Last month, Samsung unveiled its new foldable phones, smartwatches, and wireless earbuds. However, following the launch, many people claimed that Samsung copied Apple due to the design language of its Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Watch Ultra. These claims caused a major crisis in Samsung’s mobile division and drew the ire of Samsung Electronics Chairman Jay Y. Lee.
According to AjuNews (@vialafaiel), Samsung Electronics Chairman Jay Y. Lee has called on the company’s mobile division Samsung MX to re-evaluate following these accusations. Lee’s strict instructions come after criticism that the Galaxy Buds 3, Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, and Galaxy Watch Ultra are similar to Apple’s AirPods, AirPods Pro, and Apple Watch Ultra. Lee’s personal intervention has increased tensions within the company.
Samsung has reportedly taken action against certain individuals in its smartphone division, including Samsung MX leader TM Roh. An inside source said that tensions have risen within Samsung MX following the move. “The chairman (Lee) personally intervened following Apple’s design copying controversy and quality issues surrounding the Buds 3 series and Galaxy Watch 7 launched last month. The internal atmosphere is currently very bad,” he said.
At the media briefing held at Samsung Store Hongdae in South Korea, reporters repeatedly emphasized that Samsung’s new devices look the same as Apple’s. The Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro have a handle similar to AirPods and other wireless earphones on the market. In addition, the pinching and swiping movements are similar to AirPods. The Galaxy Watch Ultra’s angular and thick design and orange theme are also similar to Apple Watch Ultra.
Further complicating matters are the quality control issues with the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. Some users have reported receiving units with irregular gaps and fragile ear tips that can tear easily. These issues suggest that Samsung’s quality control processes are also failing.
Jay Y. Lee, who usually has a calm demeanor, reportedly shouted in this situation and gave strict instructions to the Samsung MX division. Lee’s harsh reaction initiated a serious audit and restructuring process within the company. The steps Samsung will take to solve these problems are eagerly awaited.