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Sony Ericsson Intros Motion-Activated Headphones

Sony Ericsson introduced Monday headphones that can use motion controls to start and stop music tracks, as well as answer and end phone calls.

The MH907 utilizes a technology called SensMe for its motion controls, and plugging the headphones in your ear will automatically start music playback. Users can pause the music track by taking out one earbud, and taking out both will stop the playback entirely. Answering and ending calls work in a similar manner, Sony Ericsson said.

The company said these headphones use capacitive sensing technology to indicate when the headphone is in the ear, and Sony Ericsson said this means it won't accidentally answer calls or play music in a pocket or purse. The handset maker did not give an estimated price for the headphones, and the accessory will only be compatible with Sony Ericsson phones that have the Fast Port connector.

"At Sony Ericsson we think it is very important to listen to what our customer needs and introducing the world's first ever motion activated headphones highlights our commitment to offer our customers a complete communications entertainment experience," said Jacob Sten, senior VP at Sony Ericsson, in a statement. "The MH907 supports our realigned brand strategy, which aims to build a fun, playful, and inclusive interaction with consumers."

The global economic recession has had negative impacts on the mobile industry, and Sony Ericsson has been especially hard hit because many consumers are holding off upgrading their handsets to save money. The company is trying to emphasize multimedia content to make its handsets more attractive, and to better compete against the likes of Apple, Samsung, Nokia, and LG Electronics. Sony Ericsson has introduced a mobile movie service for its smartphones, and one of its handsets can interact with the PlayStation 3.

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