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New firmware leaks have given us an early look at Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Buds 4, and if you spotted the Buds 4 Pro images earlier, these won’t feel like a surprise. The regular Buds 4 follow the same visual language, with a few notable changes that may frustrate longtime Samsung fans.
What the leaks actually show
Photos obtained from a leaked One UI 8.5 build reveal earbuds that echo the Buds 3 family: a thin, flat stem topped with a mesh grille and a non-in-ear, open-fit design — meaning no silicone tips. The silhouette is very close to the Pro variant, so expect a shared aesthetic across the lineup.
One small design detail that’s gone: Samsung’s signature “Blade Lights” on the stem. Introduced on previous models, those LEDs are absent on both Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro, a change some will view as a step backward. It’s a subtle sign that Samsung may be recalibrating its design language rather than committing to a long-term visual identity.
A smarter case design makes a comeback
Another interesting shift is the charging case. Samsung appears to be reverting to the pre-Buds 3 layout: earbuds sit horizontally in the case instead of vertically. It’s a practical move — horizontal placement generally makes earbuds easier to insert, remove, and secure in the cradle.
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Timing: a longer gap and a 2026 debut
Unlike earlier cycles, the Buds 4 lineup will arrive well over a year after the Buds 3 series. The Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro launched in July 2024; the new models are expected alongside Samsung’s next flagship in early 2026. That extended gap suggests Samsung is spacing out audio upgrades while focusing on other product areas.
Key takeaways
- Design: Very similar to Buds 4 Pro with a flat stem and mesh grille.
- Fit: Non-Pro model uses an open fit — no silicone ear tips.
- Lighting: Blade Lights removed from both Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro.
- Case: Charging case returns to horizontal layout for easier handling.
- Launch: Expected in early 2026, likely with Samsung's next Galaxy flagship.
Leaks don’t always tell the full story, but these details sketch a clear picture: incremental design refinement, a usability-minded case change, and some lost flourishes like the Blade Lights. For buyers weighing comfort, style and features, the Buds 4 family looks predictable — and quietly practical.
Source: sammobile
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