(March 16, 2026) Cleer Audio has introduced the ARC 5, a new entry in its open ear wireless lineup. Arriving as a successor to the company’s ARC 3, this latest design aims to refine the open-ear concept by improving spatial audio capabilities, ergonomics, and user interface design. While the ARC 3 established Cleer’s approach to situational awareness listening, the ARC 5 takes premium concepts further with THX certification, Dolby Atmos optimization, and a redesigned form factor intended to improve both comfort and sound projection.
One of the most significant additions is THX Headphone Certification paired with THX Spatial Audio and head tracking. Together, these technologies aim to create a dynamic 3D soundstage where audio appears fixed in space and adjusts naturally as the listener moves their head. Cleer has also optimized the earbuds for Dolby Atmos playback and incorporated Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound support with aptX Lossless wireless audio, positioning the ARC 5 as a device capable of handling Hi-Res streaming and spatial media formats.
Physically, the ARC 5 introduces a thinner ear hook and a lighter chassis, with each earbud weighing a feathery 11.5 grams. Cleer also redesigned the acoustic structure that positions the driver relative to the ear, a change intended to improve clarity, stereo imaging, and sound projection while maintaining an open-ear listening experience. The result, says Cleer, is a sleeker profile that’s designed to remain stable during workouts, commuting, or long listening sessions.
The new model also expands the role of the charging case, featuring an AMOLED HD touchscreen that lets users control playback, adjust EQ settings, monitor battery status, and access other functions directly from the case. The case also includes UV-C sterilization and supports fast charging, with Cleer claiming up to two hours of playback from just five minutes of charging. Total battery life across the earbuds and case is rated at up to – get this – 60 hours!
Additional features include Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint connectivity for switching between devices, IPX7 waterproof protection for workouts and outdoor use, and dual ENC microphones for clear voice pickup in noisy environments. Sound tuning is further supported by Cleer’s DBE 4.0 Dynamic Bass Enhancement and Hi-Res Audio support rated from 65 Hz to 40 kHz.
“ARC 5 represents a major leap forward in open-ear audio,” said Hideaki Yamaguchi (Yama), CEO of Cleer Audio Americas. “By combining THX® Certification and THX® Spatial Audio with improved ergonomic design, a thinner hook, lighter weight, an HD Touchscreen Smart Case, and so many advanced features, we’ve created earbuds that deliver immersive cinematic audio, unmatched comfort, and exceptional value—all while keeping users aware of their surroundings.”
Cleer’s ARC 5 is available now in black or white with a suggested retail price of $219.99 through CleerAudio.com and authorized dealers.
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