In a move that's set to expand options for audio enthusiasts who prefer to stay aware of their surroundings, JBL has announced the U.S. release of three new open-style earbuds, including the premium Sense Pro and more affordable Sense Lite models, alongside the innovative Soundgear Clips. The products, first teased back in August 2025, are slated to hit shelves in March 2026, with pricing starting at $149.95. This launch comes amid growing demand for open-ear audio solutions that don't block out ambient noise, a trend highlighted at the ongoing CES 2026 in Las Vegas.
The original JBL Sense earbuds debuted in 2024, marking the company's entry into the open-ear category with a design that uses air conduction technology to deliver sound directly into the ear without sealing the canal. According to details shared by JBL during the CES announcement, the new Sense Pro and Sense Lite build on that foundation, incorporating advanced features like adjustable ear hooks for improved fit and comfort during extended wear. Both models support Dual Connect, which allows users to connect to two devices simultaneously, and Fast Pair for seamless Bluetooth integration with Android devices.
At the top of the lineup, the Sense Pro stands out with its 16.2mm drivers, which JBL says enable support for spatial sound and high-resolution audio, complete with an adaptive bass boost to enhance low-end frequencies without compromising clarity. The earbuds also feature JBL's Voice Pickup Sensor technology, which leverages bone vibrations to isolate the user's voice during calls, paired with an AI-trained algorithm that reportedly improves overall call quality in noisy environments. 'These advancements ensure that users get crystal-clear communication even on the go,' JBL representatives stated in the official product reveal, emphasizing the tech's role in everyday usability.
Battery life is another highlight for the Sense Pro, offering up to 38 hours of total playback—eight hours from the buds themselves and an additional 30 from the charging case. The case supports wireless charging, and a quick 10-minute charge provides four hours of listening time, making it ideal for users with busy schedules. Customization is taken further with Personi-Fi 3.0, JBL's in-app hearing test feature borrowed from higher-end models like the Tour Pro 3, allowing users to tailor equalization settings based on their personal hearing profile. Available in black and gray, the Sense Pro carries a price tag of $199.95.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing core functionality, the Sense Lite trims some of the Pro's bells and whistles but retains the essentials. Lacking spatial sound, hi-res audio support, wireless charging, the Voice Pickup Sensor, and Personi-Fi, the Lite still delivers up to 32 hours of playtime, with 24 hours from the case. A 10-minute charge yields three hours of playback, and the buds are rated IP54 for water and dust resistance, suitable for workouts or light outdoor use. They use Bluetooth 5.4 and come in black, white, and purple colorways, priced at $149.95.
Complementing the Sense lineup is the Soundgear Clips, a clip-on design that attaches to the user's clothing or ears for a hands-free experience. These earbuds include a bass boost feature and the same AI algorithm for enhanced call quality as found in the Sense models. Like the Lite, they offer 32 hours of battery life and IP54 rating, ensuring durability against sweat and splashes. JBL has opted for a stylish translucent aesthetic, with options in copper, blue, purple, and white, also at $149.95.
Central to all three products is JBL's proprietary OpenSound technology, which employs air conduction—a method that directs sound waves through the air into the ear canal—while using phase cancellation to minimize sound leakage to bystanders. This approach keeps ears open to environmental sounds, eliminating the need for a transparency mode that's common in traditional in-ear buds. As one tech analyst noted in coverage of the announcement, 'Open-ear designs like these are gaining traction among runners, cyclists, and office workers who value safety and awareness over full noise isolation.'
The initial reveal of the Sense Pro and Lite occurred in August 2025, but at that time, there was no word on U.S. availability, leaving many potential buyers in anticipation. JBL's decision to bring them stateside now aligns with the broader CES 2026 showcase, where the company is highlighting innovations in personal audio amid a crowded field of competitors like Sony and Bose, who have also pushed open-ear offerings. The Verge, which first reported on the U.S. pricing and release, described the lineup as 'a significant expansion of JBL's open-style earbuds portfolio,' underscoring the models' focus on comfort and connectivity.
From a historical perspective, JBL has been a staple in the audio industry since its founding in 1946, known for professional-grade speakers and headphones used in studios and live events. The shift toward consumer wearables like these earbuds reflects the company's adaptation to the wireless audio boom, which has seen global shipments of true wireless earbuds surpass 500 million units annually, according to industry trackers like Counterpoint Research. Open-ear variants, though a smaller segment, are projected to grow at a 25% compound annual rate through 2030, driven by health and fitness applications.
While the features sound promising, some early reactions from CES attendees have pointed to potential trade-offs. For instance, the lack of active noise cancellation in these open designs means they won't suit users in very loud environments, like urban subways. JBL officials acknowledged this in their briefing, saying, 'Our goal is to balance immersive audio with real-world awareness, not to replace sealed earbuds entirely.' This positions the products more as complementary rather than direct rivals to noise-isolating options.
Availability begins in March 2026 across major retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy, and JBL's own website, with pre-orders likely to open soon after CES wraps up. The timing coincides with the spring fitness season, potentially boosting adoption among active users. For the Soundgear Clips in particular, their clip-on form factor could appeal to those tired of traditional ear hooks, offering a novel alternative that's been compared to bone-conduction headphones but with fuller sound profiles.
Looking ahead, this release could signal more innovations from JBL in the open-ear space, especially as Bluetooth 6.0 in the Sense Pro brings future-proofing with better range and efficiency. Industry observers suggest that AI enhancements, like the call quality algorithms, will become standard, pushing competitors to respond. As CES 2026 continues to unfold, JBL's announcements remind us how personal audio is evolving to fit seamlessly into daily life, blending technology with practicality.
In the broader context of consumer electronics, these earbuds arrive at a time when audio personalization is key, with apps like JBL's allowing touch control customization for volume, playback, and more. Whether for calls, music, or podcasts, the lineup caters to diverse needs, from audiophiles drawn to hi-res capabilities to casual listeners prioritizing affordability and style.
Ultimately, JBL's push into open-ear audio underscores a market shift toward devices that enhance rather than isolate, potentially reshaping how we experience sound in an increasingly connected world. With detailed specs and competitive pricing now public, consumers have much to consider as March approaches.