Dyson Launches OnTrac Headphones, Shifting Focus from Air Filtration to Audio Quality
- Dyson's new OnTrac headphones mark a shift from their previous air-purifying headphone model, the Zone.
- Despite significant research and investment, the OnTrac headphones are conventional and do not include air purification functions.
- The decision reflects a strategic pivot in Dyson's product offerings, focusing on standard audio technology.
Dyson has unveiled its latest product, the OnTrac headphones, which mark a departure from the company's previous model, the Zone. Unlike the Zone, which combined music playback with air filtration, the OnTrac headphones do not filter air at all. This change highlights Dyson's shift in focus towards enhancing audio quality rather than integrating air purification technology into their audio devices. Chief Engineer Jacob Dyson emphasized the company's commitment to preserving the integrity of sound, aiming to create headphones that users would cherish and take pride in. Priced at $500, the OnTrac headphones are positioned as a more affordable option compared to the Zone, which retailed for $700. However, they still carry a premium price tag compared to competitors like Bose, Sony, Apple, and Sonos, which offer high-end headphones at lower prices. The OnTrac headphones feature 40mm speaker drivers with a frequency range of 6 to 21,000 hertz and boast active noise cancellation capable of reducing ambient sound by up to 40dB. In terms of battery life, the OnTrac headphones are impressive, with a claimed 55 hours of usage with active noise cancellation enabled, potentially making them ideal for long-haul flights. The design of the OnTrac maintains Dyson's signature industrial aesthetic, available in various metal finishes and color options for the ear caps and pads, which can be customized for an additional cost.