Samsung’s First Clip-Style Galaxy Buds On Land in the U.S. on Nov. 6 for $229
Clip-on earbuds have become one of the busiest corners of the audio market, and Samsung has now stepped in. The company announced the Galaxy Buds
Clip-on earbuds have become one of the busiest corners of the audio market, and Samsung has now stepped in. The company announced the Galaxy Buds On, its first open-ear clip-style earbuds, at $229 in the United States, with sales starting November 6, 2026.
They come in one color, black, and one size. Samsung is selling them as a different kind of Galaxy Buds: they sit on the outside of the ear and leave the ear canal open, rather than sealing it the way the company's earlier in-ear models do.
What sets the design apart
Leaked renders published earlier showed a speaker unit resting in the outer bowl of the ear, with a support arm that clips around the outside, roughly like a small earring. Samsung says the shape-memory alloy in the arm keeps the buds comfortable and stable. The open design lets wearers hear their surroundings. The company points to workouts as a natural use.
Samsung lists 9.5 hours of battery life, IP54 dust and water resistance, and a wireless-charging case. It also touts a feature that curbs sound leakage so people nearby can't hear the audio. TwinBoost speakers and clearer call audio round out the pitch.
Owners of Galaxy AI devices get extras: voice-call AI features, Quick Voice Memos and head-gesture controls. The buds also fit accessories made for the Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro cases.
Limits and a crowded field
There is no multipoint Bluetooth, so the buds can't stay connected to two devices at once. Automatic switching works only between Samsung devices.
Timing matters. SoundGuys notes that nearly every major audio brand already sells clip-on earbuds, and calls Samsung one of the last big names to join. The reviewer argues the clip design may be the final form of open earbuds, because it stays put better and sounds better than other open styles, without the pressure of a sealed fit. The question, the outlet says, is whether the Galaxy Buds On offer enough to stand out.
Korea first, Europe next
Samsung started in its home market. The earbuds went on sale in South Korea on October 27 at 299,000 won, around $225, through Samsung.com, online marketplaces and Samsung Stores. Buyers who purchase by November 30 get two 30% coupons for Galaxy Buds accessories on Samsung.com. European launches are expected soon, according to SamMobile.
Samsung says its own survey found that people expect comfort, rich sound and clear calls from clip-style earbuds. A U.S. price of $229 puts the Galaxy Buds On within a few dollars of the Korean price.
Pre-launch FCC certification under model SM-U600 had already cleared the way for a U.S. release.
Source: gizmodo.com
