SHOKZ Appoints Nine Naphat as First Brand Ambassador in Thailand Highlighting 3 Must-Have Models

Shokz has appointed actor Nine Naphat as its first brand ambassador in Thailand, marking a strategic expansion of the audio company’s presence in the Southeast Asian market. The partnership is designed to promote the brand’s open-ear audio technology, focusing on users who prioritize situational awareness and an active lifestyle.

The move signals a push to move beyond traditional ear-plugging headphones, positioning open-ear designs as a healthier and safer alternative for athletes and daily commuters. By leveraging a high-profile ambassador, Shokz aims to increase the visibility of its diverse product lineup, which spans both bone conduction and air conduction technologies.

The Shift to Open-Ear Audio Technology

At the core of the announcement is the promotion of open-ear audio, a design philosophy that allows users to hear their audio while remaining fully aware of their surrounding environment. Unlike traditional earbuds or over-ear headphones that create a seal in or over the ear, open-ear devices leave the ear canal unobstructed.

This technology is particularly relevant for outdoor activities where safety is paramount, such as running or cycling, as it prevents the “occlusion effect”—the muffled sensation of one’s own voice and the loss of ambient sounds like approaching vehicles. Shokz utilizes two primary methods to achieve this: bone conduction and air conduction.

Bone conduction works by sending vibrations through the cheekbones directly to the inner ear (cochlea), bypassing the eardrum entirely. Air conduction, used in other models, employs directional speakers that project sound into the ear canal without physically plugging it.

Featured Hardware: Three Key Models

As part of the brand’s push in Thailand, Shokz has highlighted three specific models that cater to different user needs: the OpenRun Pro 2, the OpenFit Pro, and the OpenDots One.

The OpenRun Pro 2 represents the brand’s flagship bone conduction offering. Designed specifically for sports and high-intensity workouts, it uses a wrap-around titanium frame to ensure a secure fit during movement. This model is engineered for those who require maximum stability and the ability to hear environmental cues while listening to audio.

In contrast, the OpenFit Pro utilizes air conduction technology. These are open-ear earbuds that sit just outside the ear canal, offering a balance between audio quality and openness. A key technical feature of the OpenFit Pro is the integration of noise reduction capabilities, allowing for clearer communication and audio playback even in moderately noisy environments without sacrificing the open-ear benefit.

The third highlighted model, the OpenDots One, introduces a clip-on design. This form factor deviates from the traditional ear-hook or wrap-around style, utilizing a clip that attaches to the outer edge of the ear. This design is targeted toward daily wear and lifestyle use, providing a more discreet aesthetic while maintaining the core open-ear functionality.

Market Positioning and User Impact

The introduction of a dedicated brand ambassador in Thailand suggests that Shokz is targeting a broader demographic beyond hardcore athletes. By diversifying its hardware—from the rugged OpenRun Pro 2 to the fashion-forward OpenDots One—the company is positioning open-ear audio as a versatile tool for both professional fitness and general productivity.

For the end user, the primary benefit of this ecosystem is the reduction of ear fatigue and the mitigation of hygiene issues associated with long-term in-ear bud usage. By removing the physical barrier in the ear canal, these devices reduce pressure and the risk of ear infections, which is a growing consideration for the health-conscious consumer segment.

As Shokz integrates more deeply into the Thai market, the focus remains on the intersection of technology and wellness, promoting a lifestyle where audio consumption does not come at the expense of environmental connectivity.