New York based startup, Ampere, has created a new kind of Bluetooth speaker that is waterproof and generates 100% of its power from water.
Designed to fit on any showerhead, users can listen to their favourite music, podcasts and audiobooks while having a shower. As a bonus, it is also made from 100% recycled ocean plastics.
Installed just before the shower head, Shower Power fits on any shower head in any country including fixed, handheld and rain styles. According to Ampere, it can be installed in just a couple of minutes and has no affect on shower pressure or water usage.
Unlike other waterproof speakers that can be used in the bathroom, the Shower Power never needs to be removed for charging once installed.
The concept of Ampere’s hydropower system has been taken from a water wheel in a dam. The water flow rotates an internal amplifier which is connected to a mini generator that charges the battery.
Image: Ampere
This water flow automatically turns the speaker on and uses Bluetooth to connect it to the smartphone or tablet ready to play audio.
Powered by a 2,600mAH Lithium-ion battery, Shower Power gives up to 170 hours of listening time with the water running and up to 14 hours of listening time with no water running. The hydropower charge time is 14-16 hours.
Despite its small size, Ampere has included its proprietary ‘sound wave’ diffuser to send the audio in all direction for a 360-degree immersive sound experience.
A waterproof remote can be used to control the speaker as well as having the option of pressing the buttons on the front of the speaker itself.
To extend the sound further, Ampere has also created Droplet, a mini Bluetooth waterproof speaker that can be paired with Shower Power.
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Kickstarter campaign has been launched to support the idea for Shower Power. When it becomes available, it will launch in three colourways – crisp white, matte black and chrome. Launched on 28 October, the campaign will end on 26 December, with plans to start mass production in early January.