The first release from US-based tech start-up Wearhaus, Arc wireless headphones can sync with other pairs, allowing people to share music with each other for social listening while still maintaining personal privacy. The headphones can sync via Bluetooth with up to 30 other pairs within a 30-metre radius.

The headphones work in tandem with an accompanying app that allows users to see what others are listening to around them, so they can join their music, or alternatively broadcast their own choices for others to share. Users can also chat through the app with fellow listeners. 

Launched through a crowdfunding platform, the headphones are initially available in a black or white polycarbonate finish. A ring of light on the earpiece can be altered to a range of colours in the app, including an option to sync with the tempo of the music. An intuitive touch panel on the side of the headphones allows for simple control away from a device screen. 

As the way we listen to music evolves with the emergence of cloud-based services, designers are responding with innovative audio technology to cater to this new sound landscape – see Power of Sound for more examples. Also see Evolution of Music, which focuses on changing listening behaviour, and how brands can capitalise on it.