1MORE S20 Ultra Brings LDAC to Open-Ear Clips

1MORE has introduced the S20 Ultra, a pair of open-ear clip-on earbuds aimed at listeners who want environmental awareness without giving up higher-quality wireless audio. The $79.99 model combines LDAC, a three-magnet acoustic system, directional sound control, four-microphone calling, Bluetooth 6.0, and up to 40 hours of total playback. It is a broad feature set for commuters, office users, runners, and anyone who finds sealed in-ear tips uncomfortable.

Open-ear audio gets a more ambitious driver system

The S20 Ultra uses a three-magnet speaker architecture that 1MORE says improves bass depth, midrange accuracy, and treble clarity. More important for Android users is LDAC support alongside Hi-Res Wireless certification. LDAC can carry more audio data than basic Bluetooth codecs, although the listening result will still depend on the source device, connection conditions, recording quality, and the inherently open design.

A 360-degree panoramic surround mode is included for a wider, more enveloping presentation. This processing may suit films and casual entertainment, but listeners who prefer a conventional stereo image may want to compare it with the standard sound mode in the companion app.

Directional sound addresses a familiar open-ear weakness

Open-ear earbuds sit outside the ear canal, making them useful when awareness of traffic, announcements, or nearby people matters. The tradeoff is that bass can feel less concentrated and nearby people may hear more of the audio. The S20 Ultra counters this with SDT Sound Focusing 2.0, which directs sound toward the ear to reduce leakage and the distant “mini speaker” effect.

This technology is promising for quieter offices and public transport, but it should not be confused with active noise cancellation. The ear remains open, so outside sound is intentionally allowed through. Buyers wanting strong isolation for aircraft cabins or loud commutes may still be better served by sealed earbuds with ANC.

A lighter clip built for long sessions

The C-shaped clip combines nickel-titanium memory wire with an ergonomic micro-in-ear design. According to the company, the structure was tested for 10,000 bends and provides a 40% stability improvement. BalanceAIR+ 3.0 uses an air-cushion chamber to spread pressure around the ear, while a breathable material and a claimed 60% weight reduction versus traditional ear-clip products are intended to improve all-day comfort.

Those claims make the S20 Ultra relevant to glasses wearers and active users, but ear shapes vary considerably. Clip pressure and positioning will therefore remain personal factors. IPX5 water resistance adds protection against sweat and splashes for running or gym sessions, but no dust rating or submersion protection is specified.

Calls, battery life, and daily connectivity

A four-microphone ENC system separates speech from environmental and wind noise for calls. Battery life is rated at up to 8.5 hours per charge and up to 40 hours with the case, enough on paper for several commuting days. Bluetooth 6.0 is used for stable, low-latency transmission, while dual-device switching should help users move between a phone and computer.

The 1MORE app adds earbud finding and customized sound adjustment. The 1MORE S20 Ultra is available globally through authorized channels at a suggested retail price of $79.99, with a 20% introductory discount during its first 30 days. That places it as an accessible feature-heavy option rather than a stripped-down sports clip, though real-world sound leakage, call performance, and fit will need independent testing. More details are available from 1MORE.