KUNG-FU FIGHTING

We often come across gadgets that are so geeky it's just cool and some that are sexy but not necessarily useful and often expensive. On the rare occasion we see something that's equally hi-tech, Dead Sexy and affordable.

From Hybra Advance Technology comes the ORB Wireless Earpiece Finger Ring aka the ORB. The ORB* is essentially a Bluetooth headset that transforms, literally, with a twist from a finger ring to a fully functioning BT headset.


How does it work?
The ORB uses piezo-electric Distributed Mode Actuator technology from NXT*. Huh? Simply put it harnesses NXT's bone conducting audio technology which delivers high-quality sound without having to place the device in-ear. The ORB is placed over the upper ear between the ear and side of head. The receiver end of the headset rests just above the jawbone.


Features:
-Class 2 Bluetooth (~30-ft/10-m range) in multiple ring sizes from S (4-6), M (7-9), L(10-12) to XL (13-16) for men and women.
-All sizes have an expansion hinge, spring prongs and adjustable adhesive soft pads on the interior edge to ensure a custom fit.
-Vibration alerts of incoming calls and messages.
-The base model features an E Ink display (only black & white) that shows caller ID, text messages and calendar reminders.
The deluxe edition features a FOLED (Flexible Organic Light Emitting Diode) screen for full-color display. Nice!
-Waterproof.
-Home charging base that also acts as storage and amplified speaker for alarms and reminders.


Availability?
Base model O.R.B. is scheduled to launch in January 2010, MSRP $129 USD.
Deluxe edition is due in April 2010, MSRP $175 USD.
The Limited edition designer models are also due in April 2010 with their price based on the value of the gemstones incorporated into the device. Swarovski or real bling?
Unfortunately there's no news on where you can buy it so stay tuned.

Yes the ORB does sound like something out of Star Trek or TekWar TV series (yes I'm showing my Geek!) but don't worry it's not going to make you look like a sci-fi convention fan boy/girl. It's much too subtle and stylish. Think of it as Star Trek meets Sex and the City.

We wanted to checkout the ORB in person at CES 2010 but the working unit was off at a meeting with distributors. We can't wait to do a full review on the ORB. Until then checkout our review of current BT headsets on the market here.


For more info see www.hybratech.com.

The ORB received the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2010 Best of Innovation winner in the Wireless Handsets Accessories category.

*ORB is an abbreviation of orbital ring Bluetooth
*NXT is best known for its flat panel loudspeaker technology found in many consumer electronics from Acer to Sony Ericsson.

Photos courtesy of absolutelynew.com.