# Portable Directional Speakers The Samsung S-Ray is a Contactless Alternative to Earphones By Joey Haar | Published 2018-01-04 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/samsung-sray References: [theverge](https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2018/1/2/16842002/samsung-s-ray-neck-speaker-c-lab) & [news.samsung](https://news.samsung.com/global/samsung-c-lab-to-reveal-creative-new-projects-at-ces-2018) Headphones can be uncomfortable over long periods of listening, but playing music through speakers means that everyone around can hear what one is listening to; the newly announced [Samsung](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/samsung-galaxy-air-concept) S-Ray series offers the convenience of speakers without the sound propagation. The [portable Bluetooth speakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/plus-minus-zero) use directional sound to ensure that only the intended listener can hear the audio being played. Unlike with any normal sound, directional sound technology focuses sound in a specific direction — it's the difference between the light cast by an open flame and the light cast by a laser pointer. By applying directional sound to portable speakers, the Samsung S-Ray gives consumers the ability to listen to music without having to plug their ears. The series includes three speakers: two small rectangular speakers and one designed to be [worn around one's neck](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/jbl-openear). ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.2/10 - Popularity: 3% | Activity: 24% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Directional Sound Technology:** The Samsung S-Ray series showcases the potential for directional sound technology in portable speakers, offering a contactless alternative to traditional earphones. - **Wireless Portable Speakers:** The Samsung S-Ray series highlights the growing trend of wireless portable speakers that provide convenient audio experiences without the need for cumbersome headphones. - **Personalized Audio Solutions:** The Samsung S-Ray series taps into the trend of personalized audio solutions by offering a way for individuals to enjoy music without disturbing others around them. ### Who This Affects Most - **Consumer Electronics:** The consumer electronics industry can explore the potential of directional sound technology to create innovative audio products that enhance user experiences. - **Audio Technology:** The audio technology industry can leverage the rise of wireless portable speakers to develop cutting-edge products that offer seamless audio integration in various environments. - **Personal Accessories:** The personal accessories industry can consider incorporating wearable audio solutions, like the neck-worn speaker in the Samsung S-Ray series, to offer stylish and convenient audio options to consumers. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [See-Through Private Listening Speakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/glass-directional-speaker.md) - [Smart Beaming Speakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/noveto-n1.md) - [Hybrid Wearable Headphones](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/neckphone-tri.md) - [Clear-Frame Directional Speakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/focusound.md) - [Gesture-Control Earpiece Concepts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/samsung-galaxy-air-concept.md) - [Decor-Conscious Audiophile Speakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/samsung-music-studio-5-and-7.md) - [Tech-Infused Jewelry Concepts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/samsung-slac.md) - [Suitcase-Style Speaker Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/samsung-sound-tower.md) - [Open-Style Air Conduction Earbuds](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/jbl-soundgear-sense.md)