Samsung's newly launched Galaxy Buds 3 series looks suspiciously similar to Apple's AirPods

We’re only about two weeks away from the Summer Olympics, which are taking place this year in Paris, France. Capitalizing on that event’s popularity, Samsung held its own event this morning in the same city. Although the main focus of Galaxy Unpacked was the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6, those weren’t the only devices that got an announcement. The company also officially unveiled the Galaxy Buds 3 series.

Today, Samsung showed off its latest audio products, the Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro. From a design standpoint, the new earbuds are a drastic change from the last generation. Samsung’s new earbuds now sport a form factor reminiscent of Apple’s AirPods, in stark contrast to the more spherical design of their predecessors.

Also similar to Apple’s earbuds lineup, the base model (Galaxy Buds 3, pictured above) has an in-ear design, while the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro (pictured below) offers a rubber tip like the AirPods Pro.

Something else you may notice about the new design is the stripe that runs along the stem. This stripe is not just for aesthetic purposes, it’s one of the device’s features. These stripes — called Blade Lights — light up to make it easier for owners to find their earbuds when they get lost.

The Blade Lights also turn on if the user has activated Interpreter (Listening Mode) — a feature that allows the user to hear translations. When this feature is activated, the user will also be able to see translated text on their phone screen.

Other notable features include enhanced call clarity, super wideband (SWB) call functionality, IP57 water and dust resistance, enhanced two-way speaker, and Siren Detect (lowers ANC when sirens are detected). As for sound, you can expect an adaptive EQ, ANC, a dual amp, sound optimization based on surroundings, and Ultra High Audio quality (SSC Hi-Fi 24bit/96kHz).

One area where the Buds 3 Pro differs from the standard model is ambient sound mode and voice detection (capable of distinguishing between human voice and noise). Owners of the Buds 3 will only have the option to turn ANC on or off. Another difference is battery capacity, with the Buds 3 offering 48mAh and the Buds 3 Pro having 53mAh. However, both pairs of earbuds come with a 515mAh charging case.

Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro pricing and availability

The Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro will be available on July 24 for $179.99 (£159) and $249.99 (£219), respectively. You can pre-order from Samsung’s website, where you’ll be able to choose between two colorways: White or Silver.