Now Available: Bone Conduction Headphones by AfterShokz at Office Depot

Oct. 1, 2013 - PRLog -- East Syracuse, NY ─ AfterShokz, the brand that has evolved the sport and Bluetooth headphones category with the introduction of unique open ear headphones powered by patent pending bone conduction technology, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with a leading global office supply retailer, Office Depot. All three models of AfterShokz bone conduction headphones—Sportz 2, Sportz M2 and Bluez—have been added to the recently redesigned audio accessories display within each of the 1,100 domestic retail locations, as well as through their website.

Rolling out over the next few months, AfterShokz will be made available for in-store demo, as Office Depot will incorporate it as part of the headphone listening stations, which will allow customers a chance to appreciate the unparalleled value of the open ear experience firsthand.

Office Depot’s fresh mission of “connecting what is cool” has the retailer focused on bringing consumers a vast assortment of technology that reflects continued innovation and category-leading product introductions. They’re collaborating with brand partners via standout marketing initiatives to do so, and in the case of AfterShokz, the tactical focus on increased public safety and situational awareness will be a central element in the brand’s differentiation.

“Headphones have played an increased role in accidents for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers, due to environmental isolation (sensory deprivation)—but the unique AfterShokz design offers a solution, with a feature set that makes them the safest and most comfortable way to tune in to music or a phone call without tuning out surroundings,” said Bruce Borenstein, president and CEO of AfterShokz. “So AfterShokz open ear headphones (http://www.aftershokz.com/AfterShokz-Sportz-M2-Open-Ear-H...) are more than just a cool new technology—they’re a solution to headphone-related sensory deprivation.”

“The open ear style and listening experience distinguishes the AfterShokz brand; and while an increase in situational awareness makes sense, that value doesn’t always translate until you’ve had the chance to try them out for yourself,” said Tom Lee, the Vice President of Merchandising at Office Depot. “In order to provide that all important hands-on experience, we’ve invested in interactive show and tell displays so the consumer can get closer and familiar with the product.”

AfterShokz bone conduction headphones are an evolution of the sport and Bluetooth headphones (http://www.aftershokz.com/AfterShokz-Bluez-Open-Ear-Bluet...) category, delivering an unmatched stereophonic open ear experience—the safest and most comfortable way to tune in to music or a phone call, without tuning out surroundings. AfterShokz uses patent pending bone conduction technology (http://www.aftershokz.com/TheTechnology-s/1477.htm), initially designed for military communication, to transfer stereophonic sound via light vibrations on the cheekbones to the inner ears, bypassing the eardrums completely.

The lightweight and moisture-resistant wraparound headband curls over the ears securely, providing complete stability and comfort during activity. With nothing nested inside or covering the ears that could potentially block ambient noise, users are able to remain alert and situationally aware, staying connected to both what they are listening to and nearby conversations or important warning sounds with ease.

Additionally, AfterShokz proudly serve the hearing-impaired community as the open ear design allows for their use despite some forms of hearing damage and without removing hearing aids; and those with vision impairments that rely on assistive GPS instructions via headphones can simultaneously hear environmental noise allowing them the ability to remain acutely in touch with surroundings.

AfterShokz headphones are currently available for purchase on Office Depot's website (http://www.officedepot.com/catalog/search.do?Ntt=aftershokz) and in locations nationwide. MSRPs for Sportz 2, Sportz M2 and Bluez are $49.99, $69.99 and $99.99 respectively.

About AfterShokz

AfterShokz brings patent pending bone conduction technology, initially developed for military special operations and law enforcement by Voxtech in 2001, to everyday sport, mobile and Bluetooth headphones. AfterShokz offers consumers a more comfortable, healthy and safe listening experience with several innovative models of open ear stereo headphones. Unlike conventional headphones and earbuds that use the eardrums to transmit sound, AfterShokz open ear headphones sit comfortably in front of the ears and transmit sound through the listener’s cheekbones to the inner ears, bypassing the eardrums completely. To learn more about the company’s use of bone conduction technology and detailed features of these award-winning headphones, please visit www.aftershokz.com.

About Office Depot

Office Depot provides core office supplies, the latest technology, school essentials, copy & print services (http://www.officedepot.com/a/design-print-and-ship/?cm_re=Home-_-DPS-_-DesignAndPrint), cleaning & breakroom products, and furniture to consumers, teachers and businesses of all sizes through 1,614 worldwide retail stores, global e-commerce operations, a dedicated sales force, an inside sales organization, and top-rated catalogs. The Company has annual sales of approximately $10.7 billion, employs about 38,000 associates, and serves customers in 60 countries around the world.

Office Depot’s common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol ODP. Additional press information can be found at: http://news.officedepot.com.