Samsung Galaxy Buds 3

Samsung is no stranger to the true wireless earbud market, but with the Galaxy Buds 3, the company has made its most audacious move yet. Ditching the familiar bean-shaped design of its predecessors, Samsung has embraced a new stem-style aesthetic reminiscent of a certain market leader. But is this a case of imitation being the sincerest form of flattery, or have the Galaxy Buds 3 carved out their own identity with a host of new features and AI-powered enhancements? We dive deep to find out.

Specs and Features

The Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 come packed with the latest technology, aiming to deliver a premium audio experience.

Key Features Deep Dive

• New ‘Blade’ Design: The most noticeable change is the new stem design, which Samsung calls the “Blade.” This aims to improve microphone quality for calls and provide a more secure fit for some users. The Buds 3 Pro model even features a unique light on the stem.
• Enhanced Audio Quality: With a new 11mm dynamic driver and support for Samsung’s high-fidelity Seamless Codec, the Buds 3 deliver crisp, clear audio with a respectable bass response.
• Galaxy AI Integration: For Samsung Galaxy phone users, the Buds 3 unlock a suite of AI features. This includes real-time Live Translate for phone calls and an Interpreter mode for in-person conversations, making these earbuds a powerful tool for communication.
• Adaptive Noise Cancellation (ANC): The ANC on the Buds 3 is effective at blocking out a good amount of ambient noise, particularly in the low-frequency range. The “Adaptive” part of the feature automatically adjusts the level of noise cancellation based on your environment.
• Intuitive Controls: The “blades” of the earbuds feature pinch and swipe controls, which are responsive and easy to use for managing music, calls, and other features.

Pros and Cons

Product Comparison

How do the Galaxy Buds 3 stack up against the competition?

Q & A

Q: Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 work with iPhones and other non-Samsung Android phones?

A: Yes, they function as standard Bluetooth earbuds with other devices. However, you will miss out on key features like the Samsung Seamless Codec for high-quality audio and the full suite of Galaxy AI features, which require a compatible Samsung Galaxy device.

Q: How is the fit of the new design?

A: The fit is subjective. The new stem design is comfortable for many, but some users have reported issues with them staying secure, especially during vigorous activity. It’s recommended to try them on if possible before purchasing.

Q: Are the Galaxy AI features like Live Translate actually useful?

A: For those who travel or communicate with people who speak different languages, these features can be incredibly helpful and work quite well. They are a significant selling point if you are within the Samsung ecosystem.

Q: How does the battery life compare to other earbuds?

A: The battery life is competitive, offering a solid 6 hours with ANC on. While not the absolute best on the market, it’s more than sufficient for most users’ daily needs.

Q: Are they good for working out?

A: With an IP57 water and dust resistance rating, they can certainly handle sweat and rain. However, the security of the fit during intense workouts will vary from person to person.

The Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 are a bold and successful reinvention. While the design may be polarizing, the improvements to sound and call quality are undeniable. For users embedded in the Samsung ecosystem, the Galaxy AI features are a game-changer, offering functionality that competitors simply can’t match.

While they may not have the absolute best noise cancellation on the market, they offer a compelling overall package. If you’re a Samsung user looking for a feature-packed and great-sounding pair of earbuds, the Galaxy Buds 3 are an excellent choice. For everyone else, they are still a strong contender, but the value proposition is slightly diminished without access to the full feature set.

Not sure which headphones are right for you? Check out our in-depth Wearables Reviews and make a smarter choice today!

In a significant move for Apple Watch owners, Apple announced it will re-enable a redesigned Blood Oxygen monitoring feature for specific models in the United States. The functionality will be restored for users of Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 who purchased their devices after a sales ban temporarily removed the feature.

The restoration comes via software updates rolling out later today. To access the redesigned feature, users will need to update their paired iPhone to iOS 18.6.1 and their Apple Watch to watchOS 11.6.1.

This development marks the latest chapter in the patent dispute that led to the feature’s initial removal from new units sold in the U.S. The change was made possible by a recent favorable ruling from U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

The New Implementation: How It Works

The restored feature operates differently from the original version. While the Apple Watch’s advanced sensors will still measure the raw data for blood oxygen saturation, the actual calculation and processing will now be handled by the user’s paired iPhone.

Following the update, users will no longer see the immediate Blood Oxygen percentage on the watch itself. Instead, the collected sensor data will be securely transmitted to the iPhone, where the Health app will process it. The results can then be viewed within the Respiratory section of the Health app.

Apple has confirmed that this change will have no impact on two key groups:

• Apple Watch users who purchased their devices prior to the sales ban and have the original Blood Oxygen feature.
• Any Apple Watch units purchased outside of the United States.

These users will continue to experience the Blood Oxygen app as it has always functioned.

A Commitment to Health

In its announcement, Apple reiterated its dedication to user well-being, stating, “Apple’s teams work tirelessly to create products and services that empower users with industry-leading health, wellness, and safety features that are grounded in science and have privacy at the core.”

The company highlighted that the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 continue to offer a robust suite of health and safety tools. These include:

• • Irregular rhythm notifications and the ECG app for heart health
• • Sleep Apnea Notifications
• • Fall Detection and Crash Detection
• • Detailed sleep tracking with sleep stages
• • Wrist temperature sensing for cycle tracking
• • The Vitals app for an at-a-glance health summary
• • The Noise app for hearing health
• • The Medications and Mindfulness apps

This software-based workaround is a strategic solution for Apple, allowing it to navigate a complex legal landscape while restoring a highly valued health metric to its U.S. customers. Users with eligible devices are encouraged to install the iOS 18.6.1 and watchOS 11.6.1 updates as soon as they become available.

Check out all of our Wearable Technology Stories

Sony WH-1000XM6

Sony’s WH-1000XM series has long been the gold standard for wireless noise-canceling headphones, consistently delivering a blend of exceptional audio, industry-leading noise cancellation, and premium comfort. With the release of the WH-1000XM6, Sony aims to solidify its position at the top. Does it succeed? In short, yes, and then some. The XM6 refines an already winning formula, offering subtle yet significant improvements that make it the best noise-canceling headphone on the market today.

Design and Comfort: Refined Elegance

At first glance, the WH-1000XM6 maintains the familiar aesthetic of its predecessors, which is a good thing. Sony has opted for refinement over revolution, and it pays off. The headphones feel incredibly well-built, with a premium matte finish that resists fingerprints. The earcups are plush and deep, providing ample room for most ear sizes, and the headband is generously padded.

What’s truly impressive is the comfort during extended listening sessions. The XM6 are remarkably lightweight, and the clamping force is just right – secure enough to stay put without causing discomfort, even for those who wear glasses. Sony has also tweaked the folding mechanism, making them even more compact and portable for travel.

Sound Quality: Rich, Detailed, and Dynamic

Sony’s audio signature has always leaned towards a slightly warmer, more consumer-friendly sound, and the XM6 continues this trend with finesse. Out of the box, the sound profile is rich, full-bodied, and incredibly engaging. Bass is deep and impactful without being boomy or overpowering the mids and highs. Vocals are clear and present, while treble is crisp and detailed without any harshness.

For audiophiles, the XM6 supports Sony’s LDAC codec, offering high-resolution audio over Bluetooth for compatible devices. Even with standard codecs, the sound quality is exceptional, making every genre of music sound fantastic. The accompanying Sony Headphones Connect app also provides a robust equalizer, allowing users to fine-tune the sound to their exact preferences.

Noise Cancellation: Unrivaled Silence

This is where the WH-1000XM6 truly shines. Sony has once again pushed the boundaries of active noise cancellation (ANC). Whether you’re battling the drone of an airplane engine, the chatter of a busy office, or the rumble of city traffic, the XM6 silences the world around you with uncanny effectiveness.

The improvements are noticeable, particularly in the mid-range frequencies where human voices and general ambient noise reside. The XM6 seems to intelligently adapt to its surroundings, providing an even more immersive quiet experience. The Quick Attention mode, which allows you to cup your hand over the right earcup to temporarily lower volume and let in ambient sound, remains incredibly useful. The Speak-to-Chat feature, which pauses music and enables ambient sound when you start talking, is also a convenient addition, though some might find it overly sensitive.

Battery Life and Connectivity: Endurance and Reliability

Battery life on the WH-1000XM6 is outstanding. Sony claims up to 30 hours with ANC on, and our testing largely confirmed this. This means you can easily get through multiple long flights or a full week of commuting without needing to recharge. A quick 3-minute charge provides an impressive 3 hours of playback, which is a lifesaver when you’re in a hurry.

Connectivity is rock-solid thanks to Bluetooth 5.3, offering a stable connection and seamless pairing with multiple devices. The ability to switch effortlessly between your phone and laptop is a huge convenience for productivity.

Smart Features and App Integration: A Seamless Experience

The Sony Headphones Connect app is an essential companion for the XM6. It offers a wealth of customization options, including:

• Adaptive Sound Control: Automatically adjusts ANC and ambient sound settings based on your activity (e.g., walking, sitting, traveling).
• Equalizer: Fine-tune your audio profile.
• Speak-to-Chat: Toggle and adjust sensitivity.
• Custom Button Assignment: Reassign the ANC/Ambient button.
• Multipoint Connection: Manage connected devices.

These features, combined with the intuitive touch controls on the earcups, create a truly seamless and personalized listening experience.

Conclusion: The Undisputed Champion

The Sony WH-1000XM6 isn’t a revolutionary leap, but it’s a significant refinement of an already class-leading product. It takes everything that was great about its predecessors – the sublime noise cancellation, the excellent sound quality, and the supreme comfort – and elevates it further. While the price tag remains premium, the investment is more than justified for anyone seeking the absolute best in wireless noise-canceling headphones. If silence, superb audio, and all-day comfort are your priorities, the WH-1000XM6 is the undisputed champion.

Pros:

• Unrivaled noise cancellation
• Excellent, balanced sound quality
• Superb comfort for long listening sessions
• Outstanding battery life with fast charging
• Robust and intuitive companion app
• Premium build quality

Cons:

• Still a premium price point
• Speak-to-Chat can be overly sensitive for some

Rating: 9.8/10