Requirements to enable 24-bit audio on Galaxy Buds 4 Series
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro support 24-bit/96kHz Ultra High Definition (UHQ) audio via SSC codec, but this is only available when paired with newer Galaxy devices running One UI 6.1.1.
Samsung's latest True Wireless earbuds, the Galaxy Buds 4 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro, are notable for their support of ultra-high quality (UHQ) audio. This is a valuable upgrade for users with demanding audio quality requirements, helping to reproduce sound with more detail than standard wireless earbuds.
24-bit audio technology and proprietary SSC codec.
Specifically, the Galaxy Buds 4 series supports ultra-high-definition 24-bit/96kHz audio playback. To achieve this bandwidth, Samsung uses its proprietary SSC (Samsung Seamless Codec). In addition, the device integrates supplementary features such as 360-degree sound and live multi-channel audio, optimizing the multimedia entertainment experience.
List of devices compatible with the UHQ audio standard.
Despite having powerful hardware, the UHQ audio feature doesn't work with every Android device, or even all Samsung phones. According to the manufacturer, users need to use devices within the newer Galaxy ecosystem running One UI 6.1.1 or later.
| Product line | Supported models |
|---|---|
| Galaxy S Series | Galaxy S23, S24, S25, S26 |
| Galaxy Z Series | Galaxy Z Fold 5, Fold 6, Fold 7; Galaxy Z Flip 5, Flip 6, Flip 7; Galaxy Z TriFold |
| Galaxy Tab Series | Galaxy Tab S9 |
Samsung also noted that the list of supported devices may be expanded through future software updates.
Source factor and real-world experience
To fully exploit the power of the 24-bit/96kHz standard, owning compatible equipment is only a necessary condition. The sufficient condition lies in the music source. Popular services like Spotify or YouTube currently do not offer high enough audio quality to fully utilize the bandwidth of the UHQ standard. Users are recommended to use high-quality (lossless) music streaming platforms to clearly see the difference.
Currently, the Galaxy Buds 4 have a suggested retail price of around 4,990,000 VND, while the higher-end version, the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro, costs around 6,790,000 VND. Both offer a redesigned look, deep integration of AI features, and improved sound quality.
