the requisite specifications for water, dust and shock resistance, and boasts a new "windscreen technology" to ensure clear calls even in tough conditions. Apart from that, however, the headset appears to be a pretty standard deal, with it boasting seven hours of talk time and eight days standby on a charge, and the usual features like voice-activated dialing and last number redial. Look for this one to set you back $80 when it hits retailers in March, with the less rugged Explorer 360 also set to be available at the same time for $70.

Filed under: Peripherals

Plantronics intros "military grade" Explorer 370 Bluetooth headset originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics intros "military grade" Explorer 370 Bluetooth headset

Donald Melanson — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:51:00 EST

Filed under: Peripherals, Wireless

Plantronics intros "military grade" Explorer 370 Bluetooth headset originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Black Friday Giveaways (part 3): Plantronics Discovery 640 Bluetooth headset

Ryan Block — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 03:53:00 EST

Ok everybody, here goes round three. This time we've got a Plantronics Discovery 640 Bluetooth headset. Ready? Here's the deal.

We'll put up a gadget on the site, and you can only enter it until the next gadget lands (usually within a couple of hours). If you miss your shot, sorry, we're moving on to the next gadget. Good luck!

Oh, and don't forget the rules. (Yeah, there are always rules.)

Leave a comment below. That's it! Who loves you, baby.
You may only enter this specific giveaway once. If you enter this giveaway more than once you'll be automatically disqualified, etc. (Yes, we have robots that thoroughly check to ensure fairness.) You can enter different giveaways in today's Black Friday giveaways, but you can only enter this one once.
If you enter more than once, only activate one comment. This is pretty self explanatory. Just be careful and you'll be fine.
Contest is open to anyone in the 50 States, 18 or older! Sorry, we don't make this rule (we hate excluding anyone), so be mad at our lawyers or US contest laws if you have to be mad.
Winners will be chosen randomly.
Entries can be submitted until the next contest goes up. After that we're all done. Good luck!
Full rules can be found here.

Last round's winner: Ray! (Remember, winners are selected at random.)

Filed under: Peripherals, Wireless

Black Friday Giveaways (part 3): Plantronics Discovery 640 Bluetooth headset originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 23 Nov 2007 03:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics Voyager 855 switches from headset to headphones with ease

Evan Blass — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 14:25:00 EST

Rarely does an accessory hit the market that really seems to fill a gap in the already overcrowded Bluetooth headset space, yet Plantronics may have managed to pull off just such a feat with its uber-low-profile, transforming Voyager 855 headset-cum-headphones. Besides the sliding boom, this model might look like a regular over the ear unit at first glance, but a detachable cord with an earbud at the end allows the 855 to perform double-duty as A2DP-compliant headphones -- great for those of us trying to downsize from the normally-bulky earpieces offered by iLuv, Bluetake, and friends. You're also getting the all-critical AVRCP profile here as well, so the only real downside seems to be the price: sounds like it'll be retailing for around $200 when it hits later this month, although we've already seen street prices ranging from $80 to $150.

Update: Plantronics let us know that pricing will be more in the $110 to $120 range, so bully for you if you can find that $80 deal.

Filed under: Accessories

Plantronics Voyager 855 switches from headset to headphones with ease originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Sep 2007 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics Voyager 855 switches from headset to headphones with ease

Evan Blass — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 14:25:00 EST

Filed under: Peripherals, Wireless

Plantronics Voyager 855 switches from headset to headphones with ease originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Sep 2007 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics' Calisto Pro makes telecommuting fun

Darren Murph — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 11:21:00 EST

Alright, so maybe "fun" is a stretch, but Plantronics' Calisto Pro sure makes working from the confines of home a lot more plausible. This interesting home phone not only enables users to manage their landline conversations, but the built-in Bluetooth and USB port allows telecommuters to receive and place calls over Skype and through their cellphone, too. "At the touch of a button," at-home workaholics can switch between all three types of calls, and the included earpiece even enables them to chat handsfree. The handset reportedly utilizes DECT 6.0 technology, won't interfere with your WiFi setup, touts an integrated speakerphone, and even comes bundled with a "flip-up waist clip for on-the-go dialing and Caller ID viewing." Cubical dwellers, rejoice, as you can get one step closer to nixing that commute entirely for $279.95 next month.

