# Samsung prepares to launch new Galaxy headphones

The new headphones set to rival Apple's AirPods Max are coming in 2027.

- **Source:** [The Verge (theverge.com)](https://www.theverge.com)
- **Published:** 2026-08-14
- **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business)
- **Original article:** <https://www.theverge.com/gadgets/980547/samsung-galaxy-h1-over-ear-headphones>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/b2010d38-dbe9-4a41-84fe-33e00730bd25

## Samsung's new headphone move

Samsung is introducing its first new over-ear headphone model in a decade. Dubbed 'Galaxy H1', these headphones will launch in 2027. This marks the company's first over-ear headphones since the 2015 Level On model. It will be Samsung's first major headphone launch since acquiring Harman and other audio brands.

## Competition with Apple and Sony

The new Galaxy H1 headphones will directly compete with premium models like Apple's AirPods Max and Sony's XM series. While Samsung is strong in the wireless earbuds market with its Galaxy Buds lineup, it has been missing from the over-ear segment. This move is part of the company's strategy to strengthen its presence in the premium audio market.

## Technical specifications and innovations

The headphones are expected to support Samsung Seamless Codec Ultra High Quality (SSC UHQ) codec, compatible only with 2023 and newer Galaxy phones and tablets. They will also include AI assistant support like Gemini and Bixby, similar to what we saw in Galaxy Buds 4 Pro. The design will feature wireless Bluetooth over-ear functionality.

## Design and user experience

Code in the Galaxy Wearable app reveals the basic design framework, though the final appearance remains unconfirmed. Features like adaptive audio and live translation, similar to Apple's recent AirPods Max 2 update, are anticipated. This product will strategically fill a gap in Samsung's current audio portfolio.

## Market timing and strategy

Samsung's 2027 launch timing aligns with annual refresh cycles in the audio market. The company aims to target premium segment customers to improve profit margins. The combination of Harman's audio technologies with Samsung's engineering will create the product's competitive edge.

## Consumer electronics market competition

The premium headphone market exceeded $15 billion by 2026, with Apple leading at 35% market share. Samsung's entry could significantly alter market share distribution, particularly by offering Android users a high-quality alternative in this space.

## Technology integrations

Galaxy H1 is expected to offer deep integration with the Samsung ecosystem. Features like seamless switching between devices, multi-device connectivity, and Galaxy AI capabilities will stand out. This integration may also drive demand for other Samsung products.

## Industry significance

Samsung's move means increased competition in the premium audio market. Consumers will benefit from more choices and potential price competition. This development could accelerate innovation in audio technologies and increase AI integrations across the industry.

## Sources covering this story

- https://www.theverge.com/gadgets/980547/samsung-galaxy-h1-over-ear-headphones — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._