Jabra Launches First Wireless Speakerphone Featuring Noise Blackout Technology

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 6 /PRNewswire/ -- GN Netcom, the world leader in innovative headset solutions, today announced the Jabra CRUISER, the first Bluetooth® wireless speakerphone for mobile phones to feature Noise Blackout(TM) technology, a dual microphone system that eliminates street and traffic sounds while optimizing voice quality. Joining Jabra's successful and critically acclaimed line of speakerphones, the CRUISER offers superior audio quality, a sleek design, and in-car convenience, allowing drivers to keep both hands on the wheel in compliance with hands-free driving laws. The Jabra CRUISER will be shown for the first time this week at the 2010 Consumer Electronics Show (CES).

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100106/NE30753 )

Currently, six states prohibit all drivers from talking on handheld cell phones while driving, and additional states are following suit. Violation of such laws could result in a ticket; however, there are a number of wireless solutions to help keep both hands on the wheel and savings in the bank. The Jabra CRUISER includes features that keep users informed of incoming calls, battery level, and connectivity status - all without the touch of a finger. The device features caller ID in the form of voice announcements, which intelligently accesses a paired phone's address book to announce the name of an incoming caller. StatusDisplay LED indicators on the speakerphone display multi-colored lights that correspond to the headset's battery level and Bluetooth connection status so users can gauge their status with just one glance.

The Jabra CRUISER also conquers one of the biggest limitations with car speakerphones: ambient noise. The proprietary Noise Blackout technology identifies the direction of various sounds - including traffic and backseat chatter - and reduces only surrounding noise without distorting a user's voice. The technology uses dual microphones to capture the sound and then intelligently filters the ambient noise only. Used together with advanced DSP technology for echo reduction, the technology allows both sides of a call to be heard in natural sounding voice quality.

Featuring Multiuse(TM) connectivity, the Jabra CRUISER allows two Bluetooth-enabled devices - including mobile phones, smartphones, and MP3 players - to be paired simultaneously via a turnkey auto-pairing function for instant usability. Ideal for both family road trips or business travel, the CRUISER detects an incoming call and connects to the respective device. MP3 tracks can even be remotely controlled from the CRUISER with simple play, pause and rewind buttons on the speakerphone. In addition, a built-in FM transmitter allows calls and MP3s stored on a mobile device and played via the Jabra CRUISER to be heard through a car's stereo system. Ensuring that users won't miss phone calls while listening to music, the CRUISER even fades out music to allow for incoming calls.

The Jabra CRUISER is available online and at Verizon and AT&T retail stores for a suggested retail price of $99.99.

Key product specifications of the Jabra CRUISER include:

• Bluetooth 2.1, including EDR and eSCO
• A2DP and AVRCP for music streaming
• Noise Blackout technology with dual microphones and echo cancellation (DSP)
• FM Transmitter for listening to calls and music through car stereo speakers
• Caller ID voice announcements via phone book access profile (PBAP)
• StatusDisplay LED indicators for battery level and Bluetooth connection status
• Multiuse - connects to 2 devices at the same time
• Auto-pairing to mobile phone
• Up to 14 hours of talk time and 300 hours of standby time
• Dimensions - 5in (L) x 2.4in (W) x 0.6in (H)
• Weight - 3 ounces
• Includes a Micro USB cable, universal car charger, clip for visor and quick start manual

In fall 2009, GN Netcom launched the Jabra STONE, a revolutionary wireless headset that delivered a new era in style and broke the mold of the traditional Bluetooth headset. Eliminating the standard on-face microphone, the Jabra STONE combines both style and functionality and features a wireless portable charger that also functions as a compact carrying case. The Jabra STONE, currently available for $129.99 at AT&T retail stores, will be available at other retail outlets nationwide beginning February 1, 2010.

For more information on Jabra's full line of mobile products, visit www.jabra.com/buy.

About GN Netcom

Through its Jabra brand, GN Netcom is a world leader in innovative headset solutions. With sales offices around the world, GN Netcom develops, manufactures and markets a broad range of wireless headsets for mobile users and both wireless and corded headsets for contact center and office-based users. GN Netcom's business activities also include its original equipment manufacturing (OEM) business. GN Netcom has been helping people communicate since 1869 and is a listed company on OMX Nordic Exchange.

For further information on the company, please visit www.jabra.com.

© GN Netcom A/S. All rights reserved. Jabra © is a registered trademark of GN Netcom A/S. All other trademarks included herein are the property of their respective owners.

SOURCE Jabra