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Yes—Xiaomi Bone Conduction Headphones 2 are designed for underwater swimming. The China-launched headset combines an open-ear bone-conduction design with a dedicated Swim Mode, 32GB of internal storage, local music playback, claimed IP68 protection, and swim-tracking features developed with Suunto.

However, this is not a confirmed global or U.S. product. Xiaomi announced sales in China on July 21, 2025, at 699 yuan—approximately $97 at the time. Buyers elsewhere should account for import costs, warranty limitations, software support, and returns before treating that launch price as a bargain.

What Xiaomi Bone Conduction Headphones 2 actually are

Xiaomi Bone Conduction Headphones 2 (小米骨传导耳机 2) are open-ear, wraparound headphones rather than conventional in-ear earbuds. Their transducers sit against the cheekbones and send vibrations through the skull to the inner ear, leaving the ear canals open.

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That design is useful in the pool because it does not depend on an earbud seal or air-based sound transmission. More importantly, the headset includes onboard storage, so it can play music without maintaining a connection to a phone underwater.

Xiaomi announced the product in China in July 2025, with reported sales beginning July 21 through JD.com and other Chinese retail channels. The launch price was 699 yuan. Xiaomi’s official announcement is available through its Smart Ecology Weibo account, while launch specifications were reported by GizmoChina and IT Home.

No official U.S. or broader international launch was verified. A marketplace listing should not be assumed to represent Xiaomi’s official local distribution or warranty support.

Why swimming headphones need a different approach

Bluetooth is not a dependable underwater audio connection. Water significantly limits radio transmission, and the swimmer’s body and pool water can separate the headset from a phone sitting on the pool deck. A phone streaming Spotify or Apple Music normally will not continue reliably through a full set of laps.

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Dedicated swimming headphones solve that problem with local playback. Music files are transferred to the headset before a swim, then played from internal storage while the swimmer is in the water. Xiaomi’s second-generation model reportedly supports Bluetooth for above-water use and local playback for swimming.

Bone conduction keeps the ear canal open and can remain audible underwater when the headset is properly waterproofed. It is not equivalent to premium in-ear audio: bass and detail may be reduced, and the sound can feel more vibrational. H2O Audio’s explanation of underwater bone conduction and Shokz’s OpenSwim product describe the same basic principle.

Key features

  • 32GB internal storage: intended for phone-free local music playback.
  • Swim Mode: a dedicated operating mode for underwater use.
  • Reported swim metrics: pace, distance, lap count, swim duration, stroke-related information, and breathing angle.
  • Suunto collaboration: Xiaomi says the swimming algorithms were developed with Suunto.
  • Claimed IP68 protection: Chinese product coverage reports submersion to approximately 5 meters for up to 2 hours.
  • Reported audio support: MP3, FLAC, WAV, AAC, M4A, and APE.
  • Physical controls: playback and track-switching controls designed to be used without a phone.
  • Dual microphones with ENC: intended to reduce noise during calls or above-water use.
  • Construction: titanium-alloy frame, silicone contact surfaces, and 24.4 × 14.45 mm transducer units.
  • Colors: black and white options were reported.

The reported battery rating is up to 12 hours, but that is a maximum claim rather than a verified swim-session result. Runtime will vary with volume, playback mode, microphone use, temperature, and battery age. The exact charging connector should be confirmed from Xiaomi’s regional documentation before buying; the available launch reports do not establish it reliably.

Rank #2
Gelecek New Waterproof Open-Ear Bone Conduction Headphones - Bluetooth 6.0, 10-Hour Battery Life, Ultra-Light Wireless Headset with Stable Connection, Ideal for Running, Cycling, Workout, Hiking
  • Innovative Open-Ear Bone Conduction Technology for Healthy & Safe Wearing Adopting the bone conduction sound principle, there is no need to insert the earbuds into the ear canal to block your ears, avoiding damage to the inner ear and eardrum caused by long-time wearing, which is especially suitable for people with sensitive ear canals. You can clearly perceive ambient sounds such as car horns and human voices while enjoying music during exercise, which can effectively avoid risks when running or cycling at night, and there will be no swelling pain or stuffy discomfort in the ear canal even if you wear it for a long time in daily use.
  • Brand New Bluetooth 6.0 Chip for Stable Connection Without Interruption Equipped with the new generation of Bluetooth 6.0 technology, it has longer signal transmission distance and stronger anti-interference ability. It can maintain a stable connection even in crowded business districts and outdoors with complex road conditions, no lag or disconnection. Whether you are doing workout weightlifting or outdoor hiking, you can enjoy a smooth and coherent audio experience.
  • 10-Hour Battery Life to Meet Usage Needs of All Scenarios Built-in large-capacity low-power battery, a single full charge can support 10 hours of continuous music playback/HD calls, no need to charge frequently for short or long-distance outdoor sports. It can easily meet the usage needs of full-day hiking on weekends, multi-period cycling training, and commuting plus evening exercise on working days, no need to worry about sudden power failure interrupting your using rhythm.
  • High-level Waterproof Performance + Ultra-Light Body, No Burden for Sports Wearing With professional waterproof performance, it can easily resist heavy sweat during exercise and sudden light rain splashes outdoors, which is fully suitable for high-sweat sports scenarios such as running and workout. The whole machine adopts ultra-light design, the weight is much lower than ordinary Bluetooth headsets, you will barely feel its existence after wearing. The ear-hook structure is stable and not easy to fall off, and it will not shift or slip even during strenuous exercise.
  • Multi-scenario Adaptation to Meet the Needs of Various Sports Designed specifically for sports enthusiasts, it is suitable for various outdoor sports and indoor training scenarios such as running, cycling, workout, hiking, etc. The ear-hook wearing is stable, and the open-ear design takes into account both audio listening and environmental safety. Whether it is daily commuting, urban road running, mountain cycling or suburban hiking, it can bring you a comfortable and convenient using experience.

