The Galaxy Watch 9 is now on sale globally, and while it has a slightly bigger battery and runs Qualcomm's silicon, the design is identical to last year. Samsung didn't change too much with the smartwatch, and it's the software where the brand focused most of its attention.

If anything, it's the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 that got most of the upgrades this time, and that's also understandable — last year's model missed out on any new changes. By that logic, Samsung should offer meaningful upgrades with the Galaxy Watch 10 next year, and while there isn't much in the way of information about the smartwatch at this moment in time, that will change over the coming months. In the meantime, I'm listing a few features that I want to see in next year's smartwatch.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 10: Pricing and availability

Samsung increased prices across the board this year, with the 40mm Galaxy Watch 9 starting at $379 (a $30 increase from last year), and the 44mm starting at $409 (also $30 higher than last year). The LTE models got the same $30 price hike, and while smartwatches aren't quite as affected by the RAM and storage crisis, it is entirely likely that the Galaxy Watch 10 will see a similar uptick in pricing.

That's just the way the industry is going, and with the RAM shortage set to continue well into 2027 and beyond, we could see brands raise prices next year as well. Obviously, it's too early to talk about what the Galaxy Watch 10 could cost, but I'm predicting a $399 starting price.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 10: What I want to see

The one upgrade I want on the Galaxy Watch 10 is improved battery life. Samsung put a massive battery in the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 while somehow making it thinner, so it shouldn't be difficult to do the same with the Galaxy Watch 10. While the Galaxy Watch 9 lasts two days, I want to see at least three days before needing to charge the smartwatch, and this is something Samsung needs to address next year.

In a similar vein, I want charging to be faster; Samsung doesn't quite do enough in this area, and that needs to change in 2027. I also want Samsung to increase durability to 10ATM, just like the Watch Ultra 2. A better selection of colors would be nice, as Samsung doesn't make all color variants available in all regions.

Also, we need a model with a rotating bezel. I still don't get why Samsung doesn't offer this as standard on one of the Galaxy Watch 9 models, and there isn't a Classic option this time either. Samsung must've noticed that the rotating bezel is an oft-requested feature from long-time users, so it isn't quite clear why the brand doesn't prioritize it.

Where Samsung has an advantage is with the software, and this year saw an influx of AI-assisted features. Of course, this isn't just with the smartwatches, with Samsung heavily pushing Galaxy AI on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and Z Fold 8. It is likely that Samsung will continue to lean into AI with next year's devices as well.

There's higher-than-usual interest in the Galaxy Watch 10 given that this year's model didn't have many upgrades, and I will update this post as soon as we have any tangible information around the 2027 model. In the meantime, if you need a smartwatch, the Galaxy Watch 9 is the best bet.

What you need to know

• Samsung has extended the Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 to five major Wear OS upgrades.
• The new watches launch with Wear OS 7 and One UI 9, meaning software support should continue through 2031.
• Samsung likely enabled the longer support thanks to the new 3nm Snapdragon Wear Elite chip.

Samsung has expanded the Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2's Wear OS software support to five years.

Samsung announced the Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 alongside its new Galaxy Z Fold 8 series at Galaxy Unpacked in London on July 22. While the new foldable phones grabbed most of the attention, Samsung's latest smartwatches also bring some meaningful upgrades, including larger batteries across both models.

But there are even more improvements that Samsung didn't spend much time talking about during the keynote, and one of them is the software update policy.

Samsung has already been one of the best Android smartwatch makers when it comes to software support. Until now, the company promised four major Wear OS upgrades and five years of security updates for its Galaxy Watches.

For comparison, Google currently offers only three years of software updates for the Pixel Watch lineup, so Samsung was already ahead on that front.

With the Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, Samsung has taken things a step further. As first spotted by SamMobile, the company has expanded the update policy to five major Wear OS upgrades, while continuing to offer five years of security updates.

That's one additional major OS upgrade over previous Galaxy Watches. It's also worth noting that both watches ship with One UI 9 based on Wear OS 7 out of the box. Assuming Samsung sticks to its promise, these watches should continue receiving major Wear OS updates through 2031, which would presumably take them to Wear OS 12.

