I have been following this for a while. I have nothing against the system and wish them the best in their endeavors. But, I do not understand the economics of the system. Every innovation has to basically cover two basic points; one being benefit, the other being cost.
I am still not understanding the benefit of the system. To use it, you need to be an already certified diver. Even if you learn on this system, there needs to be an assumption that you will encounter more traditional dive gear at home or in other locations. It will simplify diving, with additional training.
Economics is the other factor. Each unit is significantly more expensive than the equivalent traditional OC system. A standard AL 80 is cheap by comparison and probably bought in bulk for less than $150. The same for rental regulators and BCDs. People can own and travel with their own gear. and mix and match as needed pretty much anywhere in the world. No requirements for heavy duty compressors or spare electrical components and batteries and supplemental training . If this gear made diving significantly longer or safer, it might be justified. The advent of the BCD, the Jacket BCD, and the Dive Computer all added a lot to the cost of recreational diving. But the added cost gave significant benefits to safety and comfort of the dive experience. I don't see the added cost out weighing the additional expense. As for the weight difference, I could see other solutions to that (like donning and doffing gear in the water or using sidemount to reduce back strain).
