Samsung, through its subsidiary Harman, has further solidified its standing in the global audio market following the acquisition of a number of prominent audiophile brands. This move builds on the Korean corporation’s already robust audio portfolio, which was boosted by an $8 billion deal to acquire Harman in 2016.
Samsung has significantly deepened its footing in the global audio industry by acquiring a host of legendary brands, including Bowers & Wilkins, Denon, Marantz, Polk, and others. These brands were acquired when Harman purchased Sound United, previously the consumer audio wing of Masimo. This move follows a significant legal payout by Masimo to Apple, amounting to $250.
The acquisition, valued at $350 million and initially announced in May, is set to further enhance Samsung’s already impressive audio brand offerings. Prior to this deal, Samsung, via Harman, owned such popular brands as Harman Kardon, JBL, and AKG. The purchase of Sound United is referred to as a “strategic milestone” by Harman.
While the acquisition of Sound United is undoubtedly significant, it is unlikely to bear immediate changes in Samsung’s product line. For instance, consumers shouldn’t expect to find a Bowers & Wilkins speaker or headphones included with the Galaxy S26. Sound United will continue to function as a standalone business within Harman’s lifestyle division. The intent behind this arrangement is to allow each audio brand to maintain its distinct identity.
Despite the preservation of individual brand identities, the newly acquired brands will have access to Harman’s resources to facilitate growth and expansion. Concurrently, Harman anticipates leveraging the expertise and talent that will be introduced via Sound United. This approach mirrors Samsung’s strategy with Harman, which operates autonomously.
While there is potential for Samsung to enhance its phone audio capabilities and dive deeper into mobile hi-fi, the overall market trend leans towards convenience. The majority of consumers prefer the comfort and ease of listening to compressed audio from streaming services via Bluetooth. This trend, which appears to have overcome the demand for high fidelity audio, is unlikely to change in the foreseeable future.
What brands did Samsung recently acquire?
Samsung’s subsidiary, Harman, recently acquired several prominent audio brands, including Bowers & Wilkins, Denon, Marantz, Polk, and others through the purchase of Sound United.
What impact will this acquisition have on Samsung’s product line?
The acquisition is not expected to bring immediate changes to Samsung’s product line. Sound United will operate as a separate business under Harman’s lifestyle division, and each audio brand will retain its unique identity.
What is the current trend in the audio market?
The current trend in the audio market leans towards convenience, with most consumers preferring to listen to compressed audio from streaming services via Bluetooth. This trend seems to have overtaken the demand for high fidelity audio.
