Samsung unveils Galaxy Buds On, its first clip-on earbuds

Samsung Electronics unveiled the Galaxy Buds On, its first clip-on wireless earbuds, featuring an open-ear design that allows users to hear their surroundings while listening to music.

The earbuds also support artificial intelligence voice interactions and hands-free controls using head movements, expanding their usefulness in everyday situations.

Samsung will launch the Galaxy Buds On first in South Korea on Oct. 27, followed by a phased global rollout, the company said Thursday.

Unlike traditional in-ear earbuds that seal the ear canal, the Galaxy Buds On rest lightly around the ear. The design allows users to remain aware of traffic and other surroundings while walking, running or exercising outdoors.

Samsung said it analyzed a wide range of ear shapes to optimize the placement of the speakers and batteries. It also increased the contact area to distribute pressure more evenly and improve comfort.

To compensate for the weaker bass that can result from an open-ear design, Samsung equipped the earbuds with its TwinBoost Speaker. The device also automatically adjusts volume based on ambient conditions.

Samsung applied its Audio Leakage Reduction technology to the Galaxy Buds series for the first time, limiting the amount of sound that escapes into the surrounding area.

For calls, the earbuds use three microphones and a bone-conduction Voice Pickup Unit sensor that detects vibrations generated when the user speaks. A machine-learning system separates the user’s voice from background noise, including wind outdoors and vacuum cleaner noise indoors.

The Galaxy Buds On feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon S7 Gen 1 Sound Platform and a power-efficient Class-D amplifier. They can play music continuously for up to 9.5 hours on a single charge.

When connected to a smartphone or tablet that supports Galaxy AI, users can access AI functions directly through the earbuds. Gemini Live can be activated with a voice command beginning with “Hey Google,” allowing users to interact with the AI assistant without reaching for their device.

Users can also activate Quick Voice Memo by pressing and holding the touch area on the back of an earbud while speaking. Recorded memos can later be retrieved through Bixby.

The Head Gestures feature recognizes nodding and head-shaking motions, allowing users to answer or end calls, dismiss alarms and check message notifications without using their hands.

The Galaxy Buds On will be available only in black and will cost 299,000 won ($220) in South Korea.

“The Galaxy Buds On feature a form factor designed for a variety of everyday use cases,” said Kim Jung-hyun, executive vice president and head of the Customer Experience Office at Samsung Electronics’ Mobile eXperience Business. “They will provide a comfortable everyday listening experience while allowing users to remain naturally connected to their surroundings.”