Vinci 2.0 bring 3G connections and phone-free operation to workout headphones

We all have workout headphones, and generally, they’re either bulky or they don’t sound good. Lately, companies have been launching neckbuds, and Vinci is the latest on that list. You might not know the Vinci name, but I’ve had their previous headphones for about 2 years now. Originally, Vinci was an over-the-ear headphone system that had a built-in touchscreen and ran Android. Vinci 2.0, currently on Kickstarter, is the latest version of this and I am stoked to try it out.

Vinci was unique in several ways, but the biggest (I think) was the built-in cellular coverage. You “activated” Vinci like you would any other device like this, as a tablet or smartwatch. I took my tablet’s SIM from T-Mobile and inserted it into my first-generation Vinci and it worked like a charm. I could stream Spotify wherever I was without a phone attached, it was beautiful.

The original Vinci never really saw a wide public release due to tons of bugs and issues, but they’re finally ready. Now, with Vinci 2.0, the company has improved on its first take and is ready to bring it to the masses.

Vinci 2.0 features Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and 3G cellular connectivity options. Powered by a quad-core ARM processor, you can make calls, send texts, set a reminder, get directions, and more without your phone connected. This is perfect for those who love to go running but don’t want to invest in an LTE Apple Watch or bring their phone with them.

These unique headphones integrate directly with Spotify, SoundCloud, Amazon Music, and more so you will never run out of music when wearing them. Vinci 2.0 even ties into your phone so you can receive push notifications when away from home.

Vinci 2.0 is also linked directly to Amazon’s Alexa services, so you have over 15,000 skills available at your fingertips. The company is also planning support Google Assistant at a later time.

With a 600mAh battery, Vinci 2.0 is set to last 168 hours in standby and 20 hours of Bluetooth listening. There is even built-in noise cancelation in Vinci 2.0 Pro and Super models, which can be triggered by key phrases like “Hi Vinci, gym mode.”

Vinci 2.0 really shines in that it can work without being connected to your phone, as that’s what holds many back when they’re exercising. Starting at $89 right now on Kickstarter, Vinci is super affordable compared to other offerings on the market. Delivery is set to be in March of 2018 with 23 days left to back the project at the time of writing.