vivo has expanded its audio lineup with the launch of the iQOO Buds 1i, a new set of true wireless stereo (TWS) earbuds that offer a long battery life and budget price tag. While largely a rebranded version of the existing vivo Buds 3i, the iQOO Buds 1i arrive with a new yellow and black color scheme and subtle tweaks depending on the market.
The standout feature is the battery life, with the international version rated for up to 50 hours of use when including the charging case. This variant is currently available in Indonesia. Meanwhile, the Chinese version offers a slightly lower capacity, topping out at 45 hours. These figures put the iQOO Buds 1i on the higher end of battery performance among entry-level wireless earbuds.
The earbuds come with Bluetooth 5.4 support, enabling stable connectivity and a low-latency gaming mode with response times around 88 milliseconds. Audio is driven by a 10mm driver using a polymer composite diaphragm, which vivo claims helps deliver prominent bass, crisp vocals, and defined treble. While these specs sound promising for casual listening, the overall performance will likely reflect the modest price point.
Like other vivo earbuds, the iQOO Buds 1i include IP54-rated dust and water resistance, making them suitable for light workouts and daily wear. AI-powered noise reduction is also present, helping reduce background interference during calls. The global version integrates with Android devices via Google Fast Pair and supports voice commands through Google Assistant.
Positioned firmly in the budget segment, the iQOO Buds 1i are priced at around $21 in Indonesia for the 50-hour version. The 45-hour Chinese edition retails for approximately $13. While the hardware itself isn’t new, the fresh branding under the iQOO name and striking design may appeal to younger consumers or those looking for a functional yet inexpensive pair of TWS earbuds.
With their accessible pricing and focus on practical features, the iQOO Buds 1i add another option to vivo’s expanding catalog of budget wireless earbuds, targeting users who prioritize long battery life and basic functionality over premium audio enhancements.
