Sony’s latest audio experiment blurs the line between gadget and jewelry. The new LinkBuds Clip looks like a sculpted ear‑cuff, hugging the outer ear without sealing your ear canal. Instead of isolating you from the world, this open‑ear design lets ambient sound mix naturally with your music and calls so you can stay aware of your surroundings.

The C‑shaped clip uses a springy fit and tapered arms to keep the tiny driver in place while allowing plenty of airflow. Tap gestures cycle through three listening modes—Standard, Voice Boost, and Sound Leakage Reduction—so you can tweak the balance between what you hear and how much you share. Audio quality comes courtesy of Sony’s Integrated Processor V1 with DSEE upscaling and a customizable 10‑band EQ, while a bone‑conduction sensor and AI noise reduction sharpen your calls.

The buds are IPX4 water‑resistant, last up to 9 hours per charge with 28 more in the case, and quick‑charge to an hour of playback in three minutes. Packaging is plastic‑free and uses recycled materials, and the LinkBuds Clip comes in several colors at $229.99.

The concept follows the company’s earlier LinkBuds releases—earbuds that favored awareness over isolation. Our coverage of the previous LinkBuds family expansion showed how Sony is experimenting with new form factors like rings, buds and even speakers. The LinkBuds Clip continues that exploration with a design that’s equal parts conversation starter and functional audio gear.

For anyone who wants to hear their music, their friends and the city around them at the same time, this ear‑cuff may become the most fashionable piece of tech in their collection.