Hip hop star 50 Cent’s company, SMS Audio is partnering with Intel to offer the new BioSport In-Ear Headphones with an integrated biometric sensor to measure your heart rate. The wired headphone/HR monitor is powered through a 3.5 mm gold-plated audio jack thereby circumventing batteries and bulk, and the Stay-Fit Wing design should help prevent it ending up in your spokes. The BioSport promises sound quality on par with the SMS STREET by 50 In-Ear Wired Sport Headphone, and has an inline microphone for call integration. We presume there will be sound/music/app control buttons similar to the MFI controller on the STREET, but details are not available.
The product’s suitability for cycling and multisport training is not too clear. Currently, the unit is only compatible with the Runkeeper fitness app, but SMS claims additional app integration is in the works. Also, while the headphones are IPX4 rated for resistance to “a splash of water from any direction for five minutes,” they are not rated to withstand a swim workout. Furthermore, it is illegal for cyclists to wear headphones in Florida and Rhode Island; California, Delaware and Maryland require that one ear remain uncovered while riding. However, should Strava, MapMyRide, et al become integrated, and if you are someone who prefers to minimize the number of devices and hates wearing a chest strap, the BioSport will deserve serious consideration…
The SMS Audio BioSport In-Ear Headphones powered by Intel will be available in blue, grey, pink, and yellow. The earphones are slated to go on sale at SMSAudio.com in the fourth quarter. Pricing has not been announced, but the STREET currently retails for $79.95, so expect something north of there.
