Summary
Samsung has launched Galaxy Buds On, its first open-ear earbuds, with a clip-on fit, voice controls and AI-linked features. The company says their design helps users hear nearby sounds while listening.
Samsung has launched Galaxy Buds On, its first open-ear earbuds. In a hands-on account published on October 27, 2026, Samsung describes a clip-on design intended to leave users more aware of surrounding sounds, alongside voice controls and features that connect with Samsung and Google services.
A clip-on fit with access to ambient sound
Rather than sealing the ear canal like conventional in-ear earbuds, Galaxy Buds On clips onto the ear. Samsung says users can adjust the band’s angle to suit their ear shape, and that speaker and battery placement was developed using data analysis and simulations involving a range of ears. The company’s account says the earbuds stayed in place during vigorous head movement and remained comfortable over several hours of use.
The open design is intended to let sounds such as approaching runners and bicycles remain audible while music is playing. Samsung also says a TwinBoost speaker delivers more bass than previous Galaxy Buds models. The article provides no audio measurements, so that comparison is Samsung’s product claim rather than a quantified result.
Voice and AI features depend on connected devices
Users can tap an earbud to start music or use spoken commands to change tracks and adjust volume. When paired with a Galaxy AI-enabled smartphone, the earbuds can provide hands-free access to Gemini Live. Samsung’s example is asking for running-route recommendations and information about route distance and features.
Quick Voice Memo starts recording when a user presses and holds the back of an earbud and speaks. Samsung says users can later ask Bixby about recorded tasks. This feature requires a Galaxy AI-enabled device with Samsung Voice Recorder and Bixby, and the press-and-hold action must be configured in Settings.
Head Gestures offer another hands-free control: nodding can answer a call, while shaking the head can decline one. Samsung also says users can use head movements to check message notifications and dismiss alarms.
Call processing and a practical caveat
For calls in noisy places, Samsung describes Intelligent Clear Call as combining three microphones, a bone conduction-based Voice Pickup Unit Sensor and machine-learning processing to isolate the user’s voice and reduce background noise. The company’s hands-on account reports clear calls in noisy settings such as crowded subway stations.
Open-ear listening can also let sound escape. Samsung cautions that leakage depends on playback volume, ear shape and ambient noise, and may be more noticeable in quiet surroundings. Fit and listening conditions therefore matter to both the experience and how much nearby people may hear.