Samsung didn't really highlight this during the launch event, but it's likely that the new Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset is one of the reasons behind the extended support. The new chip is built on a 3nm process and is claimed to deliver up to 32% better performance than the previous generation.

For anyone considering a new smartwatch, that's one more reason to look at Samsung's latest lineup. The Galaxy Watch 9 starts at $380 in the U.S., while the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is priced at $700. Both smartwatches will be available starting August 7.

Considering that we called the Galaxy Watch 8 the 'best Android smartwatch of 2025', it's no surprise that we've been eagerly awaiting the launch of the new Samsung Galaxy Watch 9. Now the big day has arrived, and Samsung's newest flagship wearable doesn't disappoint. 

The only problem is that the new smartwatch is a bit more expensive than its predecessor, which is why I was excited to see Amazon offer a free $50 gift card when you preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 ahead of its August 7th release date.  

Preorder the Galaxy Watch 9 and Amazon will give you a $50 gift card

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 may not look that different from its predecessor at first glance, but there are some significant improvements when you dig in a bit deeper. The 2026 watch is driven by the new Snapdragon Wear Elite chip, offering a notable performance boost when compared to the Galaxy Watch 8's Exynos processor. Battery capacity has also been upgraded, plus the Galaxy Watch 9 features all of the latest Galaxy AI features with some expanded health and fitness tracking capabilities.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 sports the exact same weight and dimensions as last year's model, which, considering how much we loved the Galaxy Watch 8, is a good thing in our eyes. The new wearable also features the same vibrant AMOLED display, 32GB of onboard storage, and dual-band GPS.

Does upgraded battery life and a new chip justify the higher price on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9? It's not for me to say. If you can find a good deal on the Galaxy Watch 8 and you don't mind using a last-gen watch, go for it. But if you want the latest and greatest model from Samsung, I can pretty much guarantee that the Galaxy Watch 9 won't disappoint. The free $50 gift card from Amazon is simply the cherry on top. 

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 vs. Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025: Pricing and availability

The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 made its debut at Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked launch event in London on July 22, 2026, and it is now on sale globally. The smartwatch retails for $699, and that's pretty decent when you consider you're getting 64GB of storage and a ton of new features.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 launched at $649, the same as its predecessor. Which is understandable as the smartwatch didn't actually bring any new features, and other than double the amount of onboard storage, it was identical to the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2024. Thankfully, that's not the case this year.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 vs. Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025: Design and features

Samsung is changing the design of the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 a little bit; the smartwatch has a squircle case that's made out of titanium, and the design looks a lot cleaner than the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025. Samsung is offering the smartwatch in Titanium Silver and Titanium Gray, and we'll need to wait and see if both models are available in all global regions.

What I like the most is that the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is significantly thinner at 10mm (versus 12.1mm); this was a big pain point with the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2024 and 2025 models, and it's good to see Samsung addressing it. Another change has to do with durability; the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 gets IP69K ingress protection, giving it added resilience against dust and water ingress.

You still get a massive 47mm case, and I like that Samsung didn't change this. The display is slightly bigger at 1.52 inches thanks to thinner bezels, and the resolution is also a little higher at 498x498 (Ultra 2025 has 480x480). But where the Watch Ultra 2 stands out the most is the overall brightness; Samsung is somehow touting brightness of up to 5,000 nits, and that's a significant boost from the 3,000-nit Watch Ultra 2025.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 vs. Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025: Hardware and specs

If I had to point to a single upgrade that makes the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 truly stand out, it would be the battery. The smartwatch comes with an 800mAh battery, and this is an area where Samsung absolutely did the right thing. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025's 590mAh battery is decent enough, but the much bigger battery should allow the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 to last even longer.

Powering the smartwatch is the latest Snapdragon Wear Elite, and this again is a big change; last year's model had the Exynos W1000, and the switch to Qualcomm should deliver better efficiency, boosting battery life even more. The smartwatch gets 2GB of memory and 64GB of storage as standard, and it retains similar connectivity as last year's model, including NFC.

