Shokz has introduced the OpenFit Air 2 earbuds, a refresh of its original open-ear model, with each unit weighing 7.2 grams. That makes the new version about 17 percent lighter than the previous generation, a reduction that brings the weight down to roughly that of a handful of paperclips. The new earbuds are aimed at users who want an audio option that does not block off the ear canal.
The open-ear design means there is no seal in the ear, which eliminates the pressure that comes with traditional in-ear buds. It also allows wearers to hear their surroundings more easily, making the product a practical choice for outdoor exercise in busy urban environments. The standard Shokz OpenAir 2 earbuds previously earned a spot on Engadget's list of the best headphones for running, providing context for the new model's target audience.
One trade-off of this form factor is the ear-hook mechanism used to keep the earbuds in place. While the ergonomic design is intended for long-term comfort, those hooks may interfere with glasses or certain types of hats, so potential buyers may want to review product photos before committing. Beyond that, Shokz promises improved audio, citing "richer bass" and "fuller sound" from the proprietary Bassphere driver and OpenBass 2.0 algorithm.
The earbuds also feature an angled speaker that directs sound toward the ear for a more natural listening experience. Companion app support includes four preset EQ modes and two custom EQ profiles. Battery life is rated at eight hours per charge, with up to 36 hours total when factoring in the included charging case, and a 10-minute quick charge provides three hours of playback.
Connectivity on the OpenFit Air 2 includes Bluetooth 6.1 and multipoint support, allowing users to pair with multiple devices. The earbuds are set to go on sale on August 27 at a price of $130. Shokz also unveiled the OpenRun Air 2 earbuds on the same date, which feature a design that wraps around the back of the head for stability and minimal bounce during running.
The OpenRun Air 2 uses a bone conduction driver and also connects to the Shokz app for EQ adjustments. Its battery lasts ten hours on a single charge, and a five-minute quick charge yields two hours of playback. Like the OpenFit Air 2, the OpenRun Air 2 will be available on August 27 and carries the same $130 price point.
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