Bluetooth SIG Certification Signals an Imminent Launch
If you’ve been keeping an eye on open-ear audio, you’ll be thrilled to know that Xiaomi’s latest OpenWear Stereo Pro has just received its seal of approval from the Bluetooth SIG. This crucial green light follows approvals from the FCC in the US and CMIIT in China, strongly hinting that Xiaomi is gearing up for a formal launch any day now. For fans of the open-ear trend, the Pro model promises a more refined experience compared to the original OpenWear Stereo.
Open-ear earbuds are tricky: they let you stay aware of your surroundings while you jam out, but they often sacrifice audio quality or comfort in the process. Xiaomi’s first attempt turned heads for its innovative design but left audiophiles wanting more. With Bluetooth SIG on board, we’re now confident the company is ready to roll out improvements that could push its open-ear concept to mainstream success.
Tech Specs Sneak Peek: Battery, Charging, and Bluetooth
The FCC filing spills the beans on some juicy technical details. Xiaomi has kept the 788 mAh charging case battery from the standard model, which is more than generous for a pair of open-ear buds. The case supports 6 W fast charging, so you can top up quickly between listening sessions. Inside the buds themselves, you’ll find 56 mAh cells—identical to the original—promising around 7 to 7.5 hours of continuous playtime per charge and a combined total of roughly 38.5 hours with the case in tow.
Perhaps most importantly, the Pro edition retains Bluetooth Low Energy compatibility for a rock-steady connection and extended battery life on your phone or tablet. There’s no word yet on supported codecs, but if Xiaomi follows industry trends, we might see SBC and AAC at a minimum, and possibly AptX or LDAC for higher-fidelity streaming.
Pro Model Upgrades: Audio and Software Enhancements
So, what makes the Pro truly “Pro”? Xiaomi’s documentation doesn’t spell out every detail, but the rumor mill suggests a beefed-up sound profile with richer mids and more powerful bass response. The original model was criticized for thin treble and limited dynamic range, so Xiaomi is likely to introduce tuned drivers or updated acoustic chambers to deliver fuller, more balanced audio without compromising the open-ear design.
On the software side, fans expect advanced features like a fully customizable equalizer, stronger active noise reduction (even in an open-ear form factor), and deeper integration with Xiaomi’s HyperOS ecosystem. Imagine switching seamlessly between your Xiaomi smartphone, tablet, and smart TV, or customizing sound presets based on your environment. Whether it’s boosting dialogue during a podcast or dialing in extra lows for your workout playlist, these software tweaks could be what elevates the OpenWear Stereo Pro above its competitors.
Market Competition: How Xiaomi Stacks Up
The open-ear market is noisier than ever. Honor’s Earbuds Open set a high bar for comfort and audio clarity, while Bose Ultra Open Earbuds bring premium ANC and a signature sound. Then there’s Huawei’s FreeArc, Sony’s LinkBuds Open, and Nothing’s Ear (Open)—each with its own spin on transparency and sound engineering. Xiaomi must carve out a niche by combining competitive pricing with standout performance.
Xiaomi’s strategy often hinges on offering high-end features at midrange prices. If the OpenWear Stereo Pro can deliver on improved audio, respectable fit, and smart software upgrades without breaking the bank, it could become the go-to choice for budget-conscious listeners. The brand’s existing ecosystem also gives it an advantage: users invested in Xiaomi’s smartphones, tablets, or smart home gear will appreciate tight integration and unified controls across devices.
When and Where: Release Window and Availability
All signs point to a Chinese launch in June or July, though Xiaomi hasn’t confirmed exact dates. Industry insiders speculate that the company may unveil the OpenWear Stereo Pro alongside other anticipated products, like the Redmi K80 Ultra smartphone and a Redmi gaming tablet. This kind of event could generate serious buzz and attract attention beyond China’s borders.
As for international availability, Xiaomi remains mum. In the past, the brand has used global product launches and tech expos to announce overseas rollouts. If you’re eager to get your hands on the OpenWear Stereo Pro, keep an eye on Xiaomi’s official channels and major tech events later this summer. In the meantime, you can join early adopters in China to scope out initial reviews and real-world impressions.