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Samsung expands audio lineup and medical hearing features

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2026-11-06 18:59 UTC → 2026-11-08 11:51 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Samsung Electronics has officially launched the Galaxy Buds On, its first wireless clip-on, open-ear earbuds. Designed for situational awareness and physical activities, the device uses shape-memory alloy bands and 4D computing-based AI optimization for a secure fit without obstructing the ear canal. Technical specifications include Twin Boost speakers, specialized leak reduction technology, and the Snapdragon S7 Gen 1 Sound Platform. The earbuds offer up to 9.5 hours of continuous listening and utilize a triple-microphone array with a bone-conduction-based Voice Pickup Sensor. Deep integration with Galaxy AI and Gemini Live enables voice-activated assistance, while users can manage functions via touch-sensitive areas or head gestures, such as nodding to answer calls. The device is ambidextrous, using sensors to automatically detect which ear it is placed in and adjusting audio channels accordingly. Following its release in South Korea, the Galaxy Buds On has been priced at approximately $225 in Korea and $229 in the United States. In the United States, the Galaxy Buds On are officially available for $229.99, offering up to 38 hours of total battery life when including the charging case. Samsung is also diversifying its audio portfolio with the Galaxy Buds4 Pro. These premium earbuds feature a dual-driver system, dual amplifiers, and Adaptive ANC 2.0, supporting 24-bit/96 kHz Hi-Fi audio via the SSC UHQ codec. They integrate Galaxy AI features including real-time translation and support for Bixby, Google Gemini, and Perplexity. In a move toward digital health, Samsung has received medical device approval from South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety for “Hearing Test” and “Hearing Aid” functions. These features, intended for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss, will be rolled out via software updates to Galaxy Buds4 Pro and Buds3 Pro users starting in early 2025. The Hearing Test uses pure tone air conduction to generate an audiogram, while the Hearing Aid function applies the NAL-NL2 prescription formula to amplify specific frequencies. This follows previous FDA approval for similar functions in the United States.

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