New photorealistic shots of Samsung’s forthcoming Galaxy Buds 4 Pro appear to show the earbuds for the first time, validating earlier cues and introducing one striking new detail: a loud metal grille on the outer edge.
The images, in line with recent firmware-based images related to One UI 8.5 assets, show the buds in black and white models which hint at a cleaner, more industrial design than we have seen in the past.
What the new Galaxy Buds 4 Pro images reveal in detail
The overall shape is reminiscent of the Buds Pro line: a squat, stemless design with a rounded body that nestles into the concha and an angled nozzle for a more snug in-ear seal. The charging contacts and proximity sensors are familiar, which is to be expected, but the outer face is cleaner and more uniform than on Buds 2 Pro.
This is a relatively new metal grille to behold. It’s a little bigger than average mic holes might suggest — possibly indicating a multi-function hole. The texture looks to be mesh — probably metal, for both sturdiness and air to pass through — and the design is very no-nonsense. (Or should that be all business?) You can clearly see “Pro” emblazoned so you know what’s what, but the styling doesn’t rely on gaudy accents.
The colorways are shown in glossy black and a soft white, each with fine differences between the shell and the grille. The case isn’t pictured here, but earlier software animations suggested we might be looking at a pebble-style charger with an LED status light up front and wireless charging capabilities.
The prominent metal grille and its likely practical roles
For a grille this size, there are many potential purposes. It also allows for more complex microphone arrays, which are used in hybrid active noise cancellation that combines feedforward with feedback microphones to better manage low-frequency rumbles and unpredictable mid-range chatter.
And it could work as a wind-noise baffle, just like the venting schemes found on high-end models from Apple and Sony. By controlling airflow around the mic capsule, earbuds can minimize wind gust distortion and enhance voice clarity outside — a common user gripe during real-world calls.
Finally, a mesh can also help in pressure equalization as well as occlusion reduction, so that we don’t get that “plugged ear” feeling while listening. It would also dovetail with smarter transparency and auto-switching between ANC profiles, given Samsung’s current features like Voice Detect and Ambient mode.
Expected Galaxy Buds 4 Pro specifications and features
There are no confirmed specs, although continuity is expected. The prior Pro model offered 24-bit audio with Samsung’s codec when used on compatible Galaxy devices, head-tracked 360 Audio and strong ANC; you’d imagine at least parity there, plus some LE Audio love in the shape of LC3 support (or even Auracast as the ecosystem develops).
Battery life is the wildcard. Flagships released in the past year or two, like Sony’s WF-1000XM5 and Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, also have good stamina even with ANC switched on. If Samsung can throw in an extra hour or two over the previous generation, and increase microphone SNR for clearer calls, that would be a genuinely meaningful generational lift.
Durability could also see an enhancement. Previous Pro buds had solid water resistance; the industry appears to be transitioning to dust ratings, also. It would be more in line with the gym-to-work grind, perhaps with an IP5X or more dust protection and without sacrificing its ability to thrive amidst sidewalk-falling snow.
Market context, competition, and likely launch timing
Samsung usually pairs new audio gear around its big phone launches. Based on the cadence of previous Unpacked events, these images suggest that the Buds 4 Pro have come along nicely in the hardware pipeline, and we could expect to see formal details emerge through regulatory filings including Bluetooth SIG and FCC before any stage reveal.
Competition is fierce. Apple is believed to be still topping the charts in worldwide TWS shipment rankings and Samsung’s piece of that pie has hovered around 9% (which is a single digit) in recent quarters based on Counterpoint numbers. To be distinctive, such Samsung efforts would have to revolve around call quality, dependable ANC on noisy transit and serviceable ecosystem features — areas where incremental upgrades can play an outsized role for average consumers.
On the codec side, more widespread adoption of LE Audio among Android flagships will further move the goalposts. Seamless multipoint, low-latency gaming modes and broadcast audio at venues are rapidly becoming tick-the-box items among premium earbuds.
Bottom line on the latest Galaxy Buds 4 Pro image leaks
The most recent images give more confidence to the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro design story and show off a prominent metal grille that is likely a marriage of form and function. If it leads to cleaner calls and steadier ANC and transparency mode, that could be the visible clue to the most important upgrade. Keep an eye out for certification filings and packaging leaks to fill in the details as launch inches closer.