Samsung Puts Open-Ear Buds to Work

Samsung Electronics is positioning its Galaxy Buds On as an open-ear alternative designed for all-day listening, combining a clip-on fit with noise-aware audio, hands-free controls and artificial intelligence features. Samsung Newsroom tested the earbuds during activities including running, office work and commuting.

The earbuds use an adjustable clip-on design intended to remain secure during movement while allowing users to hear surrounding sounds, such as approaching cyclists and runners. Samsung says the devices feature TwinBoost speakers for enhanced bass and support voice commands for playback and volume adjustments. When paired with a Galaxy AI-enabled smartphone, users can also access Gemini Live through a voice prompt for tasks such as finding running routes.

For workplace use, Galaxy Buds On includes Audio Leakage Reduction technology to limit sound escaping from the earbuds. A Quick Voice Memo feature allows users to record notes, while Bixby can later provide details from saved tasks. Head Gestures also enable users to answer or reject calls and manage notifications through nods and shakes.

Samsung says the earbuds use three microphones, a bone-conduction Voice Pickup Unit Sensor and machine-learning technology to improve call clarity in noisy settings. The company cautioned that sound leakage can vary depending on volume, ear shape and surrounding noise, and that some features require compatible Galaxy AI devices and Samsung applications.