In episode 135 of the THD Podcast, Gary Spittle from Sonical joins to tell us about his Remora project. Remora PRO is a first-of-its-kind “head-worn computing platform” designed by Sonical to transform existing headphones into intelligent, programmable devices—a concept the company calls Headphone 3.0. It is primarily an external wireless accessory that adds high-fidelity, ultra-low-latency connectivity and app-based customization to traditional wired or wireless headphones.

Core Technology
Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Wireless: Unlike standard Bluetooth, Remora PRO uses UWB to deliver uncompressed, lossless audio (up to 24-bit/96kHz) with imperceptible latency of less than 5ms.
CosmOS Operating System: It runs on Sonical’s CosmOS, a dedicated “operating system for the ear” that allows users to download third-party plugins and apps directly onto the hardware.
Audio Hardware: The device features a THX Achromatic Audio Amplifier (THX AAA™) for ultra-low distortion, an ESS Sabre DAC, and an XMOS USB interface.
BodyWave™ Antenna: To prevent the signal dropouts common with wearable UWB tech, it incorporates AntennaWare’s BodyWave technology, ensuring a stable link even when blocked by the user’s body.

Key Features & Use Cases
Customizable Audio: Through the CosmOS platform, users can add features like personalized EQ profiles, spatial audio rendering, and hearing protection.
Health & Wellness: It supports advanced health algorithms, including tinnitus sound therapy (developed with Newcastle University) and HearAngel smart hearing safeguarding.
Universal Compatibility: It can attach to any pair of headphones and connect to sources via analog, USB, or Bluetooth.
Professional Focus: Targeted at DJs, audio engineers, and gamers who require the reliability of a wired connection with the freedom of wireless.

Availability & Pricing
Estimated Price: Approximately USD $949 / £759 / €890 for the complete system (wearable unit and UWB dongle). Status: As of early 2026, the product is in trial manufacturing at the Sony UK Technology Centre in Wales to prepare for large-scale production.