C-bridge wraps over ear with listening ball near canal, showcasing Clip Pro earbuds features.

CMF Unveils Clip Pro Earbuds with Smart Dial and Custom Audio for $99

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Written by Seth Sebastian

2026-08-07

Design with substance

On August 4, CMF unveiled the Clip Pro earbuds at an accessible $99, redefining open-ear listening with a keen focus on design and functionality. Emerging as a sub-brand under Nothing, CMF introduces a fresh tactile interaction with music, marking a notable shift from traditional in-ear solutions.

Bold design choices

CMF, under the leadership of Carl Pei, strives to make Nothing’s aesthetic more affordable without compromising its signature style. The Clip Pro stands as the first venture into open-ear buds with colors like Dark Grey, Light Grey, and Coral, showcasing CMF’s commitment to detail and innovation.

Elastic titanium wire in the earbud bridge flexes to evenly distribute pressure on ear.
The elastic titanium wire core runs through the bridge, flexing to distribute pressure across the ear

Innovative fit and comfort

The Clip Pro employs the OpenFit Arc system to cradle the outer ear using a flexible titanium wire C-bridge, easing strain and ensuring lasting comfort. This ingenious design prevents the discomfort often associated with long-term use of clip-style earbuds.

Smart Dial with ridged edge for grip is flush on the earbud case lid for control.
The Smart Dial sits flush on the case lid, its ridged edge giving it grip for volume and playback control

Enhanced audio technology

Equipped with a 10.8mm dual-magnet driver within a 13.8mm “listening ball,” the Clip Pro ensures a direct audio path. Despite the openness, bass is enriched through Ultra Bass Technology, and users enjoy support for advanced audio codecs like LDAC, AAC, and SBC, rarely available in this price range.

HD microphone positioned behind perforated mesh designed for wind resistance in the earbud.
One of the four HD microphones sits behind a perforated mesh built for wind resistance

Clear communication

Four HD microphones bolster voice clarity, especially in windy conditions, through CMF’s VPU-powered Clear Voice Technology. Add to this the Sound Seal system, and both music and calls maintain privacy and integrity despite the openness.

Earbud clip uses three-point support to secure in place without excessive pressure on ear.
The clip’s three-point support keeps the earbud in place without pressing into a single spot on the ear

Clip Pro Earbuds with Intuitive Controls

The central feature is the Smart Dial — a tactile control embedded in the case that allows effortless adjustment of volume, tracks, and calls. This physical interface echoes the tactile nature of classic devices, offering a break from touch panels.

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Earbuds angle into the case with listening balls outward, ensuring secure fit and easy access.
The earbuds cross into the case at an angle, with the listening ball facing outward on each side

Remarkable battery life and connectivity

Boasting a 10-hour life per charge, extended to 36 hours with the case, the Clip Pro is tailored for extended use. Features like Bluetooth 5.4, low-latency gaming mode, and compatibility with both Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair enhance usability. An IP54 rating ensures resilience against dust and light splashes.

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Smart Dial features brushed metal finish contrasting with matte case body, available in three colors.
The Smart Dial’s brushed metal finish contrasts with the matte case body across all three colors

A modern classic

The Clip Pro doesn’t chase specs; it reshapes them. Competing with higher-priced models while delivering Hi-Res audio and innovative controls, it’s a testament to CMF’s philosophy — making smart design accessible. At the heart of this experience is the dial, a nostalgic nod that grounds cutting-edge technology in reassuring familiarity.

C-bridge fits behind ear while listening ball directs sound towards canal from outside.
The C-bridge tucks behind the ear while the listening ball projects sound toward the canal from outside

Sources & Links

Source: urdesignmag.com

Frequently asked questions

What is the price of CMF Clip Pro earbuds?

The Clip Pro earbuds are priced at $99.

What colors are available for Clip Pro earbuds?

The Clip Pro earbuds are available in Dark Grey, Light Grey, and Coral.

How long can Clip Pro earbuds last per charge?

The Clip Pro earbuds can last 10 hours per charge, extended to 36 hours with the case.