Scroll

PRODUCT CASE STUDY: 3M WorkTunes Connect + Solar

3M WorkTunes has been a trusted brand of hearing protection with integrated audio for over a decade, catering to DIYers and outdoor workers who want both noise reduction and entertainment.

Throughout the lifetime of the WorkTunes product line, 3M has been guided by a simple principle: “The best hearing protection is the hearing protection you want to wear.” To that end, they bring together protection, comfort and entertainment for products that consumers return to year after year.

Introducing 3M WorkTunes Solar + Connect

3M continues to push boundaries with the WorkTunes Solar + Connect, launched in October 2024. Featuring solar-powered charging and enhanced Bluetooth connectivity, it eliminates battery concerns while ensuring seamless audio streaming. This innovation underscores 3M’s commitment to sustainability and convenience, offering users an even more efficient and eco-friendly solution.

“Today’s consumer demands more – modern design, high-quality sound and effective protection – and they deserve a product that meets these needs,” said Jonathan Pieronek, global portfolio director, 3M Consumer Health and Safety. “We are proud to deliver on that with 3M WorkTunes Connect + Solar Hearing Protector, giving consumers reliable, long-lasting hearing protection on the jobsite and off.”

Powerfoyle solar cells in the headband allow the 3M WorkTunes Connect + Solar to charge in outdoor and indoor light. Thanks to this continuous charging, the headset is always ready to go, so users can stream music and take calls with confidence. At the same time, it reduces the reliance on disposable batteries for a more environmentally-friendly and cost-effective option for outdoor work and DIY projects.

With the WorkTunes Solar + Connect, 3M reaffirms its leadership in hearing protection innovation—delivering superior comfort, audio quality, and now, sustainable power to keep workers connected and protected all day long.

Features include:

  • Solar charging: Equipped with Exeger’s Powerfoyle™ solar cells integrated into the headband, the WorkTunes Connect + Solar continuously charges in outdoor or indoor light for all-day entertainment
  • Built-in rechargeable battery: With 40+ hours of reserve battery life for uninterrupted performance and reliability
  • Hearing protection meets entertainment: WorkTunes offers effective noise reduction (NRR 24-29 dB) while allowing users to listen to music, podcasts, or take calls.
  • Wireless connectivity: Bluetooth connectivity and built-in microphone keeping users connected with hands-free communication.
  • Durability and comfort: Their lightweight yet rugged design allows WorkTunes to withstand daily use in light industrial environments, while remaining comfortable for extended wear.

3M WorkTunes Connect + Solar is available for purchase at select hardware and safety equipment stores, through authorized 3M distributors, and online at sites such as Amazon. Availability may differ by region.

What do users say about it?

“The solar cell headband is sheer genius – I can use it all day long outside and the battery rarely gets low.”

Restless Dave, user (via Amazon)

“Long story short, if you just want a way to block the world out, listen to yourmedia, and worry less about the battery dying, these are the gift to yourself. Anybody who works with high decibel equipment should give these a try.”

T. Baldwin, user (via Amazon)

“One of the standout features is the solar charging – it’s about time someone implemented this for those of us who use earmuffs in outdoor settings. I haven’t had to plug them in yet, and the battery life has been solid.”


Sam F, user (via Amazon)