New type of Galaxy Buds all but confirmed to launch in a matter of weeks

We’ve been hearing about a new type of Galaxy Buds for months, with multiple leaks suggesting an open-ear design. While their suggested name switched from “able” to Galaxy Buds On, the stream of leaks, including what could be an official render, has been quite consistent. It now appears that the new earbuds are finally about to launch.

Galaxy Buds On appear in an FCC filing

Samsung appears to be very close to the premiere of its new open-ear Galaxy Buds On, as they just appeared in an FCC database. According to newly published documentation, a device with model number SMU600 got equipment authorization on September 15.

This model number matches an earlier reference to the open-ear earphones inside the Galaxy Buds app. Getting the authorization means that Samsung can start selling its new earbuds in the United States right away, so it’s very likely for them to launch in the coming weeks.

Galaxy Buds On could have a bunch of premium issues at launch

Though the open-ear design may not be all that popular yet, Samsung appears eager to give the Galaxy Buds On every chance for success. Earlier leaks suggested multiple cool features, including some that have been available for the latest Galaxy Buds 4 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro.

Among those could be the nod and shake gestures, which allow accepting or rejecting calls only by moving your head. There could also be brand-new Auto Volume  and Volume Boost features, which may automatically detect loud environments and adjust the volume accordingly.

Of course, there will be Gemini support, with signs of a voice recording feature, which could include transcribing and translating the records. Another intriguing feature could detect when you fall asleep while listening and automatically pause the media you’re playing.

While many users on Reddit were more concerned with sharing how much they missed the bean-shaped Galaxy Buds, there was at least some excitement for the new form factor. Of course, many people were quick to point out that it was already done by other brands before.

Not the first major buds with this design

Samsung will join a busy niche with the Galaxy Buds On. Ranging from the Moto Buds Loop and Sony’s LinkBuds Clip to the Huawei FreeClip 2 and Soundcore AeroClip, this design has been gaining steam in the last few years.

While I’m using noise-canceling earbuds specifically to isolate myself from the outside world, I can see the appeal of a pair of buds that don’t block your ears and allow you to hear what’s happening around you. I’m just curious if Samsung will be the company to make this design truly mainstream, and I’m glad we will learn if that’s the case quite soon.

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