Callpod, the makers of cellphone accessories like the Chargepod have announced their own long-range Bluetooth 2.0 headsets:

The Onyx and Vetro Bluetooth® headsets both offer a 164 ft (50m) range, which allows users to extend the boundaries of traditional headsets. It allows users to roam around the office or home without being tethered to their cell phone. The Onyx and Vetro can also simultaneously connect to your PC or Mac for Skype® calls, allowing you to switch between your computer and mobile phone with a press of a button. In addition, the headsets have advanced dual-mic noise suppression™, which allows callers on the other end of the call to enjoy a strong clear voice even if the user is in the car, airport, restaurant or at the office.

The Onyx and Vetro can be used with other Vetro, Onyx or Dragon V2 headsets for two-way or push to talk communication over a 84,000+ sq ft space. The new headset takes about 3 hours to fully charge via USB port or outlet and provides up to 5 hours talk time and over 120 hours on standby.

Armed with good looks and extended range as well as noise-suppression, the Onyx and Vetro are also priced aggressively too. The Onyx is currently available for $69.95 and the Vetro is currently available for $99.95. Both are compatible with all Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones, PDAs VoIP products and computers.

[ Links: Callpod ]

Just last week, I was so deep in the woods that screaming for the whereabouts of my traveling companions would have probably gotten the attention of some animals that I’d rather avoid – read: bears. Cardo Systems have announced a rather unique solution to two-way communication, and oddly enough music sharing, between multiple sets of bluetooth enabled headsets if you’re on a motorcycle, snowmobile or ATV:

The Q2 MultiSet was created with the safety, convenience and enjoyment of riders in mind. The headsets come pre-paired so that riders can instantly begin communicating with each other. For added entertainment, an MP3 jack is included in both headsets which allow each rider to connect their personal MP3 player to the unit so they can each enjoy their own music. Incoming intercom messages and mobile phone calls automatically override the MP3 music so hands never have to leave the handlebars. An extra large, wind-resistant 195 mm microphone has also been included to greatly enhance sound quality.

“With the SCALA RIDER® Q2™ MultiSet we continue to empower riders with the best communication technology available, without compromising safety. To offer a smooth out-of-the-box experience the two headsets come factory paired, so that users can instantly start enjoying the product. As the fifth addition to our SCALA RIDER® line of products, we keep pushing the envelope for our customers by offering optimal solutions for every need”, said Abraham Glezerman, CEO of Cardo Systems, Inc.

Although I love my friends, I don’t exactly trust their choices in music. But Cardo does provide a cool way to communicate and share music between headsets and facilitate instant communication between users. The SCALA Rider Q2 MultiSet is available through select distributors, retail outlets, specialty shops, and directly from the Cardo Systems website with a suggested retail price of $395.95

[ Links: Cardo Systems, Scala Rider Q2 MultiSet ]

Months after announcing that it was “coming”, Motorola finally has unleashed the Motorola Endeavor HX1 [ site here ] for sale in the US and perhaps the Aliph Jawbone Prime [ site here ] first true competition.

With features like true bone conduction via an in-ear sensor and CrystalTalk™ Noise Reduction to make your calls all nice and clear, the Motorola Endeavor HX1 almost makes it worthwhile to stick that huge earpiece in your ear. You’ll still look like a half-Borg and invariably confuse people that are on the other side of your face that won’t see the earpiece and assume you’re talking to them; but the fact that you can use both hands while in traffic or in Starbucks makes it all worth it. Right?

• Talk Time: Up to 7 hours
• Standby Time: Up to 10 days
• Bone Conduction
• CrystalTalk™ Technology
• 2-Microphones
• Voice Prompts
• Dimensions: (L) 47mm x (W) 18mm x (H) 12mm
• Weight: 13 grams

Currently on sale for $129 initially as a Sprint exclusive, however you can surely pair it with any phone that supports Bluetooth 2.0 and higher.
[ Motorola Endeavor HX1 ] [ Sprint: Motorola HX1 Purchase ]