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If your Galaxy says a Bluetooth device is connected but sound still plays through the phone, first choose the device as the media destination: open the Quick panel, tap Media output, then select your headphones or speaker. If that does not work, check that Bluetooth audio is enabled for the device in Settings.
1. Select the Bluetooth device in Media output
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Swipe down from the top of the screen to open the Quick panel.
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Tap Media output.
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Tap the connected headphones, earbuds, or speaker to route current media playback to it.
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A Bluetooth connection does not necessarily mean the device is selected for media playback. Samsung’s Media panel guidance describes switching playback between the Galaxy device and connected audio devices.
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- BLUETOOTH CONNECTIVITY: Features Bluetooth 5.4 technology for stable, high-quality wireless audio streaming and seamless device pairing
- NOISE CANCELLATION: Active Noise Cancellation technology helps block out unwanted ambient sounds for immersive listening
- BATTERY LIFE: Extended playback time of up to 35 hours of continuous music playback for all-day entertainment
- MODEL DETAILS: Latest 2025 Galaxy Buds Core model (SM-R410) featuring modern design and intuitive touch controls
2. Turn on the Bluetooth device’s audio setting
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Open Settings > Connections > Bluetooth.
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Tap the settings icon beside the connected headphones or speaker.
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Turn on Audio. If calls are also coming through the phone, turn on Calls too.
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![Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro (2026) AI True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds, Black | Hi-Res Audio, 2-Way Speaker, ANC 2.0, Optimized Comfort, IP57, Live Translation [US Version, 2 Yr Warranty]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31fYusC+WQL._SL160_.jpg)
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro (2026) AI True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds, Black | Hi-Res Audio, 2-Way Speaker, ANC 2.0, Optimized Comfort, IP57, Live Translation [US Version, 2 Yr Warranty]- 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.
This device-specific setting is separate from choosing a destination in Media output. Samsung notes that when the headphones’ audio setting is off, sound can come through the phone or tablet speaker instead. See Samsung’s Bluetooth audio guidance.
3. If it is a car stereo, check Media audio support
Open the car’s Bluetooth device entry in your Galaxy’s Bluetooth settings and make sure Media audio is enabled. Some vehicles support Bluetooth calls but not music playback, as Samsung explains in its car Bluetooth troubleshooting guidance.
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![Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE (2025) True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds, Black | Active Noise Cancellation, Powerful Sound, Clear Calls, Long Lasting Battery, Hands Free AI [US Version, 2 Year Warranty]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31mSbwTb3uL._SL160_.jpg)
- OUTSIDE NOISE? NOT YOUR PROBLEM: Hear what you want and not what you don’t with improved Active Noise Cancellation¹,². And, when you wish to enjoy your audio while staying aware of your surroundings, switch to the Ambient mode and you’re set.
- YOUR EVERYDAY SOUND, NOW MORE POWERFUL: Galaxy Buds3 FE pack a bigger¹ 11mm dynamic speaker with deep bass and powerful sound that make everything from daily commutes to weekend playlists sound amazing.
- EVERY CALL, LOUD AND CLEAR: Confidently hear and be heard on phone calls with family and friends, thanks to the added microphone and enhanced background noise reduction¹ on Galaxy Buds3 FE.
- UNINTERRUPTED AUDIO WITH A LONG-LASTING BATTERY: Go long between charges with a long-lasting battery³. And, when it’s time to recharge, do it quickly and get right back on track.
- TALK TO GEMINI, HANDS-FREE: With hands-free access to Gemini⁴, smart assistance is always within earshot. No need to reach for your phone anymore as Galaxy Buds3 FE let you get help on the go, just by using your voice.⁵
If Media audio is missing, consult the stereo’s manual, vehicle manufacturer, or dealer to confirm whether the system supports Bluetooth media. Samsung also notes that the vehicle’s entertainment system may need an update.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.4. Check Separate app sound if only one app is affected
If music or video from one app still uses the phone speaker while other audio plays through Bluetooth, check Settings > Sounds and vibration > Separate app sound. Select the affected app and choose the Bluetooth device as its output. This feature can route a selected app separately from the phone’s main audio output; see Samsung’s Separate app sound instructions.
Rank #4
- BLUETOOTH CONNECTIVITY: Features Bluetooth 5.4 technology for stable, high-quality wireless audio streaming and seamless device pairing
- NOISE CANCELLATION: Active Noise Cancellation technology helps block out unwanted ambient sounds for immersive listening
- BATTERY LIFE: Extended playback time of up to 35 hours of continuous music playback for all-day entertainment
- MODEL DETAILS: Latest 2025 Galaxy Buds Core model (SM-R410) featuring modern design and intuitive touch controls
- Part #: SM-R410NZWALTA
5. Account for Galaxy menu differences
Menu names, feature availability, and screen appearance can vary by Galaxy model and software version. Samsung’s Media panel instructions apply to Galaxy devices running Android 10 or later, but your device may show different labels or options. If a setting listed above is absent, check the support guidance for your model and software version.
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