Bose Frames are augmented reality audio sunglasses

We're still a way off from augmented reality devices being an everyday part of our lives, but Bose's new sunglasses are a subtle step towards that reality.

Bose Frames are sunglasses, but they're also a wearable audio device. Embedded in each arm of the glasses is a Bose speaker, and near the temple on the right arm is a microphone and multi-function button. The speakers are pointed backwards allowing them to fire audio into your ears without the need for earbuds.

First shown at SXSW earlier this year in prototype form, Bose calls the new Frames the world's first "audio augmented reality platform." In reality, Bose just combined headphones and glasses, but also unlocked a few smart features in the process.

As well as streaming music and allowing you to take calls hands- and ears-free, a nine-axis head motion sensor is linked to your Android or iOS handset allowing your location and what direction you're looking at to be tracked using the Bose Connect app.

Although Frames don't visually show you anything, they do allow for virtual assistants to be called upon, points of interest to be highlighted, and directions given without needing to pull out your phone to look at a map. They're also pretty good sunglasses, blocking up to 99 percent of UVA and UVB rays.

Bose Frames will cost $199 when they become available in January. For that you get either Alto or Rondo frame designs, which are shatter and scratch resistant while only weighing 45 grams. The rechargeable battery lasts 3.5 hours when listening to audio continuously, or up to 12 hours on standby. Recharging takes two hours using a pogo-pin cable.