Audio and mobile device accessory manufacturer iFrogz has freed users from the need for large external speakers or headsets to augment their devices’ output with its new Boost amplifying speaker.
Compatible with most mobile devices featuring an external speaker, the Boost uses Near Field technology (the first device to do so for audio) to transmit sound from the device to its own speakers, one mounted on each side. The device requires no installation or wires for play, but includes a 3.5mm Audio port. It is supported by most iOS devices and Android phones.
The Boost is powered by three AA Alkaline batteries or a Micro USB DC in line, and has a battery life of 15 hours of play time on average volume. It automatically shuts off after ten minutes when not in use, and can remain in sleep mode for up to six months.
The Boost’s arrival in domestic US and international markets is projected within the next few weeks.
Also showcased by iFrogz were several new additions to its EarPollution earbud line, including the Equinox, a high-tech earbud with an in-line microphone, the Plugz featuring coil-free cords, and the CS40 Chromatome.
For more information and looks at iFrogz’s lineup, try their website.
Trauben’s Impressions
The Boost is a downright neat little piece of technology. It’s incredibly versatile given its size and simplicity, and all sorts of possibilities present themselves about potential uses. It’s about the size of three smartphones in cases stacked atop one another, so it’s pretty easy to carry, and the sound is surprisingly good. This use of Near Field technology definitely gets my approval, and I’ve already been dreaming up a crackpot scheme involving a guitar.
Kudos to iFrogz for a lean and imaginative peripheral that sets itself apart with real innovation.
McGinley’s Impressions
The Boost is sleek, simple, adaptable, and very approachable from the unofficial price information we overheard. With only a small amount of experimentation we got both Trauben’s iPhone and my Samsung Galaxy S to synch up to the device perfectly. In regard to that guitar, the virtual one I downloaded worked pretty sweet with this. Mobile jam session anyone?
I have been seeing the smaller booths and developers really out shining the large, TV heavy field at CES this year. iFrogz has come a long way from where I last saw their offering and I will be even more excited to see where they are two years from now.