Samsung prepares new headphone series after decade-long hiatus
Galaxy H1 set to rival AirPods Max in premium segment
1New headphone series incoming
Code strings in Samsung's Galaxy Wearable app reveal development of over-ear headphones to compete with AirPods Max. Dubbed 'Galaxy H1', the devices are expected to launch in 2027. This marks Samsung's first over-ear headphone attempt since 2015's Level On series. The move comes after Samsung's acquisitions of Harman and other audio brands, signaling renewed focus on premium audio.
2Design and connectivity features
Connection icons in the app indicate wireless Bluetooth over-ear headphone design, though final aesthetics remain unconfirmed. Current Galaxy Buds lineup lacks a true premium competitor to AirPods Max or Sony's XM series. The new series aims to fill this gap in Samsung's portfolio. Consumers anticipate luxury design and superior sound quality in this price segment.
3Competitive positioning
Apple recently refreshed AirPods Max 2 with new chip enabling adaptive audio and live translation. Samsung's Galaxy H1 is expected to counter with similar features, including exclusive SSC UHQ codec compatibility with post-2023 Galaxy devices. AI assistant integration (Gemini/Bixby) mirroring Galaxy Buds 4 Pro capabilities is also anticipated in this flagship product.
4Technical specifications
The Samsung Seamless Codec Ultra High Quality (SSC UHQ) promises high-resolution audio transmission, currently compatible only with 2023+ Galaxy devices. AI assistant integration will enable voice commands and smart features. Industry standards like wireless charging and active noise cancellation are expected baseline features for this premium product line.
5Market strategy
Following its Harman acquisition, Samsung has heavily invested in audio technologies. The Galaxy H1 series targets expansion in the luxury headphone market, likely priced competitively against AirPods Max at $500-$600 range. This strategic move aims to strengthen Samsung's brand positioning in high-end audio equipment and complete its ecosystem offering.
6Consumer expectations
Premium headphone buyers prioritize design, comfort and audio fidelity. Samsung's delayed entry allowed Apple and Sony to dominate this segment. Whether Galaxy H1 can challenge this duopoly remains uncertain, though it promises Android users a genuine premium alternative. Early adopters will scrutinize its noise cancellation and battery performance.
7Industry implications
Samsung's re-entry could spark renewed competition in the headphone market. The global premium headphones sector surpassed $15 billion in 2026. New entrants may accelerate price competition and innovation, particularly in AI-enhanced audio products. This could raise industry standards for sound quality and smart features across the board.
8Why it matters
Samsung's return to over-ear headphones after a decade could reshape the audio equipment landscape. A new competitor in Apple-dominated territory gives consumers more choice. The tech giants' audio arms race will likely influence future wearable technology trends, with AI integration becoming increasingly central to product differentiation.
Original article: The Verge — Samsung 10 yıl sonra yeni kulaklık serisiyle geliyor