How to use them underwater

The practical workflow should be straightforward, although Xiaomi’s exact transfer software and menu labels were not confirmed in the available documentation:

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  1. Transfer compatible local music files to the headset’s internal storage.
  2. Pair by Bluetooth for normal above-water listening if desired.
  3. Switch to local playback and select Swim Mode before entering the water.
  4. Use the physical controls to manage playback during the session.
  5. Rinse away pool or seawater residue with fresh water, allow the headset to dry completely, and only then charge it.

Do not assume that a subscription download from Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, or another streaming service can be copied to the headset. Xiaomi’s reported format support refers to local files, not confirmed underwater streaming-service compatibility.

What IP68 does—and does not—mean

IP68 indicates dust protection and resistance to water ingress under specified test conditions. It does not mean unlimited depth, diving certification, or immunity from damage caused by chlorine, salt water, impact, or aging seals.

Chinese launch coverage reports Xiaomi’s product-specific claim of roughly 5 meters for up to 2 hours. That is more useful than the IP code alone, but it remains a manufacturer or listing claim rather than independently verified testing in the available sources.

Pool swimmers should still rinse the headset after use and dry it before charging. Salt water, chlorine, soap, repeated flexing, drops, cracks, and residue around charging contacts can shorten the life of water-resistant electronics. The rating should not be interpreted as approval for scuba diving, high-pressure water, or unlimited underwater use.

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Swim tracking is promising, not proven

The Suunto connection and claimed metrics are among the product’s most interesting features. Xiaomi-related coverage says the headset can track information such as pace, distance, laps, duration, stroke-related data, and breathing angle.

Rank #3
SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 Bone Conduction Bluetooth Sport Headphones, Black
  • Unparalleled Audio and Premium sound - Dual drivers combine the clear highs of Bone Conduction Tech with the deep bass of Air Conduction Tech for 12 hours of powerful, 3D audio.Perfect for musical motivation during workouts and runs.
  • Open-Ear Awareness - SHOKZ's signature open-ear design helps you power through your workouts while keeping you safely aware of your surroundings. Leak-free listening ensures your audio remains for your ears only
  • Secure Stable, Lightweight Fit - The weight-optimized design of this unibody frame integrates a Ni-Ti alloy memory wire and ergonomic ear hooks. The result is a secure, comfortable fit that defies slips and shift even during gym sessions or cycling.
  • Dedicated EQ Modes - Customize your audio experience with our dedicated EQ modes on the Shokz App. Enjoy pure bone conduction sound with the newly launched Classic Mode, or boost your audio in noisy environments with Volume Boost Mode.
  • Crystal-Clear Calls - Strategically positioned dual wind-resistant microphones and an AI noise reduction algorithm filter out 96.5% of background noise, including wind at speeds of up to 15 miles per hour.

That does not establish that the readings match a Garmin, Apple Watch, or Suunto sports watch. The available evidence does not independently verify accuracy, explain every supported stroke, confirm how unusual turns affect detection, or establish whether the metrics work in open water as well as in a pool.

Buyers should also confirm where the data appears—on the headset, in a Xiaomi app, or on another paired device—before purchase. A feature list is not the same as sports-watch-grade measurement.

Price, availability, and import risk

The reported China launch price was 699 yuan, approximately $97 at the time. That is a historical conversion, not a current U.S. retail price. The true cost for an overseas buyer may include shipping, taxes, import fees, seller markup, currency conversion, and expensive returns.

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Importers may also face Chinese-language packaging or software, region-limited firmware, uncertain app support, no official local warranty, and difficulty obtaining replacement charging accessories. A third-party marketplace listing does not resolve those risks; the Walmart listing identified in launch coverage is sold and shipped by a third-party seller and does not establish official Xiaomi U.S. support.

