When Plantronics introduced its first lightweight headset more than 40 years ago — back in 1962 — little could they have imagined the uses its products would serve four decades later…Voice over IP (VoIP), cellular communications, video gaming, and more. In 1962, Pong was barely a notion and Atari was a decade from hitting the markets.
Plantronics now produces mobile headsets to address the cordless and mobile phone market, next-generation computer audio headset products for computer applications and corded and cordless headsets and systems for the office, small office/home office and contact centers.
But with the growing popularity of VoIP, and with Microsoft (News - Alert) and Sony looking to draw younger consumers into the IP telephony world by incorporating the technology into their latest video gaming systems, Plantronics has found yet another market for its headpieces — though they probably ought to be called earpieces based on their modern style.
Now the company has introduced three new headsets specifically designed of for Microsoft’s Xbox game system. The new line — GameCom X30, X20, and X10 models — feature trendy designs, single-ear design (the X10 is an over-the-head model), and crystal-clear audio. From fourth-quarter playoff drives to intense battle scenes, gamers using the Xbox Live online game service can now shift their sessions into overdrive.
“I've been looking for a single-ear headset for the Xbox 360 — something that would be comfortable for several hours of online play with friends and during competitions,” said Ashley Jenkins (Jinx) of the Frag Dolls, a group of girl gamers. “The moment I tried on the X30 I knew I'd found what I was looking for. It has a sexy design and is ideal for both comfort and quality.”
All three headsets feature noise-canceling microphoness to reduce background noise and ensure clarity on the other end — friend or foe. The headsets also feature inline volume and mute controls for easy access.
“Gamers have told us that they want discreet headsets that provide precise voice without overpowering the actual game audio,” said Renee Niemi, vice president of Mobile and Entertainment at Plantronics. “The new GameCom headsets deliver on this and, equally important, give gamers a choice when it comes to headset wearing styles, color schemes and price.”
If there is any doubt left that these units are not meant for (most) enterprise decision makers, Plantronics’ marketing vernacular makes abundantly clear that these are designed for gamers.
Industrial-strength hipness separates gaming titans from mere mortals
Noise-canceling mic lets you verbally devastate foes with cutting precision
Extended boom flexes to fit your trash-talking maw
Supple, ear-melding design thwarts the chaffing of all-night kill fests
Single-ear coverage lets you roast online enemies while rapping with your fridge-raiding buddies
Inline volume and mute put you in the driver's seat
The headsets retail for between $20 and $30. The X30 and X10 models will be available at Best Buy and Target stores and others, as well as online, this month. The X20 whould be available in July.
Erik Linask is Associate Editor of INTERNET TELEPHONY. Most recently, he was Managing Editor at Global Custodian, an international securities services publication. To see more of his articles, please visit Erik Linask’s columnist page.
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