Yes—the Galaxy Buds3 Pro introduced Samsung’s higher-quality wireless audio mode. Launched in July 2024, the earbuds support Samsung Seamless Codec Ultra High Quality (SSC-UHQ), with audio support of up to 24-bit/96kHz. That is a real upgrade on paper from the Galaxy Buds2 Pro’s stated 24-bit/48kHz Hi-Fi capability, but it is not a universal Bluetooth feature: the phone, One UI version, app and source must all support the higher-resolution path.
What SSC-UHQ is—and what it is not
Samsung lists AAC, SBC, SSC and SSC-UHQ among the Buds3 Pro’s supported codecs. SSC is Samsung Seamless Codec; SSC-UHQ is its higher-resolution mode. Samsung describes the Buds3 Pro as supporting audio up to 24-bit/96kHz. See the official Buds3 Pro specifications and Samsung’s codec listing.
SSC-UHQ is a proprietary Samsung codec mode, not a new universal Bluetooth standard. AAC and SBC remain the broadly familiar alternatives, while SSC-UHQ’s main value is for compatible Galaxy phones and tablets.
Understanding 24-bit/96kHz
- 24-bit describes digital bit depth, or the resolution used to represent amplitude.
- 96kHz describes the sampling rate, or how often the analogue signal is sampled each second.
- Up to means a maximum supported path, not a guarantee that every playback session uses 24-bit/96kHz.
A CD-quality, compressed or otherwise lower-resolution source cannot become a genuine 24/96 recording because the earbuds support that ceiling. The streaming service, subscription tier, app and original mastering still determine what reaches the wireless link.
#1 Best Overall
- Compatibility & Battery Life: The Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are compatible with Android devices running Android 8.0 or later with at least 1.5GB RAM. They provide 5-8 hours of playback depending on Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) usage, and up to 18 hours with the charging case. The case supports wireless and wired charging, including Fast Charging technology for quick top-ups.
- Audio Features: Equipped with Bluetooth 5.4, the Buds 3 Pro support SSC HiFi and UHQ audio codecs, delivering 24bit/96KHz audio for superior sound quality. They also include 360 Audio with Direct Multi-Channel for an immersive listening experience, especially when paired with Galaxy devices.
- ANC & AI Features: The Buds 3 Pro feature improved Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and advanced Galaxy AI, which enhances functionalities like real-time language translation, personalized sound profiles, and environment-based voice optimization. (Note: Galaxy AI features require a Samsung Galaxy device for full functionality).
- Call Features: With enhanced Super Wideband (SWB) microphones and AI-based noise reduction, the Buds 3 Pro improve call clarity by filtering out surrounding noise and reconstructing lost voice bits, ensuring clear and uninterrupted communication even in noisy environments.Water & Sweat Resistance: These earbuds are IPX7-rated for water resistance, making them more suitable for workouts and outdoor use in varying weather conditions.
- International Model without Domestic Warranty. Optimized Features: The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are optimized for Android, particularly Samsung Galaxy devices, for advanced features such as 360 Audio, UHQ audio codecs, and real-time AI-based functionalities. While they are compatible with iOS devices via Bluetooth, certain features are exclusive to Galaxy Android devices.
How it compares with the Galaxy Buds2 Pro
| Model | Samsung-stated high-resolution capability | What the difference means |
|---|---|---|
| Galaxy Buds2 Pro | 24-bit/48kHz Hi-Fi | Previous-generation Samsung high-resolution specification |
| Galaxy Buds3 Pro | Up to 24-bit/96kHz SSC-UHQ | Higher supported resolution on compatible Galaxy hardware and software |
Samsung’s corporate documentation identifies 24-bit/96kHz UHQ as a Buds3 Pro improvement over the Buds2 Pro. The specification does not, by itself, prove that every listener will hear a dramatic change. The Buds3 Pro also add separate two-way speakers, adaptive EQ and updated voice-processing features, so perceived sound quality is not attributable to the codec alone. Samsung lists complex DNN/VPU processing and Super Wideband call support among the product improvements.
Which devices can use UHQ audio?
At launch, Samsung named these compatible families when running One UI 6.1.1 or later:
- Galaxy S23 and S24 series
- Galaxy Z Fold5 and Z Fold6
- Galaxy Z Flip5 and Z Flip6
- Galaxy Tab S9 series
The original compatibility announcement is in Samsung’s 2024 launch material. Support has expanded across newer Galaxy generations, but “Samsung phone” is not a sufficient compatibility test. Model, region and One UI release still matter. Samsung’s newer Buds4 Pro compatibility page shows the broader current Galaxy range, but it should not be read as a replacement for checking a Buds3 Pro owner’s exact device.
How to turn on Ultra High Quality audio
With the earbuds paired and connected, Samsung’s support path is:
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- Open the Galaxy Wearable app.
- Select Sound quality and effects.
- Tap Advanced quality and options.
- Enable Ultra high quality audio.
Samsung’s support instructions use “UHQ” in the heading and “UHD” in one instruction. Menu names can vary by One UI version and region; newer software may also expose the control in phone settings.