How Xiaomi compares with established alternatives

Product Best for Important difference
Xiaomi Bone Conduction Headphones 2 China-based buyers and experienced importers 32GB storage, Swim Mode, claimed Suunto-linked metrics, China-first availability
Shokz OpenSwim Simple swim-only playback MP3-only, IP68, up to 8 hours, official price shown at $149.95 during the source review
Shokz OpenSwim Pro Bluetooth on land plus swimming playback Bluetooth and onboard storage, IP68, official U.S. price shown at $229.95
H2O Audio TRI 2 Serious swimmers and triathletes Advertised to 12 feet/3.6 meters with unlimited-duration waterproofing claims for the TRI 2 line
H2O Audio SONAR 2 PRO App-assisted swim audio 8GB storage, built-in MP3 player, Playlist+ features, and a more developed swim-audio ecosystem
Zygo Z2 Streaming-oriented swimmers Uses an external system rather than relying solely on onboard MP3 storage; see TechRadar’s review

Shokz and H2O Audio cost more than Xiaomi’s Chinese launch price, but their official international sales channels, warranty information, and returns are clearer for many buyers. Their products still require local music playback underwater unless a model uses a separate waterproof streaming system.

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Who should buy Xiaomi Bone Conduction Headphones 2?

They make the most sense for China-based swimmers who can buy through a supported channel, want substantial onboard storage, and are interested in the claimed swim metrics.

Rank #4
Sale
PSIER Bone Conduction Headphones, IPX8 Waterproof MP3 Mode for Underwater
  • Bluetooth + MP3 Modes: Underwater headphones with Bluetooth 6.0 ensure ultra-low transmission latency, significantly enhancing the music experience. Users can connect two or more devices. Allows for seamless switching between devices. Or enjoy a phone-free experience with 32GB internal MP3 storage for up to 4,000 songs. Easily switch between Bluetooth and MP3 mode with a double click. MP3 mode supports downloaded audio files in MP3, WMA, FLAC, APE and WAV formats.
  • IPX8 Waterproof for All-Weather Use: The waterproof bone conduction headphones have a certified IPX8 waterproof rating and can be submerged in water up to two meters deep for one hour. Switching to MP3 mode and listening to your favorite songs makes swimming and other underwater activities much more interesting. These open ear headphones feature a fully sealed coating, so you don't have to worry about underwater use. (Note: Please switch to MP3 mode when in water, as Bluetooth mode cannot connect underwater.)
  • Open-Ear Comfort & Stable Wear: Stay alert with open ear bone conduction headphones that let you hear your surroundings, eliminating worries about missing out on crucial sounds. Soft, skin-friendly silicone cushions on the front of the ears provide a gentle touch and secure fit. The open-ear design allows for airflow, making them more comfortable to wear for extended periods. Product package includes an adjustable strap to accommodate different head sizes.
  • 8 Hours of Music & Download: The waterproof headphones deliver up to 8 hours of continuous playtime (Bluetooth mode). With fast magnetic charging capability, you can achieve a full charge in just 2 hours. Connect the magnetic charging cable to a computer to access the built-in storage, copy songs from your computer to the headphones, and download them.
  • Outstanding Sound for Bone Conduction Earbuds: True bone conduction technology paired with a 14mm driver delivers rich, full-bodied sound, enhancing your listening experience. The built-in microphone and wireless Bluetooth connectivity ensure crystal-clear calls, providing a clear, smooth, and interference-free calling experience whether you’re at work or chatting with friends.

They may suit experienced importers who accept uncertainty around warranty, language, firmware, accessories, and returns. The 699-yuan launch price should be judged only after calculating the complete landed cost.

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They are a poor choice for many U.S. buyers who need local warranty service, straightforward returns, confirmed English-language support, or a known retail channel. Shokz or H2O Audio is safer when ownership support matters more than the lowest headline price.

Runners and cyclists who never swim should look elsewhere. Bone-conduction headphones can be useful for land-based awareness, but paying for swim storage and water protection is unnecessary if underwater playback is not part of the use case.

Verdict

Xiaomi Bone Conduction Headphones 2 are a genuine swim-focused product, not ordinary open-ear workout headphones with a superficial water-resistance claim. The combination of local playback, 32GB storage, Swim Mode, and claimed swim tracking directly addresses the problems swimmers face underwater.

The caution is availability and evidence. Xiaomi’s Chinese launch is established, but a global or U.S. release was not verified; swim-metric accuracy has not been independently demonstrated; and the 5-meter, 2-hour and 12-hour figures remain manufacturer or listing claims. For China-based buyers, the headset could be compelling value. For international buyers who want dependable support, established alternatives remain the safer purchase.

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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.