Hi backers,
Notwithstanding this unfortunate pandemic, we are ready to build out the pre-production prototypes.
The last prototypes were working really well with the connectivity but there were noticeable sub performances around them.
To prevent a potential bottleneck, we made an improved electronic circuit design that would fix all the identified issues.
Most importantly, the microphone failed to deliver clear audio. It was working but there were significant background noises. Sylvain fixed it in the revised circuit so you can expect decent audio quality during phone calls.
To name a few other fixes:
That took a while to do, including the back & forth with the manufacturer. During this time, we 3D printed a whole head using conductive filament. That way it would be easier to make the right components’ combination to provide the best possible connectivity.
As you saw in the animation provided 5-6 weeks ago, the top earbud shell has more height to it. We had to perform modifications on the charger so the earbuds could actually fit when the charger slides. Therefore, the mold for the charger will have to be partially redone.
Following up on our last update, we want to go forward with shipping a small number of units to selected backers. We hope a little bit of trust would be restored with that.
By no means these prototypes are the final product but it’s going to be fairly accurate. We are 3D printing them so it’s insanely longer and more expensive to do compared to a pre-production “semi-automated” run but we have to do it.
It’s not the same plastic so visually, they’ll retain the same form factor but the material and color will be significantly different.
If you are interested in getting a pair, click the following link: https://forms.gle/3CemfTFRNy1zMbrHA
About our supply chain, it’s now partially restored. So once we’re done with building and validating the pre-production units, we’ll start pre-production at a distance. It’s not ideal but that’s the best we can do with these actual rough conditions.
Stay safe guys.
Chris & Sylvain
PS: video update here: https://youtu.be/QFgDoZVSXBE