Samsung is planning to take on Apple’s fancy new AirPods with its own wireless earbuds that will launch alongside the Galaxy S8, according to a new report.
It’s thought Samsung is unlikely to follow Apple’s decision to drop the 3.5mm headphone jack, but it will still push wireless alternatives as they become increasingly popular.
Apple’s most controversial moves have a major impact on the technology industry. Its decision to launch the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus without a headphone jack will undoubtedly boost the adoption of wireless headphones, and Samsung wants a piece of that pie.
According to SamMobile, the South Korean company is planning new wireless in-ear headphones that will launch alongside the Galaxy S8 next spring. “Samsung is surely looking to put out a product that competes with Apple’s AirPods,” reads the report.
It is unclear if the earphones will be sold separately or bundled with the Galaxy S8, or whether they will include Harman Kardon audio technology following Samsung’s acquisition of Harman International Industries last month.
Samsung already offers wireless earphones, like the Gear IconX. But they don’t match the simplicity and reliability of AirPods, which can pair with an iPhone with just one tap, and use Apple’s new W1 wireless chip that improves connectivity and efficiency.
Despite their high price tag, AirPods have been well-received by Apple fans and critics. Tim Cook called them a “runaway success” during an interview with CNBC this week and said Apple is making them “just as fast as we can,” though they’re currently sold out worldwide.
