OnePlus Buds Clip arrive with dual drivers and automatic ear detection

Keeping track of which earbud goes where isn't particularly difficult, but OnePlus has decided we shouldn't have to bother. Its new Buds Clip feature a symmetrical open-ear design that automatically detects which ear they're attached to and adjusts the stereo channels accordingly.

The earbuds use a flexible C-shaped bridge made from nickel-titanium memory alloy, designed to fit around the ear without putting too much pressure on it. Each weighs just 5.2 grams, and according to OnePlus, the design has received TÜV Rheinland's Comfortable Fit certification. Unlike conventional in-ear models, the Buds Clip leave the ear canal open, allowing users to remain aware of their surroundings.

OnePlus has teamed up with Danish audio specialist Dynaudio for the sound department. Each earbud contains an 11 mm woofer and a 9 mm tweeter, supported by dual DACs and the LHDC 5.0 codec for high-resolution wireless audio. There's also a dipole sound system designed to reduce sound leakage, although how well it works outside the company's testing remains to be seen.

 

Calls are handled by six microphones and a dedicated 6 nm audio chip. Bluetooth 6.1, dual-device connectivity, IP55 dust and water resistance, and support for Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair round out the package. Battery life is rated at up to 9.5 hours per charge, or 40 hours with the case. Using LHDC reduces those figures to eight and 36 hours, respectively.

The Buds Clip are presented in 3 color options: Pearl White, Pebble Gray, and Twilight Rose. OnePlus has published the full specifications on its international website, but pricing and wider retail availability have yet to be confirmed.