• Samsung's first open-ear Galaxy Buds may finally be on the way, with a secure ear-hook design aimed at fitness enthusiasts.
• Leaked renders show a major design shift, ditching Samsung's traditional stem and bean-shaped earbuds for a workout-friendly fit.
• Expected features include USB-C charging, water and dust resistance, and possibly active noise cancellation.

Samsung may finally be delivering what fitness lovers have been asking for years: a set of Galaxy Buds built to stay put during workouts. Newly leaked images hint at the company’s first open earbuds, offering our best look yet at what might be Samsung’s take on the rising open-ear trend.

Beats and Shokz, among others, have long ruled the open earbuds segment with secure wraparound ear hooks, but Samsung has stuck with traditional stems and compact bean shapes. Now, fresh graphics discovered by SamMobile reveal a pair of earbuds with a distinctive ear-hook design that wraps around the outer ear. The buds are codenamed "Buds Canal 5."

The overall shape is very similar to products like Anker’s Soundcore workout earbuds or Shokz’s OpenFit buds. This isn’t the first time we’ve heard about Samsung’s open-ear earbuds efforts. Previous leaks have pointed to a clip-on design, under the code name “Galaxy Buds Able,” that will reportedly use bone conduction technology.

However, the latest hardware renders suggest Samsung is considering a different design. These earbuds are closer to traditional open-ear styles that direct sound into your ears while leaving the ear canal open. Users could also expect modern essentials like a USB-C charging case, dust and water resistance, and likely active noise cancellation.

The branding is still a bit of a mystery as well. Earlier leaks suggested that Samsung’s clip-on earbuds could launch as the Galaxy Buds Able, while more recent leaks have indicated the name Galaxy Buds On. Similarly, if the product is released to the public, Samsung may rename the Buds Canal 5.

Regardless of what Samsung ultimately calls them, the model number SM-U600 and repeated software references indicate the earbuds are a real product rather than an abandoned prototype. Multiple reports suggest that the earbuds have faced several delays.

If these leaks are true, Samsung is gearing up to enter a market already packed with the best workout earbuds and headphones.

Open-ear designs are smart if you want to be aware of your surroundings while you’re running, riding your bike, or commuting. That said, Samsung can’t afford to be late to the party with a “me too” product. Sony, Shokz, and Bose have already been here for a while, so good sound and a comfortable fit won't be enough on their own. If these are to stand out from the competition, Samsung will have to provide a compelling reason for people to pick them up rather than just a familiar logo on the charging case.

Jay Bonggolto always keeps a nose for news. He has been writing about consumer tech and apps for as long as he can remember, and he has used a variety of Android phones since falling in love with Jelly Bean. Send him a direct message via X or LinkedIn.