JR East collaborated with Panasonic Corp. to develop a vacuum-inspired device capable of retrieving dropped wireless earphones, like the Apple AirPods. They are currently conducting tests at JR East’s Ikebukuro Station to show the device works far better than a traditional grabber tool. It’s estimated that there were 950 cases of dropped earphones in the Tokyo area between July and September alone, according to East Japan Railway Co.
JR East typically use a claw-like grabber tool to collect objects falling onto rail tracks, but sometimes, it’s difficult for the tool to securely grab a dropped earphone as the device often gets stuck among gravel. Railway officials are requesting that customers ask official staff to collect dropped items rather than picking up them by themselves for obvious safety reasons.
- HIGH-QUALITY SOUND — Powered by the Apple H1 headphone chip, AirPods (2nd generation) deliver rich, vivid sound.
- EFFORTLESS SETUP — After a simple one-tap setup, AirPods are automatically on and always connected. They sense when they’re in your ears and pause...
- VOICE CONTROL WITH SIRI — Just say “Hey Siri” for assistance without having to reach for your iPhone.
