- Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro renders emerge
- They show design changes; expect more on February 25
- No word on whether Samsung’s controversial headphone tip locking mechanism is back
It’s looking increasingly likely that the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro will launch alongside the Galaxy S26 phones at Galaxy Unpacked 2026, likely on February 25, and we’ve just seen the first renders of these new AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 3 rivals.
Android Headlines has shared renders of the Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro. It’s unclear the exact source of these renders or what information they’re based on, but they line up with what we’ve already seen.
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The images of the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 show something similar to the Galaxy Buds 3, without headphones. Changes from the previous model are flat stems and a clamshell charging case. These changes are also present in the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro, but they enjoy headphones. The models are black and white respectively, but apparently only represent two of many color options.
These renders match a previous look we saw of the buttons, which originated in the Samsung Tips app, especially in the charging case department. It seems that a redesigned charging case and flat-back stems are the two main design changes that the new earbuds will enjoy.
No information on tipping situation
I tested the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro early and experienced the issues that slowed them down. Samsung used a patented ear tip locking system, which apparently made removing and replacing the bud tips much easier…
…however, in practice, it made it much more difficult. As you can see in the image above, I managed to tear off a piece of the tip of the ear with my nail when trying to remove it, weakening it for the future. I’m hoping Samsung has redesigned this system for the Buds 4 Pro.
However, since writing that review, I have realized that this system presents a different problem and there is no indication that my second problem will be fixed. You see, the buds and tip used a screw-type hook system to hold them, which held them in place so much that it caused the problem above, but it’s also incompatible with other headphones besides Samsung ones.
Do you have a large collection of pads, from previous headphones you’ve owned, or do you simply want to purchase new ones in a different material or design that suits your tastes? I’m sorryThey won’t fit. I’ve seen reports on Reddit of people tinkering with third-party headphones to make them work on Samsung ones, but they’re obviously more DIY-savvy than me.
I see it as quite anti-consumerist; All the earplugs you own now are basically electronic waste. While you can buy replacements from other companies online, that means the headphones you already own aren’t compatible and you’ll have to rely on cheap Amazon alternatives if you lose your current picks. Samsung’s website doesn’t even have replacements: its Galaxy Buds accessories page gives you Minions-themed cases and carabiners.
Samsung isn’t the only company using a system like this, Apple also uses a similar custom design for its AirPods Pro. But if its only other counterpart is the inventor of the Lightning port and OS-locked headphones, it’s not a good sign for being open and consumer-friendly. I expect the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro to use standard earbuds, like basically every other company.
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