Coming to fitness and health monitoring, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 gets Samsung's BioActive Sensor, and it includes all the hardware needed to monitor vitals and daily activity. You get Samsung's Wear OS 7 out of the box with One UI 9 Watch, and there's a lot to like with the software in general. Samsung is the way to go if you want the best Android smartwatch, and the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 continues that momentum on the software front.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 vs. Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025: Which should you buy?

There's no doubt in my mind: if you're ready to upgrade to a bigger smartwatch, you need to buy the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2. It has exciting upgrades across the board, and the thinner design combined with a bigger battery and brighter AMOLED panel make it a much better choice.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 is still a decent choice if you're able to get a sizeable discount, but of the two, I'd suggest getting the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 — it's just a better all-round smartwatch.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 vs. Galaxy Watch 9: Pricing and availability

Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and Galaxy Watch 9 at a launch event in London on June 22, 2026. Both smartwatches are now on pre-order globally, with sales starting shortly.

Like previous years, Samsung has two models of the Galaxy Watch 9: 40mm and 40mm. The 40mm model with Bluetooth costs $379, and if you need LTE, you'll need to pay $429. The 44mm Bluetooth variant is $409, and the LTE model is $459. There's a modest increase from last year, but the Galaxy Watch 9 is still an affordable choice.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, on the other hand, retails for $699, a $50 increase. You are getting an extensive feature-set, bigger battery, and titanium chassis, and that's reflected in the cost.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 vs. Galaxy Watch 9: Design and display

The Galaxy Watch 9 looks identical to its predecessor, and that's a good thing. You still get a smartwatch that looks great, and it's just as thin (8.6mm) and light (34g) as the Galaxy Watch 8.

Samsung didn't change its choice of materials either, so you get an aluminum case with a plastic housing on the underside to accommodate the BioActive module. Like last year, the Galaxy Watch 9 is sold in 40mm and 44mm variants, and Samsung is even selling the same color models. There's no rotating bezel on either device, but you get side-mounted buttons.

If you're looking to get a watch that looks different to last year, you'll need to pick up the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2. It has a significantly thinner design that looks much better this time, and the 47mm case gives it a dominating presence that you just don't get with the 44mm Galaxy Watch 9. It's made out of titanium, and has better durability as well — 10ATM and IP69K versus 5ATM and IP68 of the Galaxy Watch 9.

Coming to the display, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 gets a 1.52-inch AMOLED that goes up to a ridiculous 5,000 nits. The 44mm Galaxy Watch 9 has the same 1.47-inch panel as last year, and the 40mm model retains the 1.34-inch screen, with both going up to 3,000 nits. Outside of that, you don't see much of a difference between the two smartwatches.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 vs. Galaxy Watch 9: Features and specs

What's good to see is that both smartwatches use the Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear Elite. Ahead of launch, it was unclear if the Galaxy Watch 9 would come with last year's Exynos W100 instead of the new Qualcomm silicon, and Samsung did the right thing by using Qualcomm across the board.

While the hardware itself is exciting, Samsung turned its attention to the software this year, and both smartwatches have a ton of new health and fitness features. There's Energy Tracking, Sleep Apnea Detection, a new running-focused feature, and Vitals, a dashboard that gives you a broad overview of your vitals in one area.

You also get a new Nutrition Alert feature alongside Trail Run that measures detailed elevation changes and climbing progress. And as for the software, both smartwatches run the latest Wear OS 7 with Samsung's One UI 9 Watch. Samsung does a great job with the software in general, and One UI 9 Watch has the best feature-set of any Android smartwatch.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 vs. Galaxy Watch 9: Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and Galaxy Watch 9 is entirely down to what you need in a smartwatch. If you need a smaller watch that nails the basics and looks stylish, just get the Galaxy Watch 9. You're not missing out on the essentials, and this is a proven design that has worked really well for Samsung in the last two years.

But if you want a bigger smartwatch that grabs attention, you should get the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2. Yes, it costs a lot more, but you also get a bigger screen that gets much brighter, much bigger battery that lasts nearly twice as long, better durability, and a titanium design that looks exquisite. If I had to choose a model between these two, I'm getting the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 anytime — it's much more exciting.