Rank #2
- EXCEPTIONAL AUDIO: Catch details like never before. Designed with a High-Res Audio¹ 24-bit hi-fi codec, the latest Galaxy earbuds maintain the integrity of your favorite audio over Bluetooth.
- TWO-WAY SPEAKER: Enjoy every audio experience to the fullest with two speakers in both Buds, including a tweeter for rich highs and a woofer for deep, full lows.
- HD VOICE: Enjoy clear phone calls with Galaxy Buds4 Pro and Galaxy S26 Series² —they work together to deliver crisp and clear conversations.
- ANC 2.0: Wherever you go, Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation 2.0³ intelligently adapts in real time to provide stronger, smoother noise cancellation wherever you go.
- OPTIMIZED COMFORT: Enjoy that just-right fit, with an improved, ear-hugging design and changeable ear tips.
If the switch is missing
- Confirm the Buds3 Pro are connected to the intended Galaxy device.
- Update Galaxy Wearable from the Galaxy Store or Play Store.
- Install any available Buds3 Pro firmware update.
- Update the phone or tablet to the latest supported One UI release.
- Reopen Galaxy Wearable and check the UHQ path again.
- If it remains absent, treat the device as unsupported rather than assuming the earbuds are faulty.
What happens with non-Samsung phones?
The Buds3 Pro can provide ordinary Bluetooth audio outside Samsung’s ecosystem, but that is different from receiving the full SSC-UHQ experience. Samsung says basic Bluetooth connection is broadly available, while advanced Galaxy Buds controls require a compatible Android phone and Galaxy Wearable; see its Buds3 Pro support page.
- Basic Bluetooth playback: generally available on compatible Bluetooth devices.
- Galaxy Wearable controls: require compatible Android hardware and software.
- SSC-UHQ at up to 24/96: requires supported Samsung Galaxy equipment and software.
- iPhone: do not assume full Buds3 Pro feature support; Samsung has not established the complete UHQ path for iOS in the cited compatibility material.
That makes the Buds3 Pro a less predictable choice for someone who regularly switches between Samsung, other Android phones, Windows and iOS.
Will you hear a difference?
SSC-UHQ can remove some resolution restrictions in the wireless path, but audibility depends on the complete system:
- The recording’s actual resolution and mastering
- The streaming service and subscription tier
- The source phone’s codec support
- Earbud fit, listening environment and hearing
- EQ, ANC, 360 Audio and other signal processing
What Hi-Fi? found the Buds3 Pro strongest with a compatible Samsung phone using SSC-UHQ while still performing well with standard connections. SoundGuys likewise treated the codec as an ecosystem-specific advantage, not a universal improvement. A volume-matched comparison is more meaningful than casually switching the setting and expecting an obvious transformation.
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360 Audio and head tracking
Samsung warns that head tracking may lag when UHQ audio is enabled. If spatial audio responsiveness matters more than maximum codec resolution, turn UHQ off and compare both modes. Samsung documents the interaction in its 360 Audio support guide.
Rank #3
- REDESIGNED WITH THE BEST SOUND IN MIND: Keep your Galaxy Buds3 Pro in with a design that delivers long-lasting comfort for an immersive listening experience
- A SLEEK DESIGN MADE TO SHINE: Let your sound shine as much as you do with Buds3 Pro that light up¹
- AUDIO THAT ADAPTS TO YOUR SURROUNDINGS: Immerse yourself while staying alert to your surroundings thanks to Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation with Galaxy AI²; Your Buds will automatically adapt to help you hear what matters²
- AUDIO TAILORED TO BEST FIT YOU: Immerse yourself in the best listening experience, no matter how you wear your Galaxy Buds3 Pro; An Adaptive Equalizer for Sound Optimization with Galaxy AI allows you to get the most out of your audio²
- SOUND THAT TRANSPORTS YOU: Your favorite content deserves our best and most immersive audio¹
24/96 does not mean lossless everywhere
Samsung’s wording is a maximum-resolution capability, not a promise of lossless playback for every app or track. A service may deliver a lower-resolution stream, resample the file or apply its own processing before Bluetooth transmission.
Should you buy the Buds3 Pro in 2026?
Samsung has released the newer Galaxy Buds4 Pro, so the Buds3 Pro are now a previous-generation flagship. The Buds3 Pro make the most sense when their live price is substantially lower and you own a Galaxy device that supports SSC-UHQ. You also get the Buds3 Pro’s two-way speaker design, adaptive EQ and Samsung-specific integration.
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Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteChoose the Buds4 Pro when the price difference is modest or you want Samsung’s newest hardware. It also supports SSC-UHQ up to 24-bit/96kHz on selected compatible Galaxy devices. Compare current regional prices rather than relying on a fixed figure, because the Buds3 Pro’s price and promotions change.
For iPhone owners, non-Samsung Android users or anyone demanding the same high-resolution codec experience across several platforms, prioritize earbuds with codec and feature support native to those devices instead of buying the Buds3 Pro for the 24/96 number alone.
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