Samsung Galaxy Buds may finally adopt the AirPods’ stem design

For years, Samsung’s Galaxy Buds earbuds were known for their ‘stem-less’ design approach, offering a more compact fit thanks to no cylindrical protrusion outside the ear.

This was the case with flagship earbuds like the Galaxy Buds2 Pro, as well as affordable ones like the Galaxy Buds FE. However, it seems Samsung has decided to let go of this design.

As per a new leak, first spotted by SamMobile, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 and Galaxy Buds3 Pro will both feature a stem design. The leak showcases a list of multiple Galaxy Ear-series audio accessories on a phone. The icons on the left are what actually give away the new design.

Why Samsung may have switched the design

Since both the Galaxy Buds3 and Galaxy Buds3 Pro are yet to launch, we don’t know what Samsung’s official stance on the new design approach is. While stem-less TWS earbuds are more minimal aesthetically, and have a smaller profile when worn, there are some plus points to the stem design.

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These include more area to accommodate a larger battery or more sensors, as well as better microphone placement, with the mics now closer to the mouth. In our experience, earbuds with stems like the AirPods Pro or the Nothing Ear are better with these aspects.

Higher-end earbuds which have stems can also accommodate advanced control mechanisms like pinch-gestures, which (once you get a hang of them) are much better than the tap controls you get on stem-less designs. Having a stem outside your ears also makes it easier to take out the earbuds quickly.

We will only know how the new design benefits Samsung’s upcoming earbuds when they officially launch, which may happen next month alongside Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold6 series.