What you need to know

• Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked in London is underway, and the company has revealed the Galaxy Watch 9 and Watch Ultra 2.
• The Galaxy Watch 9 is lighter with a more comfortable fit on the wrist, delivering major health features like Vitals and Heart Health Score.
• The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 continues its rugged focus for users who dive, run, swim, and more with new Trail Run and Diver-focused automatic tracking.
• Samsung has started pre-orders: the Galaxy Watch 9 (40mm, 44mm) starts at $379 for Bluetooth, while the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 begins at $699.

The moment we've been waiting for is here: Samsung's Unpacked revealed its next-gen smartwatches, and this is everything you need to know.

Today (July 22), Samsung held its Galaxy Unpacked event in London, U.K., to discuss what's next for its portfolio. Headlining the event are the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and the Galaxy Watch 9. The latter is where we're beginning this early morning. Samsung stressed during its keynote that the Galaxy Watch 9 is the "ultimate everyday companion." The watch has been upgraded for consumers who take their health seriously and are looking to "build healthy habits."

The Galaxy Watch 9's design sticks close to what we received with the Galaxy Watch 8. The device offers that squircle design: a circular watch face atop a square frame. However, Samsung states the Watch 9 has been equipped with a "lightweight, yet durable chassis." The watch has been refined for a closer fit against your wrist that is intended to feel more natural, enhancing comfort.

Internally, Samsung revealed that the Galaxy Watch 9 features Qualcomm's Snapdragon Wear Elite chip. The SoC's major highlights include improvements to the device's speed and efficiency, reducing the lag users might experience when swiping through the watch's UI. It also goes without saying that the Wear Elite SoC will help the Watch 9's 390mAh battery, too.

Unpacking Samsung's health features, the company states the Galaxy Watch 9 features a BioActive sensor, which captures "continuous biometric data about a user’s lifestyle habits to develop a deep understanding of their wellness." Users will find features like Sleep Apnea (FDA clearance-backed), Daily Cardio Score, Fitness Index, and Hearing, helping to protect their ear health.

What's more, Samsung reminds us of Vitals and Heart Health Score. Many might remember these two (the Hearing feature, too) from the Health app's huge update in June. Vitals will "proactively" watch the user's health baseline while they sleep to provide alerts about deviations. The Heart Health Score focuses on your cardiovascular wellness with a simple score that helps users understand if they should "take action."

If you're looking at the Galaxy Watch 9, Samsung says you'll find an assortment of new bands. Consumers can pick from Sports, Misty, and Fabric bands. Each offers a different experience, ranging from the thin, soft all-rounder Sports band to the soft silicone Misty band for a stable, bounce-free fit.

The Galaxy Watch 9 comes in 40mm and 44mm variants, starting at $379 for its Bluetooth model and $429 for its LTE version. Pre-orders begin July 22 before its full market launch on August 7. Samsung Care Plus is available to help protect your watch from damage, but there are extra goodies for consumers. A 60-day trial for Strava and a two-month iFIT free trial are available for the Galaxy Watch 9 after purchase.

Galaxy is going Ultra (2)

The bigger, rugged-oriented Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is finally here. Samsung is calling the Watch Ultra 2 its "most powerful and advanced Galaxy Watch ever." Extreme outdoor shenanigans and users who live for high-performance activities are who the Watch Ultra 2 is designed for. While the device sticks to a familiar squircle design, the company states it has achieved a "thinner, innovative" build. The Watch Ultra 2 is thinner by ~12% compared to the first version. There have also been improvements to make it lighter, too.

Runners and climbers might also benefit from the watch's shock-resistant titanium casing.

Inside, the wearable features Qualcomm's Snapdragon Wear Elite SoC and a huge 800mAh battery (a 35% boost over the first version). There are several activities the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 supports, but this update has divers in mind. To aid professional divers, Samsung says the watch is rated IP69K, 10 ATM, and EN13319 certified. The Watch Ultra 2 will track your diving data (depth, time, water temp) from the moment you enter the water.

Samsung has created an Ultra-exclusive Diving app that users can lean on for advanced features. The company states the app will be available later in 2026. For all the landlubbers, Trail Run is a Watch Ultra 2 feature that "tracks detailed elevation, climbing progress, and terrain impact..." Real-time hydration guidance is provided via Nutrition Alert, pairing nicely with Sweat Loss.

