Sony’s Xperia Ear is a Bluetooth headset that takes things a bit further. Packed with all sorts of smart features and a compelling set of specs, the headset is not only one of the best Bluetooth earpieces on the market, but is able to give the wearer data including event scheduling, the weather, and even custom reminders. According to official word from Sony, the Xperia Ear is supposed to start hitting retail outlets around the globe as of this week and today’s announcement marks the beginning of that process. Sony has put out an official announcement that the headset is coming to America, and will be available with a suggested retail price of $199.99 from a smattering of retailers on December 13.
The initial list of retailers on release day for the US will include Amazon and will shortly be followed by Fry’s, ABT, and B&H Photo & Video. According to Sony, “other retailers” will be joining that list as time goes on. With the usual suspects like Best Buy, Newegg, and Tiger Direct were not directly named, Sony fans who want to nab one in time for the holidays might want to ensure they do make the purchase through Amazon or one of the three retailers listed, while those willing to wait a while will likely start to see them pop up in more places, giving them a chance for some hands-on time before committing to a purchase.
As a quick reminder for potential buyers, the Sony Xperia Ear features Bluetooth 4.1, NFC, IPX2 water protection, and a weight of only 6.6 grams. The device can accept head gestures thanks to an array of sensors, or use normal voice commands. This means that owners can discreetly respond to notifications and get things done without taking out their phone. On the smart feature spectrum, it can read you reminders and notifications, can give you a general update or heads-up once in a while, and can automatically detect when it is put into an ear or removed from one. The Xperia Ear comes with a carry case that doubles as the charger. For now, it is only available in graphite black.