[Via Web Worker Daily]

Filed under: Misc. Gadgets

Plantronics' Calisto Pro makes telecommuting fun originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Aug 2007 11:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics unveils Pulsar 260 stereo headset

Brian White — Thu, 29 Mar 2007 17:00:00 EST

Plantronics unveiled its newest stereo Bluetooth headset this week at CTIA, the "Pulsar 260." This wearable wonder is of the around-the-neck type, and comes with the pendant plus earbuds for taking calls form that nearby Bluetooth handset as well as stream stereo sound from any nearby A2DP stereo Bluetooth source. The new Pulsar 260 iPod shuffle-like (first generation, at least) design has integrated volume and track skip buttons for that Bluetooth music player / phone with built-in control functions supplied by AVRCP to boot. Sweet. Look for it in stores now for about $110.

Filed under: Peripherals

Plantronics unveils Pulsar 260 stereo headset originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Mar 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics and Quicksilver team up for Bluetooth / iPod-enabled winter gear lineup

Darren Murph — Tue, 23 Jan 2007 13:53:00 EST

Seeing newly-unveiled outerwear touting iPod / Bluetooth connectivity is becoming a winter tradition it seems, as these blustery days bring about visions of new coats, helmets, lift tickets, and never letting go of your dear DAP / cellphone. This time around Quicksilver is seeking the technological know-how from Plantronics as it offers up a "limited edition" lineup of snow-ready gear that plays nice with your iPod and BT-equipped handset. The Double Daffy Snow Jacket sports Plantronics "stereo sound and voice technology" via Bluetooth, and should hit retail stores for $370 soon, while the presumably corresponding Pulse Helmet rocks a lightweight, ABS-infused design, side vents, and a black camo motif for $249.95. For the ladies in the house, the Teen Angel Snow Jacket caters to the female agenda for $340, and the partnering Shiver Helmet will run you $249.95. While no hard availability dates were mentioned, all the new kit will be on display at the SIA conference in Las Vegas through the end of the week, and we assume it'll hit your favorite ski shop shortly thereafter.

Filed under: Peripherals, Others, Misc

Plantronics and Quicksilver team up for Bluetooth / iPod-enabled winter gear lineup originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 23 Jan 2007 13:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics and Quicksilver team up for Bluetooth / iPod-enabled winter gear lineup

Darren Murph — Tue, 23 Jan 2007 13:53:00 EST

Filed under: Wearables, Wireless

Plantronics and Quicksilver team up for Bluetooth / iPod-enabled winter gear lineup originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 23 Jan 2007 13:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics' Discovery 665 headset with two-way DSP

Chris Ziegler — Tue, 09 Jan 2007 05:39:00 EST

Seems like every Bluetooth headset manufacturer is looking for a buzzword to describe their products' goodness in squashing ambient noise, but amazingly, Plantronics claims it's the very first to apply signal processing on both ends of the call in its Discovery 655-based "665." The DSP, called "AudioIQ," is said to reduce background noise by 7-8 decibels (roughly 50 percent) for folks on the far end of the call, while the wearer can expect improved "quality, clarity and volume level" as conditions vary. Look for the 9 gram headset to hit the streets next month for $150.

