Shokz has launched two new open earbud models, the OpenDots 2 and OpenDots Air, building on the design of its original OpenDots One released in May 2025. These earbuds are designed to clip behind the ear, with sound projected toward the ear canal without blocking it, offering users greater comfort and awareness of their surroundings compared to traditional in-ear models. The OpenDots Air, priced at $129.95, are the more affordable option, coming in black and daybreak purple. They feature Shokz' new Bassphere acoustic structure with dual 11.8mm drivers and an optimized diaphragm to enhance bass, clarity, and volume. Users can adjust sound settings via an app, with preset modes for voice content and privacy that lowers high frequencies in quiet spaces. Each OpenDots Air earbud weighs 6.3 grams, making them the lighter of the two new models, and they offer up to nine hours of playback, extendable to 36 hours with the charging case. The earbuds support dynamic ear detection, automatically adjusting for left or right placement. The OpenDots 2, priced at $199.95 and available in pearl white, gray, and black, weigh slightly more at 6.4 grams per earbud but offer additional features. They include the same dual-driver setup as the Air but add support for Dolby Audio and an extra bone-conduction microphone to improve voice clarity during calls. Battery life for the OpenDots 2 reaches 10 hours on a single charge, extendable to 40 hours with the Qi wireless charging case. Both models use Bluetooth 6.1, support dual-device pairing, and can be located through the Shokz app when within range. The OpenDots 2 also integrate with Google's Find Hub app, allowing users to check the last known location of the earbuds even when out of Bluetooth range.
Shokz is pushing open-ear audio into more specialized territory with two distinct models, but the lack of active noise cancellation may limit appeal in noisy urban environments. The OpenDots Air's $129.95 price point makes them accessible, yet their reliance on app-based EQs could be a barrier for less tech-savvy users. While the OpenDots 2 offer Dolby Audio and better call features, the $199.95 cost may be steep for a niche product in markets where traditional earbuds dominate. For Nigerian consumers, the absence of local pricing and distribution details means these remain out of immediate reach despite their technical appeal.
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