FiiO LINK TWS unveiled as UTWS5 successor

The FiiO LINK TWS is the successor to the UTWS5, a TWS ear hook adapter for in-ear monitors (IEMs) that transforms wired earphones into True Wireless Stereo devices. The main improvements implemented can be summarized as a better DAC, a newer Bluetooth chipset, and higher output power. See below everything that is known so far about this new release.

FiiO showcases the UTWS5 successor at its booth at CIHE 2026 in Shanghai

FiiO showcased the successor to the UTWS5, the LINK UTWS, at its booth at CIHE (China International Headphone Exhibition) 2026 in Shanghai, held on March 14 and 15. As was the case with the Snowsky Echo Nano DAP, the TWS adapter for IEMs also appeared at CanJam NYC 2026, which took place in New York City, USA, on March 7 and 8.

With its debut approaching, the company decided to reveal the main specifications and release date of the LINK UTWS during CIHE.

Recommended articles for further reading:
• Snowsky Echo Nano: Release Date and Specs Revealed
• FiiO EH13: New Bluetooth Over-Ear Launched

New DAC and Bluetooth chipset

Both the DAC and the Bluetooth chipset have been updated in the LINK TWS.

While the 2025 version of the UTWS5 uses the AKM AK4332 DAC, the LINK TWS adopts the AK4333.

Regarding the Bluetooth chipset, the Qualcomm QCC5181 has been implemented, supporting the Bluetooth 6.0 standard. In addition, the LINK TWS supports the aptX Lossless audio codec, which is not available on the UTWS5.

Higher output power

The output power of the LINK TWS is slightly higher than that of the UTWS5 2025 version, which delivers 55 mW at 16 ohms and 35 mW at 32 ohms.

Charging case with integrated display

To facilitate battery level monitoring, the LINK TWS features a charging case with an integrated display. The screen shows both the battery level of the ear hooks and that of the case itself.

Battery life

According to FiiO, the LINK TWS offers battery life similar to that of the UTWS5, which provides up to 8 hours of continuous playback using the AAC codec.

Wireless charging to prevent oxidation remains

Currently, FiiO is one of the few, if not the only, manufacturers adopting wireless charging, eliminating the metal contact points found in most charging cases. This represents a significant advantage over competitors, as there are many reported issues related to oxidation of charging pins, especially among users who utilize the accessory during physical activities.

Support for 10-band parametric equalizer (PEQ)

Like the UTWS5 2025 version, the LINK TWS also supports a 10-band parametric equalizer (PEQ). To apply EQ settings, users must access the FiiO Control app, available in mobile (Android) and web (browser) versions.

FiiO LINK TWS: Specifications

• 10-band parametric equalizer (PEQ)
• Battery life: approximately 8 hours
• Bluetooth 6.0
• Charging case with integrated display for battery level indication
• DAC: AKM AK4333
• Output power: higher than 35 mW at 32 ohms
• Support for MMCX and 0.78 mm 2-pin connectors
• Support for wireless charging for the ear hooks
• Supported Bluetooth audio codecs: LDAC and aptX Lossless

Note: Additional Bluetooth codecs are supported by the LINK TWS; however, FiiO has only disclosed these so far.

Release date, price, and availability

The FiiO LINK TWS is expected to be released in May 2026. Its price has not yet been officially announced, but it is expected to be close to that of the UTWS5 2025 version (US$175).