The HP-NC20.IPs active noise-cancelling earphones by Hitachi Maxell don't need batteries to work. They instead connect to and suck power directly from iPods to which they're exclusively compatible. The earphones promise 20 dB reduction in noise through active noise-cancelling technology.

At 22 grams in weight, 95cm in length, and the elimination of a battery power source, it should have been the perfect option for long commutes or the like. Unfortunately, the power that it sucks from the iPod is too large for convenience - these earphones can reduce an iPod's battery life by 50 to 66 percent. The Hitachi Maxell HP-NC20.IPs earphones connect via iPod dock and are compatible with all generations of iPod (with dock connectors) and iPod Touch. It will be available by December 12 in Japan (only, for now) at an $85 price point.