Appeal of Headphones Could Help World’s Hard of Hearing, New Futuresource Hearables Research States

Futuresource Consulting announced the forthcoming availability of the new 'Worldwide Hearables Report'. According to the company's research, the growing appeal of aftermarket headphones is opening up the new ‘hearables’ sub-segment, catering for those with hearing loss and alleviating much of the expense and stigma attached to hearing aids. Amid these market developments, Futuresource will carry out in-depth original research to explore the enabling technologies, the underlying consumer attitudes, motivations and the size of the hearables opportunity.

The headphones market continues its recent trend of solid growth in volumes and substantial growth in revenue. Units are projected to grow 4.1% this year to 377 million, to generate retail revenues worth $19.9bn, a sizable increase of 27% y-o-y. Headphones continue to be a dynamic market, as average price growth is accelerated by demand from consumers for new premium features and form factors such as true wireless and noise cancellation, which provide further strong growth opportunities for the future.

Pioneer Electronics Asia Centre, a leading manufacturer of aftermarket car audio solutions, announced the launch of the new AVH-Z9150BT multimedia receiver, featuring built-in Wi-Fi wireless connectivity specifically designed to support a cable-free connection between the driver or passenger's smartphone and the receiver. The Pioneer AVH-Z9150BT takes the car infotainment experience to the next level by being the first receiver in Pioneer's lineup to support Apple CarPlay over wired USB and wireless, as well as Wi-Fi Certified Miracast wireless mirroring for selected Android phones.

Following its presentation at CES 2017 and enthusiastic response from the market, Alpine Electronics of America, is now shipping the iLX-107. The Alpine iLX-107 with 7-inch touch screen is the first aftermarket in-dash receiver dedicated to wireless Apple CarPlay, now available in North America. Great news for everyone that doesn't intend to buy a new car soon, but wants the best iPhone integration possible - wired and wireless.