Surprise! The Chic Ear Cuffs Fashion People Are Wearing Are Actually a Tech Accessory

We’re firmly in our wearable-tech era, and the newly-launched Huawei FreeClip 2 earbuds clearly optimise outfits rather than detract from them. At first glance, they’re easily mistaken for cool sculptural ear cuffs—the kind you can wear as a single or a pair—upgrading any look and sparking compliments 24/7.

Tech accessories have certainly come a long way, aesthetically speaking. The first generation of clean and minimalist wireless earbuds was derided as looking like cotton buds or electric toothbrush heads, and until now, design developments have been relatively minimal. I’m unbothered about the current wired-versus-wireless earphone debate, because what’s important is this: everyday tech should be working harder and smarter as bona fide fashion accessories in 2026. Fashion people shouldn’t have to choose between function and form.

Huawei completely revolutionised how we listen to our favourite playlists by creating a signature open-ear design in 2023, and the FreeClip 2 is even lighter and more intuitive. The connecting C-bridge element curves comfortably around the ear, clipping the Comfort Bean securely to the back and dotting the soft Acoustics Ball (where the sound comes out) on the front, where a conch ear piercing would typically sit. When it comes to the case (the earbuds overlap inside to symbolise limitless listening), which delivers 38 hours of continuous playback fully charged, it’s compact enough to fit inside your smallest bag and mirrors the texture of a classic pair of denim jeans.

Without the weight of traditional audio headphones or any dangling cables, the smooth metallic spheres are barely-there but—vitally—are designed to stay put, however your day unfolds. They’ll even stay in place through the most vigorous of workouts. With nine full hours of continuous playback plus added sweat and dust resistance, there’s no real need to remove your FreeClip 2 earbuds during the day. When the sound’s off, it makes sense that someone would assume you’re wearing earrings, especially when the available colourways are viral shades we’ve spotted on stylish women in different cities. Depending on your style, there’s a fail-safe glossy black, a baby blue that isn’t a million miles away from the icy-blue tone that’s currently making waves, and a bright white available now, plus a gorgeous rose gold coming soon. Huawei has also partnered with French jewellery designer, Les Néréides, to create beautiful clip-on charms that transform and personalise your earbuds.

On to the big question: how does the FreeClip 2 sound? The lack of noise cancellation is a deliberate innovation that doesn’t actually affect the crisp clarity, excellent quality or powerful bass of the podcasts, songs or videos you queue up, or your phone calls, according to impressed tech reviewers on social media. Because you’re not completely tuned out but still connected when wearing these earbuds, you can have in-person conversations and be present at work, plus the ability to stay alert whilst navigating busy roads on a bike is a godsend. The volume automatically adjusts to your surroundings, and what I love most about them is how they playfully respond to your gestures. A nod answers a call, a headshake rejects one, and ongoing calls can be ended with a double-tap. In other words, your device doesn’t have to leave your bag.

Honestly, other earbuds just don’t compare to the Huawei FreeClip 2 based on any success metrics. Raising standards and exceeding expectations yet again, these stylish multitasking earbuds sync with the wider hybrid fashion moment too, without seeming too try-hard.

Shop Huawei FreeClip 2:

Huawei FreeClip 2 is available to order from 21/01/2026 from the Huawei store for £179.99 in blue, white, and black, with rose gold coming soon. Until 01/03/2026, customers can claim an exclusive £20 launch coupon and 12 months Loss Care alongside 10x Huawei Reward Points to use with their next purchase. Also available now is a special-edition package containing x2 FreeClip 2 and one pair of stylish Les Néréides earbud accessories (worth up to £80), for a total of £319 (saving up to £120).