Samsung unveils Galaxy Buds 4 with revamped design, Bluetooth 6.1, and an ultra high quality mode

Alongside the Galaxy S26 series, Samsung has also unveiled new earbuds. Called the Galaxy Buds 4 series, the new audio products include the standard Galaxy Buds 4 and the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro. This article focuses on the standard version.

The Galaxy Buds 4, like the pro model, have a new look, although they still retain the open-fit design of the Galaxy Buds 3. The stems, which have a metal accent, are now flat, instead of angular like those of the previous generation, and thus, should be more comfortable. Samsung has also redesigned the charging case, as the earbuds now lie flat in the case instead of standing upright. However, the lid is still transparent.

The spec sheet says the earbuds are a tad lighter now at 4.6 grams while the charging case is 45.1 grams. In comparison, the Galaxy Buds 3 (available on amazon for $92.50) weigh 4.7 grams while the charging case weighs 46.5 grams.

With respect to features, the Galaxy Buds 4 have adaptive active noise cancellation (ANC) and an adaptive equalizer (EQ). They also have support for 24-bit audio support and an Ultra High Quality (UHQ) sound mode for a premium audio experience. The latter requires a Galaxy S23 or newer, Galaxy Z Fold 5 or newer, Galaxy Z Flip 5 or newer, and Galaxy Tab S9 and newer, all of which must be running One UI 6.1.1 or newer.

The Galaxy Buds 4 earbuds feature Bluetooth 6.1 and seamlessly connect to a Samsung smartphone or tablet. However, other devices require users to install the Galaxy Wearable app. The earbuds also have support for the following codecs: SSC (Samsung Seamless Codec) HiFi, SSC UHQ, AAC, SBC, and LC3. They also feature Bluetooth Auracast, 360 audio, Super Wideband Call for crystal-clear calls in noisy environments, and can launch Bixby and Google Gemini hands-free.

According to the spec sheet, the Galaxy Buds 4 earbuds have a battery capacity of 42mAh while the case has a 500mAh battery. The advertised battery life for playback is stated to be a total of 30 hours with the charging case with ANC turned off. However, Samsung goes more in depth for the talk time duration.

The earbuds will last up to 3.5 hours and a total of 18 hours with the charging case with ANC on, but when ANC is turned off, the earbuds last 4 hours and a total of 20 hours with the case. Surprisingly, the Galaxy Buds 4 now feature a lower IP54 dust and water resistance rating compared to the IP57 rating of the Galaxy Buds 3.

The Galaxy Buds 4 are available in Black and White and can be pre-ordered starting today for €179/$179.99/£159, ahead of their release on March 6.