It looks like we just got our first sneak peek at Samsung’s next big thing in audio. Hidden deep inside the code for the new One UI 8.5 software, animations have surfaced that appear to reveal the upcoming Galaxy Buds 4 Pro.
These new earbuds are expected to launch alongside the Galaxy S26 series in early 2026. And from the looks of it, Samsung is planning a major overhaul. We’re talking a whole new look, a new case, and some very cool hands-free controls that could be a game-changer.
A Sleeker, Flatter Look
If you’re familiar with the current Buds 3 Pro, you’ll notice the change right away. Samsung is apparently sticking with the “stem” design, but they’re making it much sleeker. The animations show a flatter, more refined stem, ditching the sharp triangular shape of the current model.
The little light bar on the stem also seems to be gone, though the popular pinch controls look like they’re staying. The charging case is getting a redesign, too. Instead of dropping the buds in vertically, the animations show them lying flat inside.
Answer Calls with a Nod
The coolest new feature found in the code is a new control system called “Head Gestures.” Just as it sounds, this will reportedly let you control your buds just by moving your head.
Imagine an incoming call—instead of fumbling for your phone or tapping the bud, you could just nod to answer it or shake your head to decline. The code suggests this could also work for silencing alarms, reading notifications, or even answering “yes or no” questions from an AI assistant.
More Pro Upgrades
The leaks also hint at a few other “Pro” features. The animations show options for 360-degree recording (which sounds great for creators), improved Adaptive Noise Control, and a “Find Your Phone” function.
We even learned the supposed internal codename for the new buds. The standard Buds 4 are reportedly called “Handel,” while the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro is nicknamed “Bach.”
Of course, Samsung hasn’t said a word about any of this officially. But with a likely debut in early 2026, we expect to hear a lot more in the coming months.
