Hong Kong startup Focusound has introduced a set of transparent speakers that double as decorative photo frames, a concept highlighted by Hi-Tech Mail.Ru. The design reimagines what a speaker can be by combining a sleek metal frame, a glass panel, and precision-driven vibration motors. These motors coax the glass to vibrate at a specific frequency, producing sound with a clarity that feels unusually direct and immersive. The maker notes that Focusound delivers point-source audio, meaning the audible output is most pronounced directly in front of the listener, which creates a personal sonic window that can be less intrusive to others in the same room. This characteristic makes multi-room setups practical: several Focusound units can be placed across a space so multiple listeners enjoy distinct music streams without cross-talk or overlap. The effect is both practical and aesthetically striking, turning the device into a conversation piece as much as a listening instrument.
Beyond its sonic role, Focusound serves as a digital canvas. Behind the glass sits a surface suitable for calendars, favorite photos, or quick notes, transforming the frame into a living, visual companion. The glass panel remains impervious to everyday objects, ensuring that spills, cords, or household items do not degrade the sound experience. Connectivity is straightforward: Focusound pairs with computers, televisions, and mobile devices via Bluetooth or a standard 3.5mm audio jack. For users seeking a more expansive audio field, purchasing two units allows the creation of a stereo pair, delivering a wider, more enveloping soundstage that still preserves the precise, front-focused sound character.
Pre-orders for Focusound are being accepted on Kickstarter, with a price tag around $700. Early supporters can expect shipment in the coming months as production scales and fulfillment logistics catch up with demand. The product positioning emphasizes a blend of modern audio performance and contemporary interior styling, appealing to listeners who want both function and form in their living or workspaces.
As with any new tech product, potential buyers may weigh a few practical considerations. The transparent design showcases the internal mechanics and the glass surface, so users who value discretion in their home decor should assess how the device fits with their room aesthetics. The focused, directional audio can be advantageous in open-plan layouts or private listening nooks but may require careful speaker placement to optimize sound localization. Additionally, the dual-unit stereo option introduces a compact, scalable approach to sound where individual listeners in different zones can enjoy tailored playlists while maintaining a shared visual centerpiece. The combination of a practical print-friendly frame with a capable sound system demonstrates Focusound’s attempt to bridge home acoustics with everyday usability, offering a product that is as much about ambience as it is about audio performance.
In markets like Canada and the United States, where consumer interest in design-forward audio gear continues to grow, Focusound sits at an interesting intersection of lifestyle tech and home electronics. The integration of Bluetooth and analog connectivity ensures compatibility with a broad range of devices, from laptops to televisions, while the visual framing aspect broadens the device’s appeal to homeowners and office spaces looking for multifunctional tech that doubles as decor. With a relatively approachable price point and a compelling use case for shared listening in small to medium rooms, Focusound could become a notable option for early adopters who value both clarity of sound and an eye-catching, adaptable frame that personalizes the listening space. Citations: Hi-Tech Mail.Ru