Samsung launches its first clip-on earbuds, the Galaxy Buds On

Samsung has unveiled the Galaxy Buds On, its first clip-on wireless earbuds designed to sit around the ear without blocking the ear canal. The new model gives Samsung an open-ear alternative to its traditional in-ear Galaxy Buds.

The clip-on design is intended to keep users aware of their surroundings while listening to music or taking calls, making the earbuds particularly suited to walking and exercise. Samsung says it analyzed different ear shapes and used simulations to optimize the placement of the speakers and battery, while adjusting the band to stay secure during movement.

For audio, the Galaxy Buds On use TwinBoost speakers designed to improve bass performance, along with automatic volume adjustment based on ambient conditions. Samsung has also added Audio Leakage Reduction to limit how much sound can be heard by people nearby. The earbuds are powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon S7 Gen 1 Sound Platform and can deliver up to 9.5 hours of continuous music playback on a charge.

Calls are handled by three microphones, a bone-conduction Voice Pickup Unit and machine learning designed to separate the wearer’s voice from background noise. When paired with a compatible Galaxy device, the Buds On also support Gemini Live, letting users start a hands-free conversation with Google’s AI assistant by voice.

Other features include Quick Voice Memo, which can start recording from a long press on an earbud, and head gestures for actions such as answering or ending calls, dismissing alarms and handling message notifications. Basic music and call controls are available by tapping the back of the earbuds.

The Galaxy Buds On will go on sale first in South Korea on October 27 for 299,000 won, or about $220, and will initially be available only in black. Samsung says a global rollout will follow, but has not announced dates or pricing for other markets.