STACK #261 July 2026

TECH FEATURE

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Bone conduction vs. open-ear headphones

TRENDING AUDIO TECH

Most bone conduction headphones are open-ear designs, but not all open-ear headphones use bone conduction. Many open-ear models use small speakers near the ear, while bone conduction models use vibration pads that leave the ear canal completely unobstructed.

Who came up with the idea of bone conduction? The idea behind bone conduction dates back centuries. One of the earliest recorded observations came from Italian physician Girolamo Cardano in the 1500s, who noted that sound vibrations could travel through the teeth and skull to the inner ear. Composer Ludwig van Beethoven later used a similar principle to help him hear his music as his hearing deteriorated, by biting on a rod connected to his piano. Who is using them? Sport remains the go-to for bone conduction headphones, particularly among runners, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts who want to remain aware. Swimming is another growing category. Dedicated waterproof models with onboard music storage allow you to leave your phone poolside and still enjoy your favourite playlists in the water. Bone conduction headphones have also found new users in the workplace. Open-ear communication headsets are now increasingly popular with workers who spend battery life. Swimmers should look for fully waterproof models with built-in music storage. If work calls are your priority, focus on microphone quality, noise reduction, and reliable connectivity across laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Shokz OpenComm2 UC Bone Conducting Bluetooth Headset with USB-C Adapter The OpenComm2 brings bone conduction tech into the workplace. An adjustable noise-cancelling boom microphone helps improve call clarity, while the lightweight open-ear design remains comfortable throughout long workdays. PC and Mac compatibility, multipoint pairing, and a dedicated wireless adapter make it a practical option for office, remote, and hybrid work. hours on calls but still need to hear colleagues, customers, and what’s happening around them. What should I look out for? For fitness and outdoor use, prioritise a secure fit, water resistance, and long

Bone conduction headphones might look similar to many open-ear designs, but they work very differently. So, what exactly is bone conduction, how does it work, and why would you need it in a pair of headphones? Words Scott Hocking SOUND TO THE BONE

How does bone conduction work? Bone conduction headphone tech leaves your ears completely open while delivering audio through vibrations. These sound waves travel through your cheekbones directly to the inner ear. The result lets you enjoy music, podcasts, and calls while still hearing traffic, conversations, and other important sounds around you. While early bone conduction headphones focused primarily on safety and awareness, modern models have evolved significantly, offering better sound quality, longer battery life, clearer calls, and smarter connectivity features. Why do I need them? The biggest advantage is situational awareness. They’re ideal for activities where staying alert

matters, such as running, cycling, hiking, and walking. They’re also a great option for

anyone who dislikes traditional earbuds or finds over-ear headphones too bulky. Because nothing sits inside your ears, they’re comfortable enough for all-day wear. Many modern bone conduction headphones also include multipoint Bluetooth, companion apps, custom EQ settings and advanced noise reduction for calls.

TOP PICKS

Shokz OpenRun Pro 2

Shokz OpenSwim Pro Open-Ear Headphones

Designed for active types, the OpenRun Pro 2 combines bone conduction and air conduction tech to deliver fuller sound with stronger bass than earlier generations. A lightweight titanium frame provides a secure fit during exercise, while AI-assisted mics help keep calls clear. IP55 water resistance and up to 12 hours of battery life make it a strong all-round training companion.

Built for the pool, these headphones feature an IP68 waterproof rating and onboard MP3 storage that lets you listen underwater without relying on Bluetooth. Dual Bluetooth and MP3 modes add flexibility out of the water

too, while the secure fit stays comfortable during swimming, running, and other activities.

30 JULY 2026

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