Filed under: Peripherals

Plantronics' Discovery 665 headset with two-way DSP originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 09 Jan 2007 05:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics intros Discovery 655 Bluetooth headset

Darren Murph — Sun, 30 Jul 2006 14:06:00 EST

Plantronics is feeling the ergonomic vibe as they introduced a new flagship Discovery headset at their Body and Form event in New York. The Discovery 655 is a form-focused Bluetooth headset with a distinctly different look than the 645 / 640 models. The design is intended to fit the "contours of your face" and shouldn't cause any ear fatigue weighing only 9 grams. Similar to other Discovery models, the 655 comes with a headset storage jacket -- which could be mistaken for an aluminum cigar case -- that performs double-duty as a charger (AAA powered), and a vibrating ringer to alert users of incoming calls. You also get a mini-USB adapter, which was notably absent on the Discovery 640, to charge from your PC or mobile phone's power supply. As in the 645, this unit includes DSP to block out unwanted noise (or certain managers' voices) and adjust the volume level based on your surroundings. Although there's really nothing groundbreaking about the 655 in terms of specifications, the change in style and lower price standout on an otherwise uninspiring offering -- you can give the Discovery 655 a listen when it drops in August for $150.

Filed under: Peripherals

Plantronics intros Discovery 655 Bluetooth headset originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 30 Jul 2006 14:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Palm's Ultralight Wireless Headset

Darren Murph — Wed, 12 Jul 2006 14:34:00 EST

Looks like the folks over at Palm aren't trying to fool anyone with their new Treo accessory; the Ultralight Wireless Headset is a faintly disguised Plantronics 645. The inclusion of DSP solidified the notion that this was indeed the Plantronics 645 underneath and not the 640; but clarity isn't the only thing going for it, other noteworthy aspects of the Ultralight are its sleek metal carrying case, the ability to charge it using your Treo's AC adapter, and even, um, a Palm-branded call/end button. Palm users can chat in comfort while sporting the new headset; it weighs just 9 grams, merely half of Palm's Compact Wireless Headset. Treo owners looking for a matching headset , look no further -- but at $129.99 direct from Palm, it'll cost ya.

Filed under: Peripherals, Palm

Palm's Ultralight Wireless Headset originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 12 Jul 2006 14:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronic's Voyager 510-USB Bluetooth headset: a first for enterprise VoIP softphones

Thomas Ricker — Wed, 17 May 2006 06:00:00 EST

Yeah, we know life can be unfair. At home you're setup with a cordless phone and wireless laptop allowing you to roam about in full untethered data communication glory. Then you return to work only to be tethered to the cube, and more specifically, the corporate phone. Well, Plantronics may have a solution if your local IT drones are VoIP enlightened. See, Plantronics just announced their new Voyager 510-USB which they claim is the first system to bring Bluetooth connectivity to enterprise class VoIP softphones (read: not that clunky VoIP handset on your desk). As the name indicates, the 510-USB slug-on-ear headset also features a USB little-buddy for slottin' up to your laptop. What's unique here is the PerSonoCall software which allows the kit to integrate with Avaya, Cisco, Nortel and yes, Skype among other softphone software, to offer call notification and remote call answering/ending via the headset whether you're scooting about the airport, office, or home on your lappie. The headset will switch "seamlessly" between your VoIP softphone and cellphone and should give you about 100 hours standby or 6 hours talktime within the usual 10-meter radius of your PC. Not bad, eh? Now get on the horn with IT and pester 'em for a softphone solution until those pansies cave.

Filed under: Cellphones, Peripherals, Portable Audio, Wireless

Plantronic's Voyager 510-USB Bluetooth headset: a first for enterprise VoIP softphones originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 17 May 2006 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plantronics' MX203S for musicphones and two other low-end headsets

Paul Miller — Wed, 19 Apr 2006 08:01:00 EST

Nothing much to see here, but Plantronics just announced their MX203S, MX200 and MX250 wired headsets, priced at $30, $20 and $25 respectively. The MX203S (pictured) supports musicphones, with stereo earbuds, and a button to switch from music to a phone call. There is also a WindSmart tech to cancel wind noises, but that's about all that's going on here. The MX200 is a single earpiece design, and the MX250 sports a boom, but that's about it. All three headsets should be available this month.

Filed under: Peripherals

Plantronics' MX203S for musicphones and two other low-end headsets originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Apr 2006 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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