Review: Anker Soundcore Frames merge sound, sunglasses and style
Remember Google Glass? This, let’s say unique, introduction to smart eyewear was supposed to change the tech world as we knew it. And when it was finally made available to the masses in 2014, it certainly made headlines … but not in the way Google had hoped.
Privacy concerns and plenty of jokes kept Google Glass from going mainstream and potentially slowed the acceptance of this kind of smart wearable. Yet, companies have continued developing smart glasses, including Snap, Amazon and Facebook.
While many come equipped with augmented reality tech, cameras and other potentially invasive features, other smart glasses from Bose and Razer are just made for convenience, like listening to music. Now there’s another option from Anker Soundcore, and these are built in a way that doesn’t limit your choice of styles — but are they worth the price?
Anker Soundcore Frames
The Soundcore Frames are audio glasses designed for immersive sound, just released in November. Below are the notable specs, but stick around because I’m saving the best part for last.
- OpenSurround: Open ear audio so you’re not blocking out other sounds around you
- 4 speakers with a custom audio processor
- Dual microphones to eliminate background noise in voice calls
- Operate with touch controls or voice commands
- Adjust EQ, other settings through companion app
- 5.5 hours of playtime on a single charge
- Polarized lenses
- Retails for $199.99
The standout feature for these glasses is the quick-release hinges so you can mix and match different styles of detachable frames. That means you don’t have to buy a whole new pair of smart glasses anytime you want a different look.
After you purchase the $199.99 kit that includes the audio temples and frames of your choice, you can later buy additional frame styles for $49.99. There are currently 10 frame styles to choose from, many of which are pictured below.
Bridging the gap
Anker sent me a kit of Soundcore Frames to review along with a number of styles. The frames I received included Festival, Harbor, Landmark (in three different colors), Marina, Promenade, Tour and Wander. That’s a total of nine frames, with the exception of one called Cafe.
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