Shokz has expanded its open-ear audio range with the launch of the OpenDots Air, a new clip-on earbud designed to make the brand’s signature open-ear listening experience more accessible without compromising comfort, awareness or everyday usability.
The new model joins the new flagship OpenDots 2, which DRN has had been hands on for the past week. You can read Kevin’s full review about those here.
Positioned as the entry model in the OpenDots family, OpenDots Air has been developed for people seeking a lightweight, stylish alternative to traditional in-ear earbuds while remaining aware of their surroundings during daily activities.
Weighing just 6.3 grams per earbud, the OpenDots Air features a compact clip-on design that sits comfortably on the ear, making it suitable for commuting, work, social outings and light exercise. Unlike conventional earbuds that seal the ear canal, Shokz’s open-ear design allows users to enjoy music and calls while maintaining environmental awareness.
While it sits below the OpenDots 2 in the range, OpenDots Air retains many of the smart features that impressed us in the flagship model, including open-ear situational awareness, multipoint pairing and a lightweight clip-on fit. The key differences come in the premium audio enhancements, battery performance and advanced calling technologies reserved for the OpenDots 2.
Despite its entry-level positioning, the OpenDots Air includes several of Shokz’s core audio technologies. Bassphere™ acoustic technology delivers rich, balanced sound, while DirectPitch™ technology helps reduce sound leakage for a more private listening experience. The earbuds also support MultiPoint Pairing, allowing users to stay connected to two devices simultaneously.
Battery life is rated at up to 36 hours with the charging case, providing all-day performance for work, travel and entertainment.
The OpenDots Air will be available in Daybreak Purple and Black, with an Australian recommended retail price of A$219. Sales begin on 23 July 2026 via shokz.com.au, with Harvey Norman holding exclusive retail availability until 23 August, after which the earbuds will also be stocked by JB Hi-Fi and other participating Australian retailers.
To celebrate the launch, Shokz is also offering a limited-time gift of jewellery-inspired clip-on accessories with eligible purchases through its official website and selected retail partners while stocks last.
For buyers looking for the latest premium open-ear experience, the OpenDots 2 remains the flagship choice. However, the arrival of the OpenDots Air gives Australian consumers a more affordable way to experience Shokz’s distinctive clip-on design and open-ear technology, making the range accessible to an even broader audience.
| Feature | OpenDots ONE | OpenDots 2 | OpenDots Air |
|---|---|---|---|
| Positioning | Original premium clip-on | Flagship clip-on | Affordable everyday clip-on |
| Australian RRP | $339 | $339 (corrected 29/7/26) | $219 |
| Acoustic Technology | Bassphere™ | Bassphere™ 2.0 | Bassphere™ |
| Spatial Audio | Dolby Audio | Upgraded Dolby Audio | — |
| Private Listening | DirectPitch™ | MirrorPitch™ / DirectPitch™ | DirectPitch™ |
| Comfort Design | Contoured silicone + Ni-Ti plate | Contoured silicone + Ni-Ti plate | Skin-soft silicone + Ni-Ti plate |
| Weight | 6.5g | 6.4g | 6.3g |
| Colours | Black, Grey, Pink | Pearl White, Grey, Black | Daybreak Purple, Black |
| Microphones | Dual air-conduction mics | Dual air-conduction + bone-conduction mic | Dual air-conduction mics |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.4 | Bluetooth 6.1 | Bluetooth 6.1 |
| Controls | Tap + Pinch | Tap + Pinch + Force Sensor | Tap + Pinch + Force Sensor |
| Multipoint Pairing | 2 devices | 2 devices | 2 devices |
| Dust & Water Resistance | Earbuds: IP54 Case: Not waterproof |
Earbuds: IP57 Case: IP54 |
Earbuds: IP55 Case: Not waterproof |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hrs 40 hrs with case |
Up to 10 hrs 40 hrs with case |
Up to 9 hrs 36 hrs with case |
| Charge Time | Earbuds: 1 hr Case: 2 hrs wired / 4 hrs wireless |
Earbuds: 1 hr Case: 2 hrs wired / 3.5 hrs wireless |
Earbuds: 1 hr Case: 2 hrs wired |
| Fast Charging | 10 mins = 2 hrs playback | 5 mins = 2 hrs playback | 10 mins = 2 hrs playback |
| Wireless Charging | Qi-certified | Qi-certified | No |
| EQ | 4 preset EQs + Custom mode | 4 preset EQs + Custom mode | 4 preset EQs + Custom mode |
| Advanced Features | — | Fast Pair, Swift Pair, Find My Earbuds (Google Hub app) | Fast Pair, Swift Pair |


