To pair Samsung wireless earbuds, the method you use depends entirely on whether you have an Android phone or an iPhone, and on your specific earbud model.
How to pair Samsung wireless earbuds: Android vs. iPhone
The pairing process splits into two main paths based on your phone type and earbud model. Android users can often use an automatic pop-up or the Galaxy Wearable app, while iPhone users must use the Samsung Galaxy Buds app for supported models or standard Bluetooth settings. The key apps to know are Galaxy Wearable (for Android), SmartThings (for the automatic pop-up on Samsung phones), and Samsung Galaxy Buds (for iOS).
Pairing your Samsung earbuds with an Android phone
There are two methods for Android, depending on your phone brand. Samsung says the Galaxy Wearable app is now used to connect Galaxy Buds directly through Bluetooth settings on compatible Android devices, instead of pairing through the app in some cases.
Automatic pop-up (Samsung Galaxy phones only)
If you have a Samsung mobile device running Android 7.1.1 or higher with the SmartThings app installed, opening the charging case will trigger a connection pop-up. To use this method: download SmartThings from Galaxy Store or Google Play, open the Galaxy Buds charging case, tap Connect in the pop-up, and follow the on-screen instructions.
Manual Galaxy Wearable app (all other Android devices)
For non-Samsung Android devices, or if the pop-up does not appear, use the Galaxy Wearable app. Install the app from Google Play (it requires Android 5.0 or later with 1.5 GB or more of memory). Open the app, tap Start the Journey, then tap Galaxy Buds. Grant permissions by tapping OK, then open the charging case and wait for the earbuds to be detected.
Pairing your Samsung earbuds with an iPhone
iPhone users have two paths, again depending on the earbud model. Samsung Indonesia says Android support is recommended for Android OS 5.0 or higher and notes iOS devices connect through the normal Bluetooth menu.
Samsung Galaxy Buds app (for Buds+ and Buds Live)
Galaxy Buds+ and Galaxy Buds Live are compatible with the Samsung Galaxy Buds app on iPhone 7 or later. Open the Buds app, tap Get started, place the earbuds in the charging case, close the lid for 5-6 seconds, then open the case. Select the earbuds from the list of devices, confirm Bluetooth is on if needed, review the information, choose whether to send diagnostic information, tap Agree, then tap Got it and Confirm to finish pairing.
Standard Bluetooth pairing (all other models)
For Galaxy Buds not supported by the iOS app, or if you prefer not to use the app, use the standard Bluetooth method. Open the charging case, then go to Settings > Bluetooth on your iPhone. Make sure the Bluetooth switch at the top is turned on, and tap the earbuds under Other devices when they appear.
How to manually enter Bluetooth pairing mode
When automatic detection fails, you can force your earbuds into pairing mode manually. Two verified methods exist: press the button on the charging case for about three seconds until the earbuds enter pairing mode, or put the earbuds in your ears and touch and hold both earbuds’ touchpads until you hear a sound. Once in pairing mode, go to your device’s Bluetooth settings and select Galaxy Buds/Buds+ or the earbuds name from the available devices list.
Troubleshooting Samsung earbud pairing problems
If your earbuds are not found during pairing, check these specific fixes. First, ensure Bluetooth is turned on in Settings > Bluetooth on your phone. If the earbuds are not found, Samsung's support pages document checking if the earbuds are in pairing mode by pressing the button on the charging case for about three seconds, or on some models opening the case and waiting for automatic pairing mode. If using the iPhone app, remember to close the charging case lid for 5-6 seconds before opening it again. Make sure the correct app is installed for your device type: Galaxy Wearable for non-Samsung Android phones, SmartThings for Samsung phones, and Samsung Galaxy Buds for iPhone. As a last resort, reset the earbuds to factory settings, which will erase all pairing information and let you start fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reset my Samsung wireless earbuds?
To reset, put the earbuds back into the charging case and close the lid. Open the lid, then press and hold the pairing button on the back of the charging case for at least 15 seconds until the LED lights blink. Close the case, wait a few seconds, then open it again.
Can I pair Samsung wireless earbuds with multiple devices?
Yes, the earbuds can be paired with multiple devices, but they can only be connected to one device at a time. To switch, disconnect from the current device and pair with the new one.
Can I use Samsung wireless earbuds with non-Samsung devices?
Yes, any device with Bluetooth capability can pair with Samsung wireless earbuds. However, some features like the automatic pop-up or the Galaxy Wearable app may be limited or unavailable on non-Samsung devices.
How do I check the battery level of my Samsung wireless earbuds?
You can check the battery level through the Galaxy Wearable app on Android or the Samsung Galaxy Buds app on iPhone. Many connected devices also display the battery percentage or an icon in the Bluetooth settings.
For the wider topic, see pairing true wireless earbuds.
