STACK #249 July 2025

TECH FEATURE

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If you’ve ever wanted to listen to music while still hearing what’s going on around you, open earbuds and headphones are the answer. Words Bec Summer COOLEST THING in AUDIO RIGHT NOW Why OPEN DESIGN EAR GEAR is the

Shokz OpenMove Wireless Open-Ear Headphones

WIRELESS OPEN-EAR HEADPHONES What is bone conduction and how does it work? Some open headphones use ‘bone conduction’ to deliver audio, which might sound high tech (and it is), but is actually pretty simple. Instead of sending sound through the eardrum like regular headphones, bone conduction headphones send vibrations through the bones in your skull, generally the cheekbones. Sound bypasses the ear canal and eardrum entirely and goes straight to the inner ear. These headphones are not only great for outdoor sports and safety, but also a smart option for people with hearing issues or sensitive ears.

W hether you're out and about, working from home, or just chilling out, open earbuds and headphones are all about combining great sound with real-world awareness. Unlike traditional earbuds that slide into your ear canals, or bulky headphones that can block everything out, open-design ear gear sits outside your ear, letting in just enough ambient sound to keep you aware of your surroundings without compromising whatever you’re listening to.

Why go open? The most obvious perk is that you can hear what’s going on around you. Listen to your favourite playlist, podcast, or even take calls, while still hearing the honk of a car, someone calling your name, or an airport gate announcement. Open earbuds and headphones are also lighter, comfortable and more breathable, especially for long periods of wear. Traditional earbud users won’t experience any of the discomfort that can arise after several hours of continuous use – you’ll forget that you’re wearing them. They can also offer a wider and more natural soundstage, effectively blending

Other benefits and advantages

Open earbuds can be a game-changer for the active and sports enthusiasts, with situational awareness making jogging or cycling near busy roads a whole lot safer. When listening at home, you can easily hear a knock at the door or your dog barking without missing a beat on your audiobook or Spotify playlist. They're also great for parents or caregivers who want to remain alert while still enjoying tunes or an audiobook, and catching up on calls.

‘background music’ with your everyday lifestyle.

JBLSense Lite TW Open-Ear Headphone

Sony WI-OE610 Float Run Wireless Off-Ear Running Headphones

Sennheiser Accentum Open True Wireless Earbuds

22 JULY 2025

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