Like the Galaxy Watch 9, the Watch Ultra 2 features an assortment of new bands: Marine, PeakForm, and Trail. Samsung Care Plus and the free trials for Strava and iFIT are also available for purchased Galaxy Watch Ultra 2s. Consumers will find the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 for $699 for its 47mm size. You will also be able to choose between Titanium Silver and Titanium Gray colorways.

Pre-orders begin July 22 ahead of a full release on August 7.

After spending some time with the Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, it's clear that this is a year of refinement for Samsung. These watches are essentially upgraded versions of their predecessors, and while there may not be many differences on the outside, one major upgrade on the inside makes all the difference.

The same but different

In terms of design, Samsung didn't change much about the latest watches. That said, once you hold them or put them next to their predecessors, you might be able to spot the changes. The Watch Ultra 2, for example, is noticeably thinner than its predecessor, shaving off roughly 2mm despite its massive 800mAh battery; a 210mAh increase.

This means it feels a bit better on your wrist, which is also aided by the new watch bands. They're thinner and more malleable, allowing the watch to sit flatter on surfaces and provide a better fit on your wrist. That said, the Watch Ultra 2 is still quite heavy, and I can't imagine wearing it throughout its roughly 60-hour battery life estimate (with AOD on).

As for the Galaxy Watch 9, the dimensions are roughly the same as the Watch 8, but Samsung managed to increase the battery a bit. Thickness is the same too, making the Watch 9 much more comfortable to wear than the Ultra 2 and probably something I can see myself rocking throughout the day.

That said, the Ultra 2 is built to appeal to outdoorsy types and anyone with a more rugged lifestyle, and some new features are clear indications of such. Trail Run, for example, is an Ultra 2-exclusive feature that will track a run on a trail while monitoring elevation, total climb, and total descent.

And for serious runners, Samsung is upgrading the Sweat Loss estimation with a Nutrition Alert to help you stay adequately hydrated.

That extra-rugged design also means professional divers can use the Watch Ultra 2 to track their dives with a new Diving app coming later this year. I didn't get to see this during my hands-on, but Samsung says the Mares-developed app will track real-time diving metrics.

Oh, and the screen is apparently really bright, reaching a 5,000 nits peak. I couldn't test this out in my enclosed environment, but the brighter screen will definitely help with outdoor visibility.

The upgrade I'm most excited about in both watches is the new Snapdragon Wear Elite chip. It's Samsung's first time using a Snapdragon chip in its smartwatches, and it promises better performance, longer battery life, and better GPS tracking.

Qualcomm highlights improved AI capabilities thanks to the built-in NPU, meaning some AI tasks won't have to be routed to the phone. You can tell Gemini something like "what's my sleep score," and it will take you directly to the metric you're looking for in Samsung Health.

The new chip also enhances the capabilities of the BioActive sensor for enhanced accuracy and new features. Sleep Apnea insights, Heart Health, Daily Cardio Load, Hearing, and Fitness Index are all available on both watches to provide a more comprehensive look at your health.

Even without a Classic model, the Galaxy Watch 9 and Ultra 2 feel like they have something for everyone. The Ultra 2 feels like more of an upgrade, but the Watch 9 feels like the watch for most people and will still get many of the same features as the Ultra 2.

My hands-on time wasn't too in-depth, but we'll be reviewing both watches soon, so you can look forward to our coverage as we test these watches and pit them against some of our favorite fitness watches.

What you need to know

• Samsung teased what consumers can expect from the Galaxy Watch 8 a week before Galaxy Unpacked.
• The device is positioned as a health-first, always-on gateway for users, delivering heart insights, "all-new internal components, and enhanced battery."
• Samsung confirmed its Galaxy Unpacked will take place on July 22 in London, U.K., at 9 am ET/6 am PT.

Galaxy Unpacked is a little over a week away, and Samsung is starting to step up its teasers. The company's come forward with what consumers can expect from the Galaxy Watch 9.

In a blog post, Samsung neatly packaged what we can find from its next-gen "AI-powered health companion." Again, the company is trying to nail home how AI can become "meaningfully integrated into everyday life." Samsung wants to offer true support with the Galaxy Watch 9's AI, turning it into a health-first, always-on gateway. Such a gateway would open up new insights into your heart health.

