Accusations of being Apple copycats have always haunted Android phone manufacturers like Samsung. While some of these accusations may hold true, Apple’s significant influence in the market and distinctive design language naturally inspire some level of emulation.
However, with the recent releases of devices such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra and the Galaxy Buds 3, it appears that Samsung may have drawn a bit too much inspiration from Apple – a sentiment echoed by Samsung Electronics’ Chairman Lee Jae-yong.
According to a report by AjuNews, Chairman Lee expressed his dissatisfaction with the designs of the Buds 3 and Galaxy Watch Ultra in a stern message to employees. An unnamed Samsung Electronics official stated, “The atmosphere within the company is quite tense due to the controversy surrounding the alleged design plagiarism of Apple in our recently released Buds 3 series and Galaxy Watch 7.”
Simon Cohen / Digital Trends
Upon reviewing the new devices, Chairman Lee remarked that they appeared “Apple-like,” particularly citing similarities to AirPods in terms of case design and fit. The resemblance between the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, Galaxy Watch Ultra, and their Apple counterparts is striking.
For instance, both the Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro feature stems akin to AirPods, and Samsung also included pinch and swipe gestures for media controls. The circular display and rectangular frame with an orange crown button on the Galaxy Watch Ultra bear a resemblance to the Apple Watch Ultra. These similarities have garnered ridicule from fans of both Apple and Samsung on social media platforms. Additionally, Samsung recently had to issue an apology for quality control issues related to the Buds 3 Pro.
According to a report by SamMobile, actions have been taken against the smartphone division, including Samsung MX leader TM Roh, although the specifics of these actions remain unclear. This move likely serves as a stern warning to Samsung’s smartphone division to refrain from copying and instead return to the company’s unique design language.
