Sony is expanding its audio portfolio with a new model that deliberately breaks new ground: with the LinkBuds Clip, the manufacturer presents true wireless headphones in an open-ear format that combine sound enjoyment and environmental awareness. The concept is aimed at anyone who wants to integrate music, podcasts or calls into their everyday life without completely isolating themselves from the outside world. Technically, the LinkBuds Clip build on Sony’s well-known audio expertise and combine open design with smart functions, modern connectivity and a high level of wearing comfort.
- Open clip-on design for simultaneous listening to music and surroundings
- Three listening modes for different situations such as everyday life, on the go or quiet environments
- Long battery life of up to 37 hours including charging case
- Extensive sound and app features from Sony’s premium audio ecosystem
Open design and high wearing comfort of the Sony LinkBuds Clip
The central feature of the Sony LinkBuds Clip is their open open-ear design, which differs significantly from classic in-ear headphones. The C-shaped clip-on concept does not penetrate the ear canal, but sits on the outside of the ear. This leaves the ear free, allowing a natural perception of the surroundings. Conversations, traffic or announcements can still be heard without having to remove the headphones. At the same time, the typical pressure in the ear, which is often perceived as annoying when worn for long periods, is eliminated.
Sony says it has listened carefully to user feedback and designed the shape to fit as many ear types as possible. Additional molded cushions allow the position on the ear to be fine-tuned, further increasing stability and comfort. Thanks to their low weight, the LinkBuds Clip are hardly noticeable even when worn for long periods. This makes them particularly suitable for everyday wear, office work, sporting activities or situations where you need to be aware of your surroundings.
- The top model: Huawei FreeClip 2 test: The best open-ear headphones 2026?
Sound, smart functions and technology in everyday use
Despite the open design, Sony has not sacrificed its familiar audio features. The LinkBuds Clip offer a natural, balanced sound that is supported by technologies such as DSEE music upscaling and 360 Reality Audio. Sound profiles with a 10-band equalizer can be individually adjusted via the Sony | Sound Connect app, while “Find Your Own Equalizer” makes tuning even easier. The sound concept is complemented by three listening modes: a standard mode for music, the Voice Boost mode for intelligible voices in noisy environments and Sound Leakage Reduction to minimize sound radiation in quiet rooms.
The LinkBuds Clip also rely on high-quality technology for phone calls and meetings. A bone conduction sensor in combination with AI-supported noise suppression ensures clear voice transmission, even in the presence of ambient noise. The battery life is generous at up to 37 hours including the charging case, while a quick-charging function enables around one hour of playback after just three minutes of charging. The headphones also support multipoint Bluetooth, are protected against sweat and rain in accordance with IPX4 and can be conveniently operated via tap control.
Sustainability, price and availability
In addition to technology and comfort, Sony also attaches great importance to environmental aspects with the LinkBuds Clip. The packaging is completely plastic-free and around 20 percent of the plastic used in the product is made from recycled material. The model thus joins Sony’s efforts to integrate sustainability more strongly into product development.
The Sony LinkBuds Clip will be available from January 2026 in the colors greige, black, lavender and green. The recommended retail price is 199.99 euros. Sony is thus positioning the open-ear headphones in the upper mid-range segment and offering an alternative for anyone who wants to combine conscious listening, modern technology and suitability for everyday use.
Source: Sony
