Audiovox Unveils Bluetooth Headset With MEMS Display

By John Laposky -- TWICE, 11/5/2007

SAN DIEGO — Audiovox Accessories has introduced an Acoustic Research-branded Bluetooth headset with a MEMS display, developed by Qualcomm, to allow users to view incoming information such as caller ID, song titles, battery level and volume control in all viewing environments, including bright sunlight.

Audiovox claims the Acoustic Research ARWH1 is the industry's first headset to offer a direct-view MEMS display. MEMS, based on interferometric modulation (IMOD) technology from Qualcomm, is a reflective display that requires no backlighting, reflecting light so that specific wavelengths interfere with each other to create pure, vivid colors, according to Qualcomm. The phenomenon that makes a butterfly's wings shimmer is the same process that gives IMOD displays their color. Because backlighting is unnecessary, IMOD displays offer a significant reduction in power consumption compared with other display technologies, extending device battery life and enabling new features.

The device, designed jointly by Audiovox and Ubixon, includes a 3.5mm audio jack for use with any standard earphones, an attachable/detachable clip and a five-way control button. In addition, the new headset includes the XEN 3D Sound solution, offering five distinctive sound effects, echo cancellation and noise suppression.

"This product has a distinct difference that will resonate with consumers who have to have the most innovative and highest quality wireless devices on the market," said Lou Lenzi, product management senior VP, Audiovox Accessories. "We're excited to launch this industry-first product under the Acoustic Research brand."

Jim Cathey, business development VP, Qualcomm MEMS Technologies, added, "We are excited to work with Audiovox Accessories to bring Qualcomm's MEMS displays directly to consumers. Customers will immediately appreciate Ubixon's user-friendly design and Qualcomm's highly visible, low-power MEMS display."

The ARWH1 headset will be available in retail locations in November at a suggested retail of $99.99.