Samsung has enabled Gemini AI functionality for its Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro earbuds through a software update to compatible smartphones, rather than the earbuds themselves housing the AI.
This long-awaited feature requires Android 16, the upcoming major Android operating system upgrade. Currently, the newly released Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 are the first Samsung phones to run One UI based on Android 16. Owners of these devices can set up Gemini by navigating to Voice Controls within the Samsung app and selecting “Set Up Google Assistant.”
While One UI is in beta for Galaxy S25 devices, owners of these models will need to wait for the public release of One UI to access the Gemini integration. Reports from 9to5Google indicate that the setup process has encountered issues, with some users on compatible devices, such as the Samsung Z Fold7 paired with Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, not seeing the option to integrate Gemini AI.
Despite the integration being facilitated by the smartphone, the ability to summon Gemini through the earbuds enhances their value as premium active-noise-cancellation devices without additional cost. As Gemini is a Google technology, its integration will not be exclusive to Samsung earbuds, though it provides a competitive advantage for Samsung’s current premium offerings.
