Motorola Cuts to the Bone with Endeavor HX1 Bluetooth Headset

Motorola's new Endeavor HX1 Bluetooth headset features a "stealth mode" that relies on true bone conduction to block out even extreme noise.

Motorola is looking to ratchet up competition in the noise-canceling Bluetooth headset market, introducing the Endeavor HX1, which the company claims is the only Bluetooth headset on the market to use "true bone conduction technology" as part of a stealth mode that blocks out even extreme wind and noise.

"Motorola Endeavor HX1 adds a new level of audio superiority to our industry leading portfolio and is made for people who want the freedom to take hands-free calls despite extreme noise and wind environments," said Motorola corporate VP Wayne White, in a statement. "Whether you are driving in a convertible, attending a concert or standing on a busy street, Motorola Endeavor allows you to hear and be heard."

Motorola claims to be leveraging military-style technology for the Endeavor HX1: when the unit’s "stealth mode" is activated, the unit uses an ear sensor to block off outside noise and convert vocal vibrations directly into speech audio. The result—in theory anyway—is that listeners only hear the caller’s voice, not what’s going on around them. The Endeavor HX1 also includes Motorola’s CrystalTalk noise cancellation technology to deal with everyday noise when the unit’s stealth mode is overkill.

Motorola plans to market the HX1 in Asia beginning next month; no word yet on pricing, or when/if Motorola plans to bring the unit to North American markets.