Griffin MyPhones Look to Protect Kids’ Hearing

Griffin's new over-the-ear MyPhones are designed to prevent kids from blowing out their hearing by capping output at 85db.

Peripheral and accessory maker Griffin Technology is looking to score some points with parents this holiday season with its forthcoming MyPhones, a new pair of over-the-ear headphones designed for kids ages 3 to 12 with a special feature: a built-in limiter circuit caps the volume of the headphones at 85 decibels, the level that safety agencies and audiologists recommend as the highest safe sustained noise level for children.

“Children are as interested in technology as adults these days,” said Griffin CEO Paul Griffin, in a statement. “MyPhones are the first headphones that kids can really call their own. And with MyPhones’ 85 decibel volume limit, parents can rest easy, knowing that their kids’ hearing is not being compromised.”

The over-the-ear headphones don’t have any in-ear component—which is generally a good idea when kids are at that phase where they’re likely to stick things deep in their ears—and feature soft ear cushions and an adjustable band. The headphones can be popped into anything with an 1/8th-inch headphone jack (and into almost anything else with adapters), and kids can customize their MyPhones using interchangeable design inserts: the MyPhones come with three designs, and of course kids can make their own. Templates are available on myphonekids.com, and kids can upload and share their own designs if they like (with parents’ permission).

MyPhones will be available in October for a suggested retail price of $39.99.