Samsung Galaxy Buds On, the company's first clip-on earbuds, launched in South Korea on October 27, 2026, at 299,000 won
The open-ear design keeps the ear canal free and offers TwinBoost speakers, audio leakage reduction, Galaxy AI features, and up to 9.5 hours of music playback.
Samsung plans a phased global rollout but has not confirmed launch dates or prices for India or the United States. Independent reviews will determine real-world sound quality, comfort, and call performance.
For years, Galaxy Buds have fit inside the ear. The newest pair sits around the outer ear. The Samsung Galaxy Buds On are the company’s first clip-on earbuds, and sales began in South Korea on October 27, 2026. Each bud rests around the outer ear and leaves the ear canal open. That design choice affects comfort, sound quality, and sound leakage.
For years, Galaxy Buds have fit inside the ear. The newest pair sits around the outer ear. The Samsung Galaxy Buds On are the company’s first clip-on earbuds, and sales began in South Korea on October 27, 2026. Each bud rests around the outer ear and leaves the ear canal open. That design choice affects comfort, sound quality, and sound leakage.
Open-ear earbuds remain a small part of the wireless audio market. Sony, Shokz, and Bose already sell models, including the Sony LinkBuds Clip, the Shokz OpenDots One, and the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds. Samsung enters the market with an established smartphone ecosystem. It unveiled the Buds On on October 1 with little fanfare.
The company does not present the Buds On as a replacement for its in-ear models. It describes the two styles as separate options for different moments. In-ear Galaxy Buds suit deep focus. The Buds On suit outdoor runs and other times when awareness matters.
The design works like a small earring that plays music. Sound travels through open air to the ear. Samsung says it studied many ear shapes before placing the speaker and battery. Fine-tuned elasticity keeps the band snug. Wearers can adjust its angle to suit different ears.
The open fit lets runners hear approaching bicycles and other runners, according to Samsung. Awareness still has limits. Loud music can mask nearby traffic. Volume matters outdoors, even with an open design. Automatic volume control raises playback in noisy places.
Open designs face two known problems. A sealed earbud traps sound near the eardrum, which supports bass. An open design cannot trap sound that way. Low notes weaken. Some sound drifts outward. The table below sets Samsung's claims against what reviews still need to test.
| Area | Samsung's Claim | Still to be Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | TwinBoost speakers strengthen low frequencies. | Depth and clarity at normal volume |
| Sound leakage | First Audio Leakage Reduction in Galaxy Buds | Spill in quiet rooms |
| Calls | Three microphones and a voice sensor reduce background noise. | Clarity in wind and traffic |
| Comfort | A wider contact area spreads pressure and stays secure in motion. | Fit after several hours |
| Battery | Up to 9.5 hours of continuous music | Real-world battery life under typical use |
Samsung positions the feature for use in libraries, cafes, and shared offices. Its own footnote adds a caution. Some sound can still escape, depending on playback volume, ear shape, and surrounding noise. The effect may stand out more in quiet places.
Touch controls handle music and calls. A Galaxy AI-enabled phone or tablet unlocks the smart features. Nodding answers an incoming call. Shaking the head declines it. Gestures can also check message notifications and dismiss alarms.
The wearer can record a quick voice memo by pressing and holding the back of an earbud while speaking. It needs Samsung's Voice Recorder and Bixby apps, plus a setting change. Gemini Live opens through a voice command on compatible Galaxy devices.
Pairing is simple. Opening the charging case connects the buds to a Galaxy phone or tablet. Volume and equalizer controls sit in the phone's settings. No extra app is needed.
The earbuds use a Qualcomm Snapdragon S7 Gen 1 Sound Platform and a high-efficiency Class-D amplifier. Samsung credits that pairing for its 9.5-hour rating.
In South Korea, the buds cost 299,000 won, about USD 220 to USD 225. They come in black only and are sold through Samsung's website, online stores, and authorized retailers.
Samsung plans a phased rollout to other markets. It has not named countries, dates, or prices, including for the United States and India. European retailer listings point to a December release. Swiss stores list prices from CHF 179 to CHF 199. Those listings are unofficial.
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Samsung's entry adds a major phone maker to a field of audio brands. That could draw more Galaxy owners toward open designs. The format also suits all-day wear, which fits voice tools. Hands-free memos and Gemini Live point toward earbuds that work as a voice link to the phone. Sound quality will still decide the outcome.
Also Read: Samsung Galaxy Buds Get FDA-Cleared Hearing Aid Feature
The Samsung Galaxy Buds On make the most sense for people who want comfortable earbuds without blocking their ear canals. They suit walking, running, and office use but are less practical for flights and noisy commutes.
Their success will depend on how well they handle bass, call quality, and sound leakage in everyday situations. Until Samsung confirms global availability and independent reviews assess their performance, buyers should wait before making a purchase.
The Samsung Galaxy Buds On are Samsung's first clip-on earbuds. They sit around the outer ear without entering the ear canal, allowing users to hear music while remaining aware of their surroundings.
The Samsung Galaxy Buds On are priced at 299,000 South Korean won, approximately USD 220 to USD 225. Prices for other markets have not been officially announced.
Samsung claims that the Galaxy Buds On offer up to 9.5 hours of continuous music playback. Actual battery life may vary depending on volume, usage, and other conditions.
Yes, their open-ear design allows runners to hear surrounding sounds while listening to music. However, users should keep the volume at a safe level and remain alert to traffic and other potential hazards.
Samsung has not announced an official launch date or price for India. Buyers will need to wait for confirmation from the company regarding availability in the Indian market.