SAN FRANCISCO – Samsung unveiled its latest line of True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds, the Galaxy Buds 4 series, at the Galaxy Unpacked event held at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco, California, on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. The launch marks the arrival of the successor to the Galaxy Buds 3 series, which debuted in July 2024.
The Galaxy Buds 4 series includes two main models: the Galaxy Buds 4 and the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro. These new earbuds were announced alongside the Galaxy S26 series of smartphones, demonstrating Samsung’s commitment to a seamlessly integrated device ecosystem.
Charging Case and Earpiece Design Updates
One of the most noticeable updates to the Galaxy Buds 4 series is the redesigned charging case. Departing from previous generations, the case now features a semi-transparent design, particularly on the lid, allowing users to view the position of the earbuds inside without opening it.
The Galaxy Buds 4 series also returns to a horizontal charging case design with curved edges, reminiscent of the Galaxy Buds 2 series. This is a significant change from the vertical charging case used in the Buds 3 series. The earbuds themselves retain the familiar stem-shaped design of their predecessors, now enhanced with an elegant metal finish.
Enhanced Audio Quality and AI Features
Samsung has placed a strong emphasis on improving the audio experience with the Galaxy Buds 4 series. The company claims the new earbuds deliver superior hi-fi sound quality, more stable Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) features to support daily activities. This focus on audio fidelity reflects a broader trend in the earbud market towards higher-resolution sound and immersive listening experiences.
During the presentation at Galaxy Unpacked, Andrew Short, Product Management at Samsung, explained, “Galaxy Buds 4 Series is equipped with a two-way speaker with a wider vibration area, Dual Amplifier, Adaptive ANC, and Ultra High Quality Audio support. This combination delivers clearer, more detailed, deeper, and richer sound.”
Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro: Specifications and Differences
The primary difference between the two models lies in the earbud design and how they are worn. The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro features an in-ear design utilizing silicone ear tips, providing inherent sound isolation from the surrounding environment.
In contrast, the Galaxy Buds 4 standard model adopts an open-ear design without ear tips. This design may appeal to users who prefer situational awareness or identify in-ear earbuds uncomfortable.
Despite the design differences, Samsung emphasizes that both Galaxy Buds 4 series models offer significant improvements in ANC stability and reliability compared to previous generations. Even as the company did not specify exact decibel reductions, it believes these improvements will be immediately noticeable to users.
The Wireless Earbud Trend in 2026
In 2026, TWS earbuds continue to dominate the wearable technology market. Improvements in sound quality, ANC effectiveness, and the integration of smart features are key factors consumers are seeking. The Galaxy Buds 4 series, with its emphasis on hi-fi audio and AI features, addresses this trend by offering an immersive and functional listening experience.
Users can now enjoy music, podcasts, or phone calls with superior sound quality while simultaneously reducing distracting noise thanks to increasingly sophisticated ANC technology. The adoption of a semi-transparent charging case design also demonstrates Samsung’s efforts to innovate in both functionality and aesthetics.
Tips for Choosing the Right TWS Earbuds
Selecting the right TWS earbuds can be challenging. Consider the following:
- Sound Quality: If you are an audiophile or frequently listen to detailed music, look for earbuds with hi-fi audio support or high-quality audio codecs.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): For a focused listening experience, especially in noisy environments, effective ANC is crucial.
- Design and Comfort: Consider whether you prefer an isolating in-ear design or a more open ear design. Testing the comfort of earbuds is essential.
- Additional Features: Features such as multipoint connectivity, battery life, water resistance, and AI integration can enhance daily use.
- Device Ecosystem: If you use a smartphone or other devices from the same brand, earbuds from that brand often offer smoother integration.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 series represents a significant evolution in Samsung’s TWS earbud lineup. With a combination of updated design, enhanced audio quality, and intelligent AI features, both models are positioned to meet the demands of the evolving market in 2026. Users now have more choices to enjoy a superior and integrated wireless audio experience.
