Skip to main content

The AIUR speaker lets you turn up the volume with just a wave of your hand

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Controlling your speakers could be as easy as waving your hands — if your speakers are from AIUR, that is. This new Kickstarter project promises a high-fidelity speaker capable of recognizing up to 10 different hand gestures, which should make controlling the soundtrack to your life easier than ever.

“As music lovers, we are always looking for ways to make our listening experience better,” the AIUR team noted on its Kickstarter page. And for these folks, “better” relates to gesture control. Rather than relying upon a remote or physical controls on the speaker itself, the AIUR will allow you to adjust volume, change songs, pair to new devices, and more — all with a simple hand motion.

Recommended Videos

So how, exactly, does the speaker work? The AIUR emits a specialized infrared light, and when you wave your hand, a 15mm sensor module paired with a number of “complex pattern-recognition algorithms” are able to restructure a 3D model of your hand. The algorithms then analyze these different gestures, and the sensor module turns this data into commands for the speaker.

“We wanted great sound combined with convenience and total music control, and were frustrated with the shortcomings of other gesture-control devices on the market,” the team noted in a release. “For AIUR, we applied the most advanced pattern-recognition techniques and sensor available to create a speaker that would function so smoothly that it feels like magic.”

Of course, gesture control means nothing without great sound quality, and the AIUR team worked to ensure that your favorite songs and podcasts will be well broadcast. The speaker uses DSP technology and 3D surround sound to deliver top-notch bass performance through its two stereo speakers. The system also includes both a desktop tripod and a floor stand so you can position your speaker appropriately.

The AIUR connects to mobile devices using Bluetooth 4.2, and its rechargeable 6000mAh on-board battery promises to support more than 12 hours of streaming content. And because the exterior of the speaker is water resistant, you can enjoy your favorite music while outdoors or in your bathroom without worrying about ruining the AIUR.

With two weeks left in its campaign, the AIUR has already exceeded its initial fundraising goal. Of course, you should always exercise caution before backing a crowdfunding project, but if you’re interested in the AIUR, the team is offering early bird pricing of $79, with delivery set for July.

Lulu Chang
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Fascinated by the effects of technology on human interaction, Lulu believes that if her parents can use your new app…
Apple Fitness+ now lets you work out with your friends
Apple Fitness Plus on Apple One.

During the Apple California Streaming event, Apple Fitness+ has introduced Group Workouts on iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV. You will still see your own metrics on display on the screen, but you will also be able to see an indicator of how well your friends are doing in their workouts. It's a fun way to bring a competitive element to working out and to keep yourself and your friends motivated.

Apple has also expanded its Apple Fitness+ program to include even more countries. While it's currently available in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Ireland, and New Zealand, Apple is adding support for 15 more countries including Italy, Austria, and Brazil. New subscribers to the service will receive one month for free, or three months free with the purchase of an Apple Watch. Afterward, the service is $10 per month or $80 per year in the U.S.

Read more
Ikea’s $199 Symfonisk Picture Frame Speaker lets you hang your tunes on a wall
Ikea Sonos Symfonisk Picture Frame Speaker

Ikea's third collaborative project with Sonos under the Symfonisk brand is the $199 Symfonisk Picture Frame Speaker, a 22 by 16-inch rectangular Wi-Fi speaker that can be hung in portrait or landscape orientation on a wall, or sat freestanding on a flat surface. It goes on sale at Ikea-usa.com and in stores on July 15. At that time, buyers will be able to choose between black or white frame colors, and a dark grey or light grey geometric print as the speaker grille/artwork. Two additional print options will be available at launch for $20 each.

In typical Sonos fashion, there has been no discussion of the Picture Frame Speaker's power in terms of watts. Instead, the company describes it as "room-filling" -- a term it uses for many of its speakers. Sonos put a focus on the architecture of the speaker, specifically the design of the tweeter. It uses a special diffuser to help high-frequency sounds spread out around a room.

Read more
Sony wants you to play your summer soundtrack on its new wireless speakers
Sony xg500 wireless speaker

Every summer has a soundtrack, and Sony wants you to listen to yours on its newest series of portable Bluetooth speakers. The product line is available now and can help kick off a more active, less quarantined season. Here's our rundown of the offerings:
XB13 Extra Bass

The smallest and most portable of the bunch, the XB13 Extra Bass comes with an IP67 waterproof and dustproof designation -- that's enough protection for serious showers or splashes and sand, but don't let it go for a swim. The speaker is available in several vibrant colors befitting the summer season and, as its name would suggest, hangs its hat on its ability to handle bass-heavy tracks and produce a "deep, punchy sound."

Read more