Logitech Adds AFH Technology To Bluetooth Headset

By Staff -- TWICE, 6/7/2004

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Fremont, Calif. — Acting as a leader in working toward the next generation of Bluetooth, Logitech has added Adaptive Frequency Hopping (AFH) to its mobile Bluetooth headsets.

AFH is a new technology now available for Bluetooth devices, which will be incorporated into Bluetooth 1.2. As for headsets, it will allow Logitech units to select open frequency bands when transmitting data within congested 2.4GHz areas, such as Wi-Fi hot spots.

AFH takes advantage of available frequencies without limiting the Bluetooth transmission to a set of frequencies occupied by other wireless standards. This ensures continuous, clear connections for Bluetooth headset users. The Logitech Mobile Bluetooth Headset containing AFH technology was scheduled for April availability in the United States.

AFH is designed to enable all devices that operate within the 2.4GHz band to work together simultaneously without reducing data transmission quality. This will eliminate the pips and pops on Logitech headsets, sometimes heard in congested 2.4GHz areas.

The Logitech Mobile Bluetooth Headset, at $99.95 suggested retail, allows cordless calls up to 30 feet away from a mobile phone. It offers eight hours of continuous talk time and more than three weeks of standby time.

The unit includes a noise-canceling microphone and a flexible soft-touch wraparound design, so the headset fits comfortably on either ear. It comes with a portable charging station that also functions as a protective case.

Speaker, Mike Placement A 'First': Koss Bi-Audio

Milwaukee— A hands-free mobile headset called the Bodyset, made by Bi-Audio, is said to be the first hands-free communication product that places the speaker and microphone on the user's shoulder.

By the combination of design and comfort, users will be able to move freely and perform multiple tasks without the constriction of a traditional headset, said the company. The Bodyset offers listeners flexible movement and the ability to stay connected without continuously removing and replacing the headset, which is ideal for the small office environment.

The Bodyset features a 28mm speaker in close proximity to the ear for clear and consistent communication. A push-to-talk switch is conveniently located in front of the speaker for ease of use. A traditional headband is eliminated, and the wearable communication device utilizes a padded, adjustable neckband that rotates to be worn on either side of the head.

Other features include volume control on the neckband, configuration with any cord or plug, and a flexible boom microphone that optimizes pick-up pattern and minimal ambient noise interference.

Suggested retail is expected to be between $40 and $50, and the unit is scheduled for August availability. Bi-Audio is a division of headphone maker Koss.