For months, there were rumors that Microsoft (MSFT) was gearing up to take on Apple (AAPL)’s AirPods with wireless earbuds of its own. On Wednesday, Microsoft finally offered a first look at the new product — and it was strange.
The Surface Earbuds, unveiled during Microsoft’s big product event in New York, could easily be mistaken for gauges, or edgy ear piercings that people slowly acclimate their ears to.
The plastic-y earbuds are receptive to touch, allowing users to swipe up to increase or decrease the volume or swipe to return to a song or skip ahead. It also supports 60 different languages and is supposed to be able to translate as you talk.