Samsung's first teaser video opens with an electrocardiogram, beginning at a resting heart rate before quickening. The post highlights aspects of the watch we're familiar with: constant background activity and detailed insights. However, Samsung adds that the Galaxy Watch 9 has received "all-new internal components and enhanced battery life," as well as "increased accuracy" for its metrics.

While this will likely benefit its heart analytics, Samsung teases its Activity stats, too. The Galaxy Watch 9 will continue to track the user's rest, movement, and sleep with enhanced "AI-driven insights" for better real-time understanding. The final teaser is a tiny font blurb about the Galaxy Watch 9 before a magnifying glass slides into place over "All-new inside."

The folks at 9to5Google enhanced the image and found a couple of worthy highlights: a titanium build, a "personal health coach," and Gemini raise-to-talk, likely along the same lines as the Pixel Watch.

All will be revealed soon

We've known that Samsung had a few updates up its sleeve for the Galaxy Watch 9 after its Health app updated. The company announced that the Galaxy Watch 9 will come equipped with Vitals, a feature that combines five key metrics: heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, skin temperature, and blood oxygen. Vitals is also going to improve the daily energy score users receive by comparing it to their baseline to highlight changes.

Heart Health Score is another emerging feature for the Health app. This will observe a user's sleep, stress, activity, and body composition data to identify negative impacts.

All we have left to do is wait another week for Galaxy Unpacked. Samsung confirmed that its event will take place on July 22 in London, U.K., at 9 am ET/6 am PT. Reservations have also begun for the company's next wave of watches and foldables.

Android Central's Take

Focusing on health has been Samsung's M.O. with its smartwatches for a while now. I remember one of my colleagues' reviews of the Galaxy Watch 8, and he enjoyed it for the most part. One area that he felt could've been better was its battery life, and I'd have to agree with him. The good news is Samsung teased that the Watch 9 has better battery life. The thing is: how much better?

Prime Day has come and gone, but apparently Amazon missed the memo: the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, one of the best smartwatches on the market today, is still selling with a 33% discount on the retailer's site. That discount knocks the price of the 46mm watch down to its lowest price ever recorded, no strings attached.

This leftover Prime Day deal comes just weeks before the presumed unveiling of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 series later this month, but that doesn't mean it's not a great deal in its own right. For $335, you're getting one of the best-looking Android smartwatches ever built, with a rotating bezel, 64GB of onboard storage, and all of the latest One UI Watch software.

✅Recommended if: you want the features of a Samsung smartwatch with the look of a traditional timepiece; you like wearables with tactile features like a rotating bezel and physical buttons. 

❌Skip this deal if: you want to wait for the launch of the Galaxy Watch 9 on July 22nd (most likely); you have thin wrists or you want a wearable with a more sleek design. 

Don't let the hybrid design fool you: the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is all power under the hood. The hybrid watch boasts an efficient Exynos processor straight out of the box, plus you get 64GB of onboard storage, a fast-charging battery, and all of the latest health and fitness tracking features from Samsung Health. The 3,000-nit display is bright and easy on the eyes, while the rotating bezel and Quick Buttons are great for users who like precise controls on their watches. 

On the other hand, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic does have a pretty bulky construction that may not work for all users, and others may simply not enjoy the "squircle" design or 1.34-inch display. Aside from those nitpicks, the only real issue we found with the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic was its steep $500 price tag at launch. Thanks to this Amazon deal, however, that's no longer a problem. 

What you need to know

• Rumors claim Samsung is working on reworking its Wearables app with a redesign that's much cleaner and fits its current One UI aesthetic.
• The app reportedly revamps the home screen with a large rendering of the user's connected Galaxy Watch, minimizing the tab's options into containers.
• The Wearables app leak also highlighted new Health features, which Samsung discussed previously before rolling out to Galaxy devices in June.

There's a lot of buzz surrounding Samsung's upcoming products since we entered June (and now July). A new rumor now claims there's a Wearable app rework on the way for your Galaxy Watch.

Over the weekend, SammyGuru reportedly discovered an "early look" at what Samsung is working on for the Wearable app. Supposedly, the company is preparing to give the app a face-lift with a new design that matches its current One UI design. The publication states the Home tab could feature a much larger rendering of your Galaxy Watch.

Your watch image will take up most of your display, while other options are scaled down and placed in containers. Watch Face previews are said to benefit from this more immersive Galaxy Watch rendering. While the app's settings get a visual refresher that will likely adhere to One UI 9's upcoming themes, SammyGuru says it found some hidden features, too.

Samsung is reportedly working on a way for users to "raise their wrist" to talk to Gemini, instead of long-pressing their side button. What's more, Galaxy AI could generate "custom tiles" for the user's watch "based on their interests." The post adds that the app's early code suggests tiles for sports, headlines, and more. For the outdoor, rugged users (Galaxy Watch Ultra), rumors claim it could pick up real-time elevation info for Trail Run, companion controls for the Depth app, and more.

There's a lot on the way

The rumors mention new health features on the way to Samsung's next Galaxy Watches. The company already gave us a rundown of what we should expect from its Health app ahead of its next reveal. Aside from a major redesign (which has already rolled out to users), Samsung introduced new wellness features, such as Vitals. It states this will combine five crucial health metrics its watches capture about users. Vitals focuses on your heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, skin temperature, and blood oxygen.

Vitals will enhance the app's pre-existing Energy Score by comparing these metrics to the user's "resting baseline" to highlight any important changes. Heart Rate Score is another new feature that will be available with One UI 9 Watch and its next watches. Your sleep, stress, activity, and body composition data all matter, as Heart Rate Score highlights changes that could negatively impact your heart.

We don't have a beta yet for Samsung's One UI 9 Watch software, but rumors claim it could have health reports waiting when we get it.

Android Central's Take

I know these are just rumors, but the Gemini change is a little strange. I'm sure this will be an option we'll be able to toggle. But to automatically have Gemini called forth by simply raising my wrist, an action taken when I want to see the time, sounds weird. I'm fine with long-pressing the side button (if I were to ever use Gemini on my watch). The redesign looks nice, too, I suppose. It brings the app closer to the way Samsung's OS has been moving recently. In that regard, it's not bad.

What you need to know

• Samsung Health app has posted a notice, informing Galaxy Watch users in the U.S. that Vascular Load will disappear with v7.0 of the app and One UI 9 Watch in July.
• The company says it will replace this with "Blood Pressure Trends," which "periodically" checks your blood pressure to show your (potentially) changing trends.
• Vascular Load was a part of the Galaxy Watch 8's Preventative Care features and would measure your blood flow and vascular stiffness while you slept.

Samsung is reportedly informing Galaxy Watch users that they will lose a heart wellness feature in the next major update.

Samsung rolled out a notice in its Health app this week titled "Vascular Load labs feature to be discontinued." A user on Reddit brought awareness to this notification as it's likely to affect Galaxy Watch users soon (via 9to5Google). The company states that, starting with v7.0 of the Samsung Health app and One UI 9 Watch, Vascular Load will disappear for U.S. users.

Samsung states One UI 9 Watch is expected to debut this month (July). Users have started wondering when older devices (Watch 8, Watch 7, etc.) could see this patch. There hasn't been a beta for the watch software yet, despite Samsung's confirmed July release for One UI 9 Watch.

Replacing Vascular Load will be Samsung's "Blood Pressure Trends" feature. The notice says this feature will "check your blood pressure periodically to show you a trend over time. It will also give you tips to help support healthy habits." Samsung adds that these trends will be available on the next series, the Galaxy Watch 9. It stresses, as always, that Blood Pressure Trends is simply a "wellness-only" feature, and any concerns should be discussed with your doctor.

Preventative Care

Vascular Load was one of Samsung's Preventative Care features it highlighted for the Galaxy Watch 8. Many features under this umbrella focused mainly on the user's heart, and Vascular Load was no different. Its focus was to help highlight the strain on your heart. Samsung said the Galaxy Watch 8 used PPG waveforms to measure "your blood flow and vascular stiffness throughout the night."

A person's stress