Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Leaks Show AirPods-Like Design, May Lose Lost Earbud Finder

The new Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 might look like Apple AirPods, but could lose the feature that helps you find them if you lose them. This is a big change from older models.
By Newsroom | Technology, Mobile |

Recent leaks and reports about the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro suggest a notable shift in design, with observers frequently drawing comparisons to Apple's AirPods. These leaks also indicate the potential removal of a key feature that aids in locating lost earbuds. The forthcoming release is expected to arrive sometime next year, possibly alongside the Galaxy S26 series.

Samsung isn’t aping the AirPods, but doing a better job on the upcoming Galaxy Buds 4 - 1

Design Parallels and User Reception

Reports indicate that the Galaxy Buds 4 series is adopting a design that shares significant visual similarities with Apple's AirPods, particularly the AirPods Pro. This includes a design that moves away from the angular stems seen in the previous Galaxy Buds 3 lineup.

Samsung isn’t aping the AirPods, but doing a better job on the upcoming Galaxy Buds 4 - 2

  • Some reports suggest that the standard Galaxy Buds 4 may not feature eartips, a departure from traditional earbud design that some users may find unsuitable.

  • The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro are presented as an option for users who prefer or require eartips.

  • User reactions, as reported, appear mixed, with some expressing dissatisfaction with the perceived emulation of Apple's design. One comment highlighted a preference for the older design, stating, "I will never buy another pair of Samsung's earbuds if they stay with Apple's design."

Feature Changes and Speculation

Beyond design, leaks point to the possible omission of a specific functionality.

Samsung isn’t aping the AirPods, but doing a better job on the upcoming Galaxy Buds 4 - 3

  • New images suggest the Galaxy Buds 4 charging case may lack a built-in speaker grille.

  • This grille is currently used to emit sound, assisting users in finding misplaced earbuds.

  • The absence of this feature is presented as a potential drawback for users who rely on this tool for locating their devices.

Samsung's Stance on Design Influence

Samsung executives have previously addressed claims of design imitation concerning earlier models.

Samsung isn’t aping the AirPods, but doing a better job on the upcoming Galaxy Buds 4 - 4

  • A Samsung executive, when discussing the Galaxy Buds 3 lineup, stated that the design choices, including the stems, were driven by the needs of sound quality and AI-related features, rather than an intent to copy Apple.

  • The executive reportedly conveyed an indifferent attitude towards accusations of copying, stating, "I don't care."

  • The rationale provided was that the form factor served functional purposes.

Previous Model Comparisons and Market Context

The Galaxy Buds 3 series itself had drawn comparisons to Apple's AirPods, a trend that appears to be continuing with the next generation.

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  • Some reviews of the Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro noted a strong resemblance to AirPods.

  • There are also reports suggesting that Samsung's previous generation, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, was considered by some to be less innovative than its predecessor, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro.

  • Samsung's Galaxy Buds FE are noted for offering good value for Samsung phone owners and providing enhanced water and dust protection (IP54) compared to some other models.

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is new about the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 design?
Leaks show the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 might have a design that looks very similar to Apple's AirPods. This is a change from the older Galaxy Buds 3 design.
Q: Will the Galaxy Buds 4 still help me find lost earbuds?
Reports suggest the charging case for the Galaxy Buds 4 might not have a speaker. This speaker is used to make a sound so you can find lost earbuds, so this feature could be missing.
Q: Are there different versions of the Galaxy Buds 4?
Yes, there is expected to be a standard Galaxy Buds 4 and a Galaxy Buds 4 Pro. The standard version might not have ear tips, while the Pro version likely will.
Q: When will the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 be released?
The new Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 are expected to be released sometime next year, possibly at the same time as the new Galaxy S26 phones.
Q: What did Samsung say about copying designs before?
A Samsung boss said they don't care if people think their earbuds copy Apple's design. They said the design choices are for better sound and features, not to copy others.