Samsung Galaxy S9 News Suggests Device Paired With Bluetooth Headphones

Conflicting reports about whether the Galaxy S9 will include a 3.5mm headphone jack continue as tech informant Ice Universe recently shared details that the device may sell with a pair of AKG Bluetooth headphones.

Previously, Ice Universe suggested the Galaxy S9 would include a headphone jack; however if the new rumor is true, Bluetooth earbuds accompanying the device could be a good indication that it won’t feature audio hardware. Currently, Samsung includes a pair of AKG branded 3.5mm headphones in its most recent devices, such as the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy Note 8.

Devices with no headphone jack are among the latest mobile trends with 2017 flagships, such as the iPhone 8, iPhone X and Google Pixel 2 all releasing sans 3.5mm port. Many rumors have suggested the Galaxy S9 may be Samsung’s first flagship without a headphone jack, but the company has also released a marketing spot making fun of Apple fans that need special dongles to charge their device and listen to music at the same time.

Google similarly made fun of Apple, when it originally removed the headphone jack from the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus in 2016, but then removed the headphone jack from its own Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL devices in 2017.

This ultimately makes it difficult to pinpoint what direction Samsung may take with the headphone jack on the Galaxy S9. If the rumors are true; however, including a pair of Bluetooth earbuds with the device would be a good move on Samsung’s part. Consumers would likely appreciate having immediate access to the ideal audio features for their device, as well as the option to purchase their own headphones if they so choose.

Apple, in particular, has been criticized for selling its iPhones that don't include a headphone jack without wireless earbuds. The devices feature a pair of Lighting adapter earbuds. However, Apple does include a Lighting to 3.5mm dongle with each iPhone.

When Apple announced the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, it also announced wireless earbuds called AirPods, which sell separately for $159.00.

Other conflicting rumors about the Galaxy S9 surround when the device will be announced. Current reports indicate the device may be unveiled during Mobile World Congress in February, while prior reports considered a January launch. There is also the possibility Samsung may opt for a late March launch like it did with the Galaxy S8.​