Samsung is set to launch its first bone conduction headset, targeting both athletes and mainstream consumers. Scheduled for a July debut at the Unpacked event alongside new foldable smartphones, the headset, codenamed “Able,” will utilize bone conduction technology to transmit sound through the skull, allowing users to stay aware of their surroundings. This innovative device aims to enhance comfort and communication, expanding the appeal of bone conduction technology beyond just athletes.
Samsung’s Upcoming Bone Conduction Headset
In just a few months, Samsung is poised to unveil its inaugural bone conduction headset. This innovative audio technology, increasingly favored by athletes, is gaining traction among mainstream consumers. The South Korean tech giant appears to recognize the growing demand and is ready to introduce its own product to the market.
Traditionally, summer is a prime time for Samsung to showcase its foldable smartphones along with its beloved connected devices like the Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Buds. This year, however, the company is expected to make waves in the audio sector with an exciting new offering.
According to reputable insider Digital Chat Station, the bone conduction headset is scheduled to debut in July, coinciding with the major Unpacked event where the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 will also be revealed.
What to Expect from Samsung’s New Headset
The device, reportedly codenamed “Able,” will have a yet-to-be-announced commercial name. It’s uncertain whether this new headset will be incorporated into the existing Buds lineup or if Samsung will establish an entirely new brand. From a linguistic perspective, naming a bone conduction headset “Buds” might seem illogical, yet marketing strategies can often defy expectations. Samsung may opt to unify its wireless audio products under a single umbrella brand.
Details about the design and technical features of this bone conduction headset have not been disclosed. What is clear is that it will utilize the fundamental principle of bone conduction, transmitting sound directly to the ear without the need for ear tips.
Bone conduction headsets, also known as open headsets or bone conduction earphones, remain relatively unfamiliar to many consumers, though their popularity is on the rise. Leading brands in this niche include Shokz (formerly AfterShokz), which has been active in the U.S. market for over a decade. Other notable companies include Finland’s Suunto and the Chinese brand Tayoto, offering budget-friendly options.
Philips entered this space with its first model in 2021, but remains a lesser player in the market. The growing interest from Samsung and other reputable audio brands could significantly boost the acceptance and popularity of bone conduction technology.
Understanding Bone Conduction Technology
As its name implies, a bone conduction headset transmits sound waves through the skull instead of relying on the eardrum. This technology allows sound to be perceived via vibrations in the bones of the inner ear. Typically, sound waves vibrate the eardrum, which then causes the bones in the ear to vibrate. However, bone conduction devices bypass the eardrum entirely, directly stimulating the inner ear bones.
The concept of bone conduction is not new; devices began emerging around 2008, primarily targeting athletes. Unlike traditional in-ear headphones that provide an immersive audio experience by blocking out external noise, bone conduction headsets enable users to remain aware of their environment. This is particularly beneficial for athletes, who need to stay alert to potential hazards while on the move.
These headsets also enhance communication capabilities. While modern high-end in-ear headphones may feature a transparency mode to allow ambient sound, this option is not always efficient or user-friendly. Comfort is another major advantage of bone conduction headsets. In-ear headphones can often lead to discomfort during physical activities or create a worry about falling out. With bone conduction earphones, there’s no need to insert anything into the ear canal, which appeals to a broader audience beyond just athletes. The absence of ear coverage, as seen in circumaural or supra-aural headsets, also adds to the convenience.