DropLabs’ audio-enabled footwear features support for all Bluetooth 4.2 compatible devices.
This month marked the launch of DropLabs’ EP 01 Triple Black, an updated version of the companies previously-released EP 01 haptic sneaker. Featuring a sleek all-black exterior, the new Triple Black Edition includes several improvements to the original design, allowing for an enhanced haptic feedback experience delivered directly to your feet.
Available now for $299 via the DropLabs website, the new-and-improved EP 01 sneakers can connect to any Class 1 Bluetooth 4.2 compatible device, including most wireless headphones, gaming consoles, and—of course—VR headsets. Whereas existing haptic technology focuses primarily on the hands and chest, patented DropLabs technology located in the midsole of the shoes delivers bass-activated stereo audio directly to your feet. For devices lacking Bluetooth support, each pair comes with a low latency cable compatible with most standard 3.5mm headphone jacks. There’s also mic support.
“The embedded software platform allows us to continue to refine the experience and provide more unique customization at the individual level,” said DropLabs CEO Susan Paley in an official release. “We’ve developed a proprietary technology that we have integrated into the midsole of the sneaker that converts audio signals into vibrations.”
“When these vibrations are delivered through your feet and synchronized with what you hear in your ears, it is a completely transformative experience for digital entertainment. Although initially envisioned to recreate the energy of live music, adding this immersion layer to gaming, movies and VR is next level.”
Here are the full specs as provided by DropLabs:
- Compatible with all Bluetooth headphones using – Class 1 Bluetooth® 4.2
- Compatible with iPhone (iOS 11 and later) and Android phones (Android 6 and later)
- Up to 6 hours of battery life
- Optional Low-Latency cable for gaming and music recording applications
- Safe-detach Magnetic Charge Connectors
- Water Resistant
- One-Year Limited Warranty
In addition to the afforementioned updates, the EP 01 Trible Black features dynamic tuning settings—allowing users to optimize their experience for gaming, music, and movies—as well as an in-app LED wheel capable of changing the the color of the lights built into the base of the shoes.
“The philosophy behind DropLabs is connecting people to the things that they care deeply about and amplifying those experiences through the power of sound,” added Paley. ” We believe that people should amplify the power of their individual voices through voting and we’re honored to partner with an organization like When We All Vote whose mission is to make voting accessible and inclusive for all.”
No doubt these haptic kicks would pair nicely with a wide range of existing VR games and experiences. I’d be particularly interested to see how the EP 01 perform when paired with Beat Saber, Supernatural, or one of the many other VR rhythm games out in the wild.
Image Credit: DropLabs, PRNewsfoto
