Arrivas arrive: First look at "wireless" iPod Shuffle headphones

Arriva's upcoming headphones have a built-in 2G Shuffle dock.

(Credit: CNET Networks)

A couple of months ago, I posted a Photoshop mockup of a new pair of "wireless" headphones for the second-generation iPod Shuffle that Arriva, a startup based in Colorado, was working on. The irony was that the headphones weren't wireless in the traditional sense (Bluetooth, IR, or RF), but they simply had a tiny Shuffle II integrated into the headphones at the back of your neck. It's a concept that Monster has also seized upon with its iFreePlay headphones, which houses a Shuffle dock in the left earpiece.

A second, shorter model is designed for smaller heads.

(Credit: CNET Networks)

The new headphones aren't out yet, but Arriva did send us a couple of working prototypes, one of which is designed for smaller heads. With some fiddling around, you can get the whole contraption to fit pretty snugly, though the Shuffle isn't so light that you completely forget that it's tacked on to the back of your noggin. The headphones don't sound stellar, either, but Ben Blouse, Arriva's CEO, says neither the cosmetics nor the speakers are final and will continue to be tweaked. They can make the headphones in any color and will be offering high-end earbuds very soon, as well as a waterproof model that keeps your Shuffle dry.

Blouse says he should know pricing early next week and that the headphones should begin shipping in 5 to 6 weeks. He adds, "Our utility patent pending looks very good."

[mabedan]

cool stuff

why ALL the female models should look badly serious in photos???? (the second
photo) :D

[britley]

Changes coming from Arriva

We at Arriva are making the changes to the headphones which will be 30% smaller with much better speakers. When worn under the hair you can barely notice the Shuffle but it doesn't show the headphones very well.