Samsung continues to strengthen its position in the global audio industry with a new strategic move. After acquiring Harman in 2017, Samsung gained access to several well-known audio brands including Harman Kardon, AKG, Bang & Olufsen, and JBL, which produce a wide range of headphones, home audio systems, and automotive sound solutions.
Now, Samsung is taking another major step forward. Its subsidiary Harman is set to acquire Masimo’s Sound United, a company that manages several respected audio brands.
Bringing More Premium Audio Brands Together
Over the past few years, Sound United has built a strong portfolio of audio companies, including Denon, Bowers & Wilkins, and Boston Acoustics. Boston Acoustics is particularly known for providing original equipment audio systems used in many popular car models.
With this acquisition, Harman will gain access to these well-established brands, further expanding Samsung’s influence in both the consumer audio and automotive sound markets.
In the past, Samsung devices such as earlier Galaxy Buds models carried the “Sound by AKG” branding. Although the label was removed starting with the Galaxy Buds3 series, this new acquisition opens the possibility of future collaborations with other premium audio brands under Harman’s growing portfolio.
Strengthening Samsung’s Position in the Audio Market
The acquisition is valued at $350 million and is currently pending regulatory approval. Samsung expects the deal to be finalized by the end of the year.
According to Samsung, the move will significantly strengthen Harman’s lifestyle business division and help secure its leadership position in the global consumer audio market.
The company also highlighted the strong growth potential of the industry. The global consumer audio market, currently valued at around $60.8 billion, is projected to grow to $70 billion by 2029, creating new opportunities for innovation and expansion.
A Strategic Move for the Future
By bringing together multiple well-known audio brands under one umbrella, Samsung is positioning Harman as a major powerhouse in the premium audio space. This move could lead to new collaborations, improved audio technologies, and enhanced sound experiences across consumer devices, home entertainment systems, and automotive audio solutions.
Interestingly, Masimo, the company selling Sound United, is also known for its ongoing patent dispute with Apple related to health monitoring technology used in the Apple Watch.
Overall, the acquisition marks another important step in Samsung’s long-term strategy to expand its influence in the rapidly growing global audio market.
