Perfect for listening in on conversations<\/b>
It\u2019s not all phones for Sony at this year\u2019s Mobile World Congress \u2013 the company is also showing off some new virtual assistant-equipped audio technology.
At the moment the device has the supremely un-catchy name Xperia Ear Open-style Concept.
This isn\u2019t just Sony being Sony when it comes to naming, though \u2013 it\u2019s because the product is still in its early prototype stages and it wouldn\u2019t do to get too attached.
Sony showed off an Xperia Ear device at last year\u2019s MWC , but this new version goes in both ears and, more significantly, uses Sony-developed open ear audio technology. This tech essentially makes it possible for the Experia earbuds to let in noise from your surroundings while you\u2019re wearing them.
This doesn\u2019t sound ideal \u2013 if you wanted to hear people talking over your favorite song you\u2019d just play it from a speaker.
However, it could be useful for those who listen to music while cycling or running outdoors as it\u2019ll keep you aware of your surroundings. It\u2019ll also be useful for listening in on those conversations that take place when people think you\u2019re listening to music.
The earbuds will also be equipped with Sony\u2019s answer to Amazon\u2019s Alexa, Agent, which can follow voice cues and sense head gestures.
Not much has been revealed about the tech working inside to make all of this happen but we\u2019ll be getting hands on with the earbuds soon from the MWC show floor. Keep your ears close to the ground for more news as it comes.<\/p>\n