Samsung, OnePlus Add Clip-On Earbuds as Open-Ear Market Crowds

The Galaxy Buds On are Samsung’s first open-ear earbuds. TechRadar reported that global availability has not been announced, although some European websites briefly listed the product before the listings were removed, suggesting a wider rollout could be near. The buds were launched earlier in October, the report said.

OnePlus’s Buds Clip feature dual drivers, sound-leakage prevention, above-average battery life and automatic left-right detection, which allows either bud to be clipped to either ear while producing the correct channel, according to TechRadar. The earbuds will sell in Asia, Europe and several other regions, but not in the US or UK, after OnePlus retreated from those markets earlier this year, the report said.

The launches come as open-ear earbuds are drawing more brands and products. TechRadar reported that Bose recently unveiled two options, Shokz sells the OpenDots Air alongside a premium model, and Soundcore recently introduced two near-identical options. Entry-level audio companies including Soundpeats, Baseus and Earfun also offer multiple pairs, according to the report.

TechRadar said open earbuds have become popular because they are comfortable, do not block surrounding sound, often have strong battery life due to the typical lack of active noise cancellation, usually cost less than comparable in-ear buds and now sound better than earlier versions.

But the publication said competition has limits. Open earbuds offer less room for variety than in-ear models, and 99% of the pairs it tests feel largely the same in fit, sound and operation, according to TechRadar. The volume of releases makes it harder for new buyers to decide which pair to buy and can make buyers doubt their choice when a new option arrives soon after, the report said. TechRadar advised buyers to choose a trusted brand at a price within budget rather than try to follow every launch.