Samsung Electronics has made it its mission to expand consumers’ options for wireless earbuds. In addition to diversifying the types of earbuds that consumers have to choose from, the company is constantly exploring ways to enhance key design elements, including everything from colors to form factors, while raising the bar for audio quality. The Galaxy Buds Live mark an exciting new chapter for the Galaxy lineup as the first ‘open-type’ wireless earbuds to feature active noise cancelling.

Check out the infographic below to learn more about how the Galaxy Buds Live compare to the Galaxy Buds+.

Samsung Electronics announced today that it is bringing new connectivity features to Galaxy Buds through a software update, available starting today.¹ Previously available on Galaxy Buds+, the features allow Galaxy Buds users to now go completely wireless and take their music more easily than ever before – whether it’s on a run, at your workspace or around your home.

Here’s a look at how these new features will enable you to do more with your Galaxy Buds.

Easily Pair Galaxy Buds with Your PC

With Microsoft Swift Pair feature, you can now more easily pair your Galaxy Buds to your Windows 10-based PC.² This allows you to utilize Galaxy Buds’ innovative sound quality on work-related tasks, such as remote video meetings, or listening to the music that helps you power through the workday. With the addition of Swift Pair compatibility, Galaxy Buds join Galaxy Buds+ to support multiple pairing experiences across mobile and PC devices,³ giving you the freedom to easily connect to, and switch between, your favorite devices.

Tune In, or Out, of the World Around You

With this update, and for the first time on Galaxy Buds, you can now experience Ambient Sound⁴ automatically. By simply putting your Buds on, you can now hear your surroundings and remain aware of the world around you, even when you’re watching movies or listening to your favorite tunes with the volume up. In addition, you can now experience Ambient Sound even with only one earbud in, giving you more options of how you tune in, or tune out, of your surrounding environment.

Instantly Listen to Your Personalized Playlist with a Single Press

Spotify users can now instantly listen to personalized music on their Galaxy Buds with a single press. Through a simple ‘Tap & Hold’ gesture, users can launch Spotify and start listening to music where ever you left off.⁵ Not feeling it? Tap and hold again and Spotify will recommend playlists just for you so you can effortlessly discover your new favorite song through your Galaxy Buds. With these updates, you can start playing your personal soundtrack instantly, as soon as you need it – whether you’re starting a workout or starting your day.

For more information about Galaxy Buds and Galaxy Buds+, please visit https://www.samsung.com/global/galaxy/galaxy-buds/ and https://www.samsung.com/global/galaxy/galaxy-buds-plus/.

¹ Available on smartphones running Android L OS or higher with more than 1.5GB RAM. Requires the latest version of the Galaxy Wearable app and the earbuds software.

² Available on PCs running Windows 10, version 1803 or above. Go to the ‘Bluetooth & other devices’ menu under settings on a PC to pair your Galaxy Buds.

³ Galaxy Buds support Samsung’s Easy Pair for mobile devices and Microsoft’s Swift Pair for PCs.

⁴ Ambient Sound can be pre-set and enabled through the Galaxy Wearable app, which can be downloaded via the Galaxy Store or Google Play Store.

⁵ Requires pre-setup. Go to setting and ‘Touch Pad’ menu to select your preference under the Galaxy Wearable app. This feature is available to users that have installed the latest version of the Spotify app on their smartphone, subscription fees may apply for personalized music.

Unlike wireless headphones, TWS earbuds have no wire that connects the two earpieces. Without the connecting wires, TWS devices present users with more freedom in movement and range on their day-to-day activities. However, like other mobile devices, long battery life and small form factors are key requirements for these wireless earbuds.

“TWS earbuds present elevated listening experiences for more users and the trend is rapidly expanding the mobile accessory market, creating new opportunities for device manufacturers,” said Dong-ho Shin, senior vice president of System LSI marketing at Samsung Electronics. “Samsung’s industry-first, all-in-one power management solutions optimized for TWS devices will allow manufacturers to craft new applications with greater flexibility.”

The MUA01 and MUB01 PMICs, respectively, have been designed for the charging case and the earbuds, and are one-of-a-kind fully-integrated solutions optimized for TWS devices. By combining several of the company’s in-house logic technologies, Samsung was able to integrate up to ten discrete components into one, including switching chargers and discharge circuits, enabling the PMICs to occupy less than half the space compared to previous alternatives. The compact solutions can allot more room to the battery for longer playback time and enable more flexible and efficient designs.

The MUA01 is also the industry’s first solution to support both wireless and wired charging in a single chip. For wireless charging, it supports the Wireless Power Consortium’s (WPC) Qi 1.2.4, the consortium’s latest wireless power transfer interface standard. To provide efficient power management, the MUA01 integrates a highly effective switching charger. In addition, MUA01 comes with a microcontroller unit (MCU) and embedded Flash (eFlash), offering the option of modifying its firmware to support other applications.

With power line communication (PLC) support, the new PMICs can communicate with each other over the charging pins. This allows the charging case and earpieces to share essential information such as battery levels and whether the earpieces are inserted in the case.

The MUA01 and MUB01 are currently in mass production and are featured in Samsung’s recently-announced Galaxy Buds+ TWS earbuds.

Featuring advanced speaker and microphone technology, all-day battery¹ and new customizable sound, navigation and fitting options, Galaxy Buds+ allow users to enjoy studio-quality audio on their terms.

A Next-Generation Sound Experience

With sound by AKG, Galaxy Buds deliver an innovative audio experience for on-the-go users, and Samsung is raising the bar once again for sound quality with the new Galaxy Buds+. In addition to AKG sound, Samsung Galaxy Buds+ are equipped with an innovative 2-way speaker system, complete with an added tweeter for richer treble and a woofer for powerful bass sounds. With Galaxy Buds+, every sound is balanced and clear, just the way it was meant to be heard.

For those who rely on their wireless headphones for phone calls and video conferencing, Galaxy Buds+ are fitted with three mics—one inner and two outer—for crystal clear voice capture. The exterior microphones use beamforming to hone in on your voice and tune out background noise so that you can always be heard, no matter where you are.

With improved Ambient Sound², users can tune out the outside world when they want to or amplify background noise when they need to stay alert by selecting from a range of new settings including low, medium, high or extra high.

No Outlet? No Problem

There’s nothing more disappointing than when wireless headphones run out of battery mid-podcast and there’s not an outlet in sight. Thanks to a powerful 85mAh battery, Galaxy Buds+ are the perfect companion for those who like to listen when on the go.

Galaxy Buds+ offer eleven hours of music playback,³ and you can double that to 22 hours just by placing them in the 270mAh wireless charging case – perfect for on-the-go listening. When users in a hurry need to recharge, quick charging capabilities can generate 60 minutes of playback in just three minutes by using wired, wireless, or device-to-device charging with Wireless Powershare⁴.

Stay in Control Easier than Ever

All-new customizable touch capabilities on Galaxy Buds+ allow users to stay in control even without their smartphone in-hand. A single tap can play or pause music; a double tap can skip to the next track or answer a phone call; and the touch & hold command can be customized to whatever other action users need the most.

For Spotify listeners, with Galaxy Buds+, you can continue listening to your favorite music instantly with a single press. Through a simple ‘Tap & Hold’ gesture, Spotify plays recommended music, curating based on your preferences.

Connectivity Meets Simplicity

Galaxy Buds+ make it easy for users to enjoy their wireless headphone experience across devices with just one simple set-up. Once paired with a Galaxy smartphone, Galaxy Buds+ are automatically available on all other devices tethered to the same Samsung account⁵.

Redefining how we experience sound, Galaxy Buds+ provide a simpler, more seamless way to listen. Now, the new earbuds are also iOS compatible so you can enjoy the latest features across more devices.

Galaxy Buds+ are always on, always connected, and always clear—so that you’re never left waiting for the content you’re craving.

¹ Average battery life of Galaxy Buds+ without charging is up to 11 hours, based on typical usage. Case provides up to another 11 hours of battery life for Galaxy Buds+ when Galaxy Buds are stored and charged between use. Battery life will vary.

² Features including Ambient Sound enabled through the Galaxy Wearable app on Android, available through Google Play Store, and the Galaxy Buds+ app on iOS devices, available through the App Store.

³ Average battery life of Galaxy Buds+ without charging is up to 11 hours, based on typical usage. Case provides up to another 11 hours of battery life for Galaxy Buds+ when Galaxy Buds are stored and charged between use. Battery life will vary.

⁴ Wireless PowerShare limited to Samsung or other brand smartphones and accessories with WPC Qi wireless charging. Check samsung.com for compatibility. May not work with certain accessories, covers, or other brand devices.

⁵ Connection pop-up window will appear only on Samsung mobile devices running Android 7.1.1 or later that have the SmartThings app installed. If the popup window does not appear, update the SmartThings app to the latest version.

Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition was created for those who are not afraid to make a statement—and who want their technology to be as iconic as their wardrobe. It features distinctive Thom Browne signature brand colors on a pebble grey exterior, pulled right from the runway, and offering all of the same innovative features as Galaxy Z Flip. To complete the look, the special edition device also comes with custom designed Galaxy Buds+ and Galaxy Watch Active2.

Designer Thom Browne demonstrates the new Samsung Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition in a groundbreaking foldable smartphone experience with sartorial style during New York Fashion Week (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Samsung Electronics)

Designer Thom Browne demonstrates the new Samsung Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition in a groundbreaking foldable smartphone experience with sartorial style during New York Fashion Week (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Samsung Electronics)

The new Samsung Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition package also includes custom designed Galaxy Buds+ and Galaxy Watch Active2 featuring the distinctive Thom Browne signature brand colors on a pebble grey exterior, pulled right from the runway (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Samsung Electronics)

Xiao Wen Ju attends unveiling experience of Samsung Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition at exclusive New York Fashion Week event at Sotheby’s on February 12, 2020 in New York City (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Samsung Electronics) 

Samsung & Thom Browne unveil the new Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition during exclusive New York Fashion Week even at Sotheby’s on February 12, 2020 in New York City (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Samsung Electronics)

Samsung & Thom Browne unveil the new Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition during exclusive New York Fashion Week even at Sotheby’s on February 12, 2020 in New York City (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Samsung Electronics)

Samsung & Thom Browne unveil the new Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition during exclusive New York Fashion Week even at Sotheby’s on February 12, 2020 in New York City (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Samsung Electronics)

Samsung & Thom Browne unveil the new Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition during exclusive New York Fashion Week even at Sotheby’s on February 12, 2020 in New York City (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Samsung Electronics)

Samsung & Thom Browne unveil the new Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition during exclusive New York Fashion Week even at Sotheby’s on February 12, 2020 in New York City (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Samsung Electronics)

Lance Fresh (R) attends unveiling experience of Samsung Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition at exclusive New York Fashion Week event at Sotheby’s on February 12, 2020 in New York City (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Samsung Electronics)

Nicholas Braun (L) attends unveiling experience of Samsung Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition at exclusive New York Fashion Week event at Sotheby’s on February 12, 2020 in New York City (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Samsung Electronics)

A limited quantity of Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition devices will be available in select markets. Pre-orders for the device will begin Feb. 14 on Samsung.com and Thombrowne.com, as well as at NET-A-PORTER and MR PORTER. The official launch will be in March.

For more information, please visit www.thombrowne.com, news.samsung.com/galaxy, www.samsungmobilepress.com or www.samsung.com/galaxy.

About Thom Browne

Thom Browne is widely recognized for challenging and modernizing today’s uniform: the suit. By questioning traditional proportions, Browne’s designs consistently convey a true American sensibility rooted in quality craftsmanship and precise tailoring. In 2001, Browne began his business with five suits in a small “by appointment” shop in New York City’s West Village and, in the years following, expanded his business to include complete ready-to-wear and accessories collections for both men (2003) and women (2011). Browne has also become known for his highly conceptual runway presentations which have gained global attention for their thought provoking and dramatic themes and settings. The brand is currently offered in over 300 leading department store and specialty boutique doors across 40 countries and through 31 directly operated flagship stores in New York, London, Milan, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai and Seoul. For more information, please visit www.thombrowne.com

Samsung Electronics and Thom Browne today revealed Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition, an exclusive collaboration from the leading technology company and iconic New York fashion brand. Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition draws on Samsung’s all new Galaxy Z Flip device and the fashion brand’s bold, timeless style to introduce a groundbreaking foldable smartphone experience.

“Partnering with Samsung to create Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition was an incredible opportunity to reimagine how consumers express themselves through their smartphone,” said Thom Browne. “We designed Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition just like I do my collections—with proportion, individuality and aesthetic in mind—to create the perfect blend of art and technology.”

Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition was created for those who are not afraid to make a statement—and who want their technology to be as iconic as their wardrobe. It features distinctive Thom Browne signature brand colors on a pebble grey exterior, pulled right from the runway and offering all of the same innovative features as Galaxy Z Flip. To complete the look, the special edition version also comes with custom designed Galaxy Buds+ and Galaxy Watch Active2.

“Working with Thom gave us the opportunity to make this stylish device even more covetable, bringing together Samsung’s latest technology innovations with Thom’s signature aesthetic inspired by his suits —the precision tailoring, the intentional use of materials, the elevated style that is uniquely his own,” said Stephanie Choi, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Marketing Team of Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics. “Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition is a marriage of our shared desire to delight people down to the finest details.”

Signature Style and Design

A grey Thom Browne suit transforms into the sleek Galaxy Z Flip exterior. The limited edition smartphone is the first of its kind to be encased in glass while still having a matte look that is soft to the touch and effortless to hold. Classic longwing brogues take a modern form with a grey pebble leather phone case, featuring the distinctive Thom Browne signature brand colors down the center. And, when unfolded, Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition reveals even more design details inside. Iconic blinds—a reference to the mid-century office aesthetic at the center of the Thom Browne world—appear onscreen every time the phone is turned on and off. App icons, labeled in classic text, create an elemental Thom Browne uniformity. And sound cues—a typewriter for the keyboard, an analogue ringtone, a shoe tap on a marble floor—create a unique soundtrack for the device. Custom Thom Browne wallpaper ties the entire experience together.

Coordinating Wardrobe of Accessories

From the minute they open the box, Galaxy fans are transported to a world of luxury and high style. Like opening a drawer to reveal a cache of treasured items, faille grey folding paper and Thom Browne’s signature brand colors create an all new fashion experience. Inside, consumers will find a Galaxy Watch Active2 with a grey leather strap and a Thom Browne custom watch face that lets you personalize your wellness with style. And for a complete connected look, Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition is finished off with Galaxy Buds+ in matching grey for a cohesive and connected experience on the go, as well as a specially designed leather phone case infused with Thom Browne’s iconic style.

A limited quantity of Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition devices will be available in select markets. Pre-orders for the device will begin February 14 on Samsung.com and Thombrowne.com, as well as at NET-A-PORTER and MR PORTER. The official launch will be in March.

For more information, please visit www.thombrowne.com, news.samsung.com/galaxy, www.samsungmobilepress.com or www.samsung.com/galaxy.

About Thom Browne

Thom Browne is widely recognized for challenging and modernizing today’s uniform: the suit. By questioning traditional proportions, Browne’s designs consistently convey a true American sensibility rooted in quality craftsmanship and precise tailoring. In 2001, Browne began his business with five suits in a small “by appointment” shop in New York City’s West Village and, in the years following, expanded his business to include complete ready-to-wear and accessories collections for both men (2003) and women (2011). Browne has also become known for his highly conceptual runway presentations which have gained global attention for their thought provoking and dramatic themes and settings. The brand is currently offered in over 300 leading department store and specialty boutique doors across 40 countries and through 31 directly operated flagship stores in New York, London, Milan, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai and Seoul.

Check out the infographic below for more information on the enhanced Galaxy Buds+.