JBL unveiled its first OpenSound earclips, the Soundgear CLIPS, at CES 2025 in Las Vegas on January 5, 2026. These lightweight devices clip comfortably onto the ear, employing air-conduction technology to deliver sound while maintaining environmental awareness.
The Soundgear CLIPS form part of JBL’s open-ear headphone line. Their clip-on design uses soft TPU material with a flexible SonicArc shape. This configuration secures the earclips to the ear for all-day wear, suitable for activities like spending time with friends or running errands. The positioning of the speaker in the SonicArc optimizes bass performance and minimizes sound leakage, ensuring private listening sessions and calls.
JBL OpenSound technology powers the air conduction, directing high-quality audio without sealing the ear canal. Users remain aware of their surroundings, as the design avoids blocking external sounds. An Adaptive Bass Boost algorithm further refines the dynamic sound profile, enhancing bass response across playback.
Four built-in microphones, supported by an AI algorithm, capture the user’s voice clearly amid background noise. This setup produces crisp calls in various environments. The earclips identify and isolate speech effectively, regardless of ambient conditions.
The Soundgear CLIPS draw from current fashion trends with a metallic tint and translucent finish. Available in four colorways—copper, blue, purple, and white—they serve as statement accessories. The clip-on mechanism allows integration into an earring stack or pairing with sunglasses, accommodating diverse outfits from sleek neutral tones to vibrant pops of color.
A compact, color-matched charging case accompanies the earclips and fits easily into a pocket. Battery capacity provides up to 32 hours of total playtime, distributed as 8 hours from the earbuds and 24 hours from the case. A speed-charge function yields 3 hours of playback after 10 minutes of charging. The earbuds hold an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance.
All-access touch controls manage functions, with customization options available through the JBL Headphones App. Users adjust settings to personalize operation.
The following outlines key specifications of the JBL Soundgear CLIPS:
- Audio Technology: Air conduction powered by JBL OpenSound with enhanced bass and listening privacy through SonicArc design.
- Sound Enhancement: Bass Boost algorithm for dynamic audio optimization.
- Build: Soft TPU with flexible arc shape that clips onto the ear for comfortable all-day wear.
- Call Quality: 4-mic array with AI algorithm for crisp, clear calls in noisy settings.
- Battery Life: Up to 32 hours total playtime (earbuds: 8 hours; case: 24 hours) with Speed Charge delivering 3 hours from 10 minutes.
- Durability: Earbuds rated IP54 for water and dust resistance.
- Controls: All-access touch controls customizable via JBL Headphones App.
Availability begins on JBL.com in March 2026 at a price of $149.95.
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