Form
Follows
Sound

Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro Design Story

In modern design, it is commonly said that “form follows function.” Design should begin with the critical understanding of its function rather than aesthetic stimulation. Beyond its visually appealing aspects, the earphone must deliver a greater experience based on its fundamental functions.

The design elements of the Samsung Galaxy Buds are the result of meticulous research on the nature of the product, the users, and sustainable values. A round shape with minimal external resistance was devised for good sound quality, and its ergonomic design provides comfort when worn. In consideration of the impact on society and the environment, sustainable materials were developed and applied to the product. The Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro is a result of the efforts and deliberation of its designers that delivers a better experience by satisfying both visible and invisible values.

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The essence of earphones is in its sound quality.

External and wind noises are major factors of sound quality degradation for wireless earphones. Samsung Electronics designers undertook research on ways to reduce external noise and transmit a clearer sound for better sound quality, resulting in a solution derived from curves and round formations. This is the background behind the Galaxy Buds Pro’s streamlined design that resembles a fish cutting the current and a bird gliding through the wind.

Shaping Harmony with Sound

The Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro is round with no breaks and protrusions. This was intended to reduce wind noise that is generated when wind brushes around the microphone hole. Noise-cancelling technology is implemented internally to remove noise, and the exterior is designed with an aerodynamic structure to effectively reduce noise. Additionally, the round shape fits closer to the inner ear when worn, delivering subtle sounds without any exclusion of its details.

Structure that Captures Noise

Wireless earphones are utilized for both listening and speaking. They are useful for handling phone calls and voice control of smart devices while both hands are occupied. Samsung Electronics designers elaborately designed an internal structure that captures voice as effectively as emitting sound. Particularly, the distance set between the two microphones in the front was crucial. With the beamforming technology applied, the Galaxy Buds Pro vividly captures the user’s voice without interference due to the appropriate distance of the microphones within the smooth exterior.

“We approached both the exterior and interior design structurally for the best sound quality. The round shape is without protrusions to minimize wind noise caused by friction, and the closeness to the ear enables a clearer sound. The form factor is designed to effectively capture the user’s voice. Of course, the longer the distance between the microphones the better, but there’s limited space in your ear. By cooperating with the engineering team, we prudently designed the product to maximize the potential of a small and round form."

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The most important value is the user.

Wireless earphones are devices that are worn directly on the body. They are with you day and night, indoors and outdoors, or when exercising or eating. Designers studied the optimal size and shape that is suitable for any ear. In consideration of how the buds are worn and stored, the product was designed to provide comfort and a pleasing experience at every moment.

The Best Standards for the Ear

Ears come in all shapes and sizes. There are small auricles, narrow auricles, and just large sizes in general. Finding the appropriate shape and a design comfortable for everyone was challenging. Samsung Electronics designers extracted data based on research on various ear sizes and shapes. Since even the tiniest difference could considerably change the fit, several prototypes (RP) and mock-ups were produced to find the standard size and shape. In order to quantitatively calculate the fit, a questionnaire on stability and comfort was conducted and the survey results were reflected on the shape.

The Best Standards for the Ear

A Snug and Good Fit

Due to the absence of a wingtip, the Galaxy Buds Pro appears natural when worn since it fits snugly in the ear without protruding from any angle. The secret to being fastened without wingtips lies in its ergonomic design. Although every ear is different, there are three common points: the tragus that extends outward in front of the earhole, the antitragus across it, and the helix behind the earhole. When the product is settled around these three points, it can be firmly settled in without a wingtip. To achieve this ergonomic fit, designers sensibly designed the product from various angles and conducted numerous tests.

“The goal was not to create golden samples like tailoring custom suits for the selected few, but to provide a stable and comfortable fit that satisfies the majority. Based on researching a wide spectrum of people with various physical conditions, we were able to define a standard fit. Even if 8 out of 10 people were satisfied, we were relentless in our efforts to bring a comfortable fit for all users to the point of interviewing the discontent users to examine the cause of pain and discomfort in their ears when worn for a long duration.”

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We move forward together.

Today’s designs should pursue values beyond aesthetic looks and novel functions. Samsung Electronics designers treat designs with a long-term perspective that oversees products throughout their entire life cycle from production to disposal, and in the process, envision a better future with users. By creating virtuous cycles through the development and application of sustainable materials, Samsung’s designers will relentlessly seek solutions that can deliver better values.

The Cycle of the Buds

The eco-friendly ‘Post Consumer Material’ (PCM) was applied to the body and case of the Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro. Because the material is recycled from used plastic, harmful substances generated during general plastic production can be effectively reduced. Considering the shortcomings of repurposed materials that are fragile or easily deteriorated, the designers made great efforts to find optimized materials through various tests involving durability and aesthetics.

“Considering the strength and durability of the product, we use recycled materials at a 20% level. The fact that the product is not single-use has resulted in contemplation on how it can be used sustainably while retaining basic product standards. We will continue to challenge ourselves by researching various materials and undergoing design experiments in order to ensure sustainability even after its disposal.”

Samsung Electronics has steadily evolved the Galaxy Buds by encapsulating the values of time and customer needs. Over the course of this development, designers have expanded and deepened their thinking abilities by defining shapes that implement superior sound quality, comfort that brings pleasant usability, and a sustainable aftermath of discarding the product. As a result of relentless search, the Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro brings new value and experiences to customers’ daily lives.

Go to samsung.com

This is a promotional video introducing the design of the Galaxy Buds Pro.

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