ByteDance launched Thursday its inaugural wireless earbuds, Ola Friend, in China.

These open-ear wearables enable users to interact with ByteDance’s generative AI chatbot without waking their smartphones.

Priced at 1,199 yuan (approximately US$170), the earbuds are available for order on several e-commerce platforms, including Tmall and JD.com, with shipping commencing on October 17.

The Ola Friend earbuds, each weighing 6.6 grams, cater to tasks such as language practice and music playback.

The earbuds utilize the phrase “Doubao Doubao” to activate the chatbot, named Doubao, which was introduced by ByteDance last year.

ByteDance’s hardware venture follows its acquisition of Shenzhen-based start-up Oladance and aligns with its investment in generative AI technologies.