The “world’s first” Bluetooth solar earbuds launch on Indiegogo with a familiar design

If 2016 was the year of Bluetooth headphones, then 2017 is shaping up to be a battle over renewable energy. These two topics collide on the Sola Wireless Headphones that claim to be “the world’s first” solar charging Bluetooth earbuds. Having just launched on Indiegogo, these headphones are taking an aggressive approach to leveraging the power of the sun while enjoying music on-the-go. Its design is reminiscent of LG’s Tone Pro headphones with the addition of small solar panels on the neckband. So what if there isn’t any sun? Sola also accepts a microUSB charger, too.

Like any (affordable) solar product, the quality and conversion rate of the sun can be hit or miss. Sola promises around eight hours of use on a full charge of the 200mA battery. You’ll need a direct line of sight to charge the headphones while in use, which may be an issue for users with long hair or if you’re wearing a hoodie. Aside from Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity, additional features include a built-in mic, 20Hz-20kHz frequency response and “noise dampening” technology. Early bird pricing of $29 will deliver a pair in July if the $30,000 goal is reached.

Source: Indiegogo