Shokz has announced two new editions of its Open earbuds. Like the original OpenDots One that launched in May 2025, the new Shox OpenDots 2 and OpenDots Air are both designed to be worn behind your ear and their drivers are positioned to project sound toward your ear canals without blocking it. It’s a design that potentially offers greater comfort and environmental awareness than traditional wireless earbuds, while the two new versions meet specific needs.
The OpenDots Air is an entry-level version available in black or daybreak purple color options for $129.95 which is more than $70 cheaper than the original. These include Shokz’s “next-generation spherical acoustic structure”, called the Basesphere, which uses a pair of custom 11.8 mm drivers on each side with an “optimized diaphragm” to improve bass, sound and clarity. You can create custom EQs in the accompanying app, but there are also preset sound profiles, including a voice-boosting mode for podcasts and audiobooks, as well as a privacy mode that reduces high frequencies when you’re in a quiet environment.
The battery life is estimated to last up to nine hours which can be extended up to 36 hours with the charging case. There’s no ANC, but AI algorithms are used to help reduce background noise during calls. The OpenDots Air also feature Dynamic Ear Detection so you can wear them on either side without having to determine which earbud goes on the left or right. They will figure it out themselves.
The OpenDots Air are the lighter of the two new models at 6.3 grams per earbud, but the $199.95 OpenDots 2 aren’t much heavier at 6.4 grams per bud and offer more functionality. Available in Pearl White, Gray and Black color options, the OpenDots 2 has the same dual-driver system as the Air but with support for Dolby Audio. To further improve your sound on calls, an additional bone-conduction microphone has been added to help isolate your voice from background noise that may make it difficult for others to hear you.
The battery life of the OpenDots 2 is 10 hours alone or 40 hours with their charging case, which can be paired with a Qi wireless charger. Both of Shokz’s new offerings use Bluetooth 6.1, can connect to two devices simultaneously for easy switching (such as between your phone and laptop), and can be located using the Shokz mobile app, but only when you’re within Bluetooth range. OpenDots 2 improves your chances of being found with support for Google’s Find Hub app, which will reveal their last known location even if you’re not around them.
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