Sony today displayed a new version of its PS3 Bluetooth headset that should improve the experience both for the console and for phones. The new design is about 30 percent smaller and brings active noise cancellation. Phone users get more specific support as well with new support for call waiting and three-way calling.
The design works with the iPhone and any other cellphone that supports Bluetooth headset audio. It provides an on-screen indicator of its current status, puts out sound in high quality with the PS3 and has a microphone mute control; PS3 owners can skip the usual pairing process and auto-associate the headset just by plugging it in through USB. Everyone can use the charging cradle, which becomes a desktop speakerphone when the headset is plugged in.
Sony expects the headset to ship later this month for $50. Using the full PS3 feature set will need at least the 3.5 firmware.
