Review: Huawei X Gentle Monster Eyewear II — fashionable smart specs

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Review: Huawei X Gentle Monster Eyewear II — fashionable smart specs

As most tech brands expand on their AIoT (Artificial Intelligence of Things) product lines, Huawei released an eyewear with smart specs to complete your fit in this new normal. If you didn’t know yet, Huawei has an impressive range of smart eyewear options that boast both classic styling and modern technology in partnership with the South Korean eyeglass brand, Gentle Monster. The range is composed of a mix of eyeglasses and sunglasses, but the pair we have on hand are the ‘Smart Myma’ shades.

Inside the box: Huawei Gentle Monster II, Charging case, USB-Type-C charger, micro-fiber cloth, warranty card, safety information, Huawei Gentle Monster Information

Design and build

From first impressions the Myma are reminiscent of 1970’s-era designer chic with their elongated and pronounced shape, with dual silver rivets on the ends of each frame. The arced sides at the end of each titanium-alloy “arm” ensure a snug and ergonomic fit, although this may also depend on head shape. The Myma’s materials are mixed between plastic and metal which was essential to maintain relatively lightweight eyewear weighing in at only 48.1g.

On the sides or the arm of the Smart Myma are where things start to get technical, as they double as “semi-open” speakers. Within these sides are three sensors that bring quality sound to the speakers due to the 128mm² large diaphragm they fit within. Huawei promises that these sides “minimize the presence of audio leakage via inverse sound waves, ensuring that conversations remain private, even in quiet environments”. Impressively, Huawei did not disappoint with the sound quality it delivered during calls. On top of that, despite having all that tech inside, the sides managed to have an average thickness size which still makes it comfortable to wear. However, for music you can’t really expect booming bass nor crisp high frequencies (like clashing cymbals) as the Myma’s size affects its audio performance quite a bit. It’s also important to take note that audio leaks may be possible if the volume is set to max.

Bluetooth connection

Getting started with the Myma is easy. To pair it with your phone, you have to press the button on the back of your charging case for three to six seconds until the white light blinks. It can then easily be connected with your Android or Apple device via Bluetooth. It supports Bluetooth 5.2 and priority channel technology, which makes connection near-instant and seamless. To access more settings and control firmware updates, it’s recommended to download the Eyewear app which is only available for Android users currently.

Touch and haptics

The Myma’s speaker sides also act as touch controls for your music – simply swipe along the side of the left arm to change the volume or the right arm to skip tracks. Double tapping the right arm allows you to play or pause music, while double tapping the left arm activates the voice assistant. For voice calls, double tap either side to answer or end a call. Another neat feature that involves Huawei tech is the audio-video synchronization whenever you are playing games or movies on your phone. In essence, it optimizes the audio and signal of whatever it is you are playing or watching by automatically identifying ideal acoustic scenarios.

The fancy case

The case for the Smart Myma also have another function besides storage – they charge the shades via wireless charging inside the case when not in use, but the case has to be connected via a Type-C charger. The case provides plenty of room for the sunglasses as it is boxy in shape, meaning you won’t have to squeeze them into the case like you typically would for regular sunglasses. The feel of the case itself is sturdy and actually quite premium with its leathery-like material. The case is also NFC fast-charging capable, and a full charge will last you about 5 hours of audio. A green indicator light on the back of the case and on the top-middle area inside the case lets you know if they are charging and when they are fully charged.

Verdict

The Smart Myma retails for PHP 21,999 which may be a bit pricey but it does offer a uniquely premium experience and look. It’s almost impossible to know that these are smart specs just by looking at them. You can easily answer calls conveniently, listen to music when on the road or during long-haul flights, and still protect your eyes and look fashionable to boot. Keep an eye out for these shades in Huawei stores and on their official web shop, because you’ll certainly want to look smart in these smart specs.

Pros

  • Quality speakers
  • Responsive touchpad
  • Fashionable and protective sunglasses
  • Lightweight
  • Premium case

Cons

  • Plasticky feel
  • A bit too big especially for those with smaller faces/heads
  • Charging case didn’t have battery

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