Gimme a Beat: Biometric Headphones Read Your Heart Rate

Gimme a Beat: Biometric Headphones Read Your Heart Rate

Dr. Dre isn't the only rapper revolutionizing the headphone market. Rapper/actor/businessman Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson and SMS Audio have partnered with Intel to launch the SMS Audio BioSport In-Ear Headphones. These new headphones take 50 Cent's recently-launched SMS Audio Sport collection and add a custom heart monitor that collects fitness data -- without forcing the user to wear a bracelet, smartwatch or chest or arm strap.

More: Best Headphones 2014

The in-ear headphones will have a tangle-free cord with a built-in microphone. SMS claims that the patented ear-hook design will deliver a comfortable fit and allow the sensors to do their work. The integrated optical sensor not only takes your heart rate during exercise, but during states of relaxation as well. When you are working out, the sensors work to cancel out noise caused by rigorous movement.

The Audio BioSports headphones are compatible with RunKeeper, funneling all your pertinent fitness information such as heart rate, pace, distance and calorie burn into the app. From there, fitness buffs can track their progress and create custom regimens. RunKeeper is currently the only app that will work with the headphones, but Intel and SMS Audio promise additional support down the line.

While integrating a biometric sensor into a set of headphones is an impressive feat, the most innovative thing about the SMS Audio BioSports is its power source. Instead of relying on batteries that constantly have to be replaced or charged, the in-ears are powered via the 3.5mm gold-plated 3.5mm found on most smartphones and audio players.

The SMS Audio BioSport In-Ear Headphones are set to launch sometime in Q4. Neither company has announced an exact price, but said their targeting a sub $150 price point.

Copyright 2014 Toms Guides , a TechMediaNetwork company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.