Xiaomi Teases New Open-Ear Earbuds and Redmi Headphones Neo for May Launch
Xiaomi NewsWednesday, 13 May 2026 at 09:25
Xiaomi is expanding its audio lineup alongside the 17 Max. Two new products are confirmed for May: a new open-ear earclip model from Xiaomi — the brand's first in this specific clip-style format — and the Redmi Headphones Neo, Redmi's first-ever over-ear headphones. Both launch in the same window as the 17 Max.
A busy May just got busier.
Key Points
- Xiaomi confirmed a new open-ear earclip model launching alongside the Xiaomi 17 Max in May — a new form factor for the brand, distinct from the existing OpenWear Stereo Pro
- The earclip design uses an ear-hook rather than in-ear or over-ear fit — prioritising comfort and ambient awareness for extended wear
- Redmi Headphones Neo confirmed as Redmi's first over-ear headphones — 40mm titanium-coated drivers, 42dB ANC with 3-level adjustment, and 72-hour battery with ANC off
- Redmi Headphones Neo uses Bluetooth 5.4, supports Google Fast Pair, dual-device connection, USB Audio with Hi-Res certification, and connects to the Xiaomi Earbuds app
- Both products are part of a broader Xiaomi audio push alongside the 17 Max — Redmi Headphones Neo coming in Obsidian Black and Sand White at launch, Mist Blue following in September
The Open-Ear Earclip Is a New Direction
Xiaomi already offers the OpenWear Stereo Pro — a clip-style open-ear product launched globally in September 2025 — and open-back earphones from 2024. The new earclip model launching with the 17 Max appears to be a distinct product in this category, with specific design choices around the ear-hook form factor that separates it from the OpenWear lineup.
Open-ear and earclip designs sit in a fast-growing segment. Shokz, Samsung, and Huawei have all pushed into this space over the past year. The earclip format keeps ears unblocked — useful for runners, commuters, and office workers who need situational awareness without sacrificing audio quality. Xiaomi's play here is ecosystem completeness: a device for every listening context, not just a hero product.
Specific specs for the new earclip model haven't been confirmed yet — those will surface at or before the 17 Max announcement.
Redmi Headphones Neo — Over-Ear at a Budget Price
The Redmi Headphones Neo is the more fully detailed of the two products. Online store listings in the Philippines confirm a 40mm titanium-coated dynamic driver system covering 20Hz-40kHz, 42dB adaptive ANC with three adjustable depth levels, Hi-Res certification via USB Audio, and a 600mAh battery rated for 72 hours without ANC. A 10-minute quick charge delivers five hours of playback.
At PHP3,299 (~RM215) based on Philippine listings — roughly $57 — the Neo positions itself firmly in the budget over-ear bracket. For Redmi buyers who want over-ear noise cancellation without spending Sony or Bose prices, the 42dB ANC figure and 72-hour endurance are strong opening arguments.
The Xiaomi Earbuds app integration enables EQ customisation, device status checking, and location finding — standard ecosystem features that tie the Neo into the broader Xiaomi audio platform.
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