Samsung’s One UI 8 Revamps Audio Settings

Samsung’s One UI 8 update might bring considerable changes to sound customization on Galaxy devices, potentially integrating earbud controls directly into system settings. This shift could streamline the audio experience, but it might also limit control for users with multiple connected audio outputs.

Deeper Dive into the Changes

The forthcoming One UI 8 is set to overhaul the “Sound quality and effects” configurations on Samsung Galaxy products. The interface is expected to present itself differently, contingent on whether Galaxy Buds are connected. Samsung seems intent on incorporating Galaxy Buds controls directly into system settings, foregoing the need for the Galaxy Buds Manager app.

When Galaxy Buds are linked, the menu at Settings > Sound and vibration > Sound quality and effects will showcase controls specific to the earbuds. This approach contrasts with the menu’s behavior when no earbuds are active, where settings are tailored for the phone’s speakers or other connected audio devices. The phone’s speaker settings are then hidden, and cannot be altered while any Galaxy Buds are connected.

Among the most significant alterations, system-wide EQ settings are being replaced by those customized for Galaxy Buds, and Dolby Atmos settings are being traded for 360-degree audio specific to the Buds.

User Interface Comparison

The elimination of “Custom EQ” settings for some users has been reported, although Zac Kew-Denniss, an Android Authority contributor, confirms that Custom EQ is still accessible with the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro connected. This change could be problematic if several audio outputs are simultaneously in use. Experts estimate that over 60% of users now use Bluetooth earbuds daily, as of 2024 (Statista).

Additional Context

The update comes shortly after Samsung revamped the Galaxy Buds Manager app interface. This update grouped related settings into distinct sections, as tipster Tarun Vats noted on X.