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Open-Ear Earbuds Take Center Stage at CES 2026 as JBL, Shokz and Soundcore Push New Designs and Near-Term Launches

Rivals are advancing bass, call clarity and optional noise control in open designs, with rollouts spanning this month through March.

Overview

  • JBL detailed five open-ear additions: Endurance Zone ($179.95) and Pace ($89.95) arriving in January, wired Endurance Run 3 in February ($24.95–$34.95), and the Sense Pro ($199.95), Sense Lite ($149.95) and fashion-forward Soundgear CLIPS ($149.95) set for March.
  • JBL’s Sense Pro targets premium open-ear audio with 16.2mm drivers, hi-res support, Adaptive Bass Boost, wireless charging and up to 38 hours total battery, while Sense Lite trims features to hit 32 hours and an IP54 rating.
  • JBL’s OpenSound air-conduction system directs audio without sealing the canal and uses phase control to limit sound leakage, aiming to improve bass and privacy in open-ear wear.
  • Shokz introduced the OpenFit Pro with adjustable open-ear noise reduction, Dolby Atmos support and up to 12 hours per charge (six with noise reduction), with preorders open at $249.95 and priority shipping beginning January 12.
  • Soundcore’s AeroFit 2 Pro offers an adjustable fit that enables ANC when worn more in-ear, listed at $179.99 for February, and is available to order on Soundcore.com at a $149.99 launch price with a limited-time code.