Bose Tempo Sunglasses: A Fusion of Audio and Style

Bose, a brand renowned for its high-quality audio products, has taken an innovative step with its Tempo Sunglasses. Combining cutting-edge sound technology with fashionable eyewear, these sunglasses are more than just a style statement. They offer a unique way to listen to music without the need for traditional headphones.

Design and Build

The Bose Tempo Sunglasses are designed with sports enthusiasts in mind. They feature a sporty wrap-around design, perfect for outdoor activities. Made from TR-90 nylon, they promise durability and flexibility. The lenses are polycarbonate, offering impact and scratch resistance, crucial for dynamic environments. The frames fit securely, ensuring they stay in place during physical activities.

Audio Technology

At the heart of the Tempo Sunglasses is Bose’s Open Ear Audio technology. This design directs sound precisely to the wearer without blocking background noise, ensuring safety during outdoor activities. The sunglasses house tiny speakers embedded within the temples. These speakers deliver clear, full-range sound that enhances the experience, whether you’re biking, running, or walking.

Performance

The speakers in the Bose Tempo Sunglasses produce surprisingly rich audio. The sound quality rivals many in-ear headphones, despite being an open-ear design. Bass, treble, and mid-range frequencies are well-balanced. They can crank up sound to adequate levels even in windy environments. However, they do leak sound, which is something to consider in quiet settings.

Battery Life and Connectivity

A full charge gives up to 8 hours of continuous playback. This longevity is sufficient for long workouts or day trips. The sunglasses use a custom charging cable, including a USB-C port for added convenience. Bluetooth connectivity is robust and allows seamless pairing with smartphones. Multipoint technology enables connecting to two devices simultaneously, making it easier to switch between them.

Interactivity and Controls

Touch controls on the temple enhance the user experience. A swipe or tap can adjust the volume, change tracks, or control calls. The controls are intuitive and responsive, reducing the need to access your device. Built-in microphones enable phone calls with decent clarity, though the performance can vary in windy or noisy environments.

Lens Options and UV Protection

Bose offers interchangeable lenses to adapt to various lighting conditions. The standard lenses block up to 99% of UVA/UVB rays, providing essential protection from the sun. Options for mirrored, polarized, and low-light lenses are available, catering to different preferences and activities.

Applications and Use Cases

The Bose Tempo Sunglasses excel in outdoor sports like running and cycling. They eliminate the need for additional earphones, streamlining your gear. Audio directions from GPS apps can play directly from the sunglasses, keeping you aware of your surroundings. The open-ear design allows for social interactions and audible awareness of traffic or other outdoor hazards. This feature is particularly beneficial for urban environments.

Limitations

While innovative, the Bose Tempo Sunglasses aren’t without limitations. Sound leakage is noticeable in quiet environments. Privacy can be compromised when conversations or music are public. The sunglasses might not be the best choice for audiophiles seeking complete sound immersion. They are also weather-resistant but not fully waterproof, potentially limiting use in extreme conditions.

Comparison with Other Models

Bose’s lineup includes other smart glasses models like the Alto and Rondo. The Tempo stands out with its sportier design and improved audio performance. Other models might offer different aesthetic and fit options but lack the same sound power and battery life of the Tempo Sunglasses. Comparing these choices helps users find what best suits their needs.

Pricing and Availability

The pricing of Bose Tempo Sunglasses positions them in the premium market segment. While they offer advanced technology, the cost might be prohibitive for some. They are available directly from Bose and major electronics retailers. Occasionally, discounts and deals can lower the price. Accessory lenses and replacement parts are also sold separately, extending product longevity.

Customer Feedback

User reviews highlight the innovative design and practicality of the Bose Tempo Sunglasses. Positive feedback often focuses on the sound quality and comfort during extended wear. Critiques typically mention sound leakage and the unique charging cable. Despite these minor drawbacks, many users appreciate the new listening experience offered by Bose.