Samsung Faces Design Echoes Controversy Across Wearables and Earbuds

Samsung Electronics faces intensified scrutiny over the feel and look of its latest wearables and audio devices. Reports indicate that the company’s chairman, Lee Jae-yong, expressed sharp concerns about what has been perceived as a shift in design philosophy within Samsung’s mobile division. The focus of his criticism centers on alleged design elements that echo Apple Inc.’s portfolio, particularly in the Galaxy Watch Ultra smartwatch and the Galaxy Buds 3 wireless earbuds. The conversations reportedly occurred as part of discussions within Samsung’s MX division, with a view to reassessing development plans in light of these accusations. The concerns were highlighted in coverage attributed to SamMobile and Aju News, and they have set off a broader debate about brand identity and product differentiation in a highly competitive market.