Designer Q's Portfolio
UNBOUND
TRUE WIRELESS EARBUDS
UNBOUND TW Earbuds feature a simple, ergonomic design that fits comfortably in the ear, with soft, flexible ear tips that provide passive noise isolation.
A distinctive feature is the extended battery pack, connected via a detachable cable, which offers additional listening time—enhancing usability beyond typical true wireless limitations.
​
Published at CES 2018
© Merkury Innovations 2017
BUILT-IN FLEXIBLE
USB CONNECTOR
CHARGING CASE WITH BUILT-IN USB CONNECTOR
UNBOUND TW Earbuds offer 2.5 hours of playtime, with an additional 12+ hours provided by the portable power case. The case features a built-in flexible USB connector, eliminating the need to carry an extra cable.
90mAh BATTERY
+ COMFORT & FLEXIBLE CABLE
POGO PINS
+ MAGNETS
+ SNAP-IN DOCKING
EXTENDED BATTERY + DOCKING CLIP
​
The extended battery cable provides an additional 4–5 hours of playtime. Its exclusive docking clip system offers unique advantages over typical true wireless earbuds—including Apple AirPods—which can’t be used while charging.
With pogo pins embedded in the docking clips, the cable delivers power directly to the earbuds while in use. Built-in magnets in the clips allow the cable to be worn like a neckband when not in use, keeping the earbuds easily accessible.
COMPETITOR RESEARCH
IDEATION SKETCHES
PROBLEMS & INSIGHT
What makes people dislike True wireless earbuds?
Short battery life
Needs an additional battery life
PROBLEM 1
Lack of battery life
SOLUTION:
Extended battery w/ cable
ADVANTAGES OF THE EXTENDED BATTERY & CABLE
True Wireless
Additional Playtime
from the extra battery
Built-in magnets allow users put the two docking clips together and wear like a neckband.
Easy carry and keep the earbuds together around your neck
PROBLEM 2:
NEED TO CARRY A SEPARATE CHARGING CABLE TO CHARGE THE CASE
SOLUTION
Built-in USB Connector
CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
CAD-based ideation and refinement
3D printed mockups to validate design intent and form
USER TEST
Tested for comfort, fit, and ease of use
Functionality evaluated under real-life scenarios
UNBOUND
TRUE WIRELESS EARBUDS
UNBOUND TW Earbuds stand out through a series of user-focused innovations: a built-in USB charging case that eliminates the need for separate cables, and a detachable extended battery cable that not only adds 4–5 hours of playtime but also allows for continued use while charging. The magnetic docking clips provide secure neckband-style storage when not in use, enhancing portability and daily usability. Together, these features reimagine the true wireless experience with flexibility, convenience, and functional design as key principles.
​
Published at CES 2018
© Merkury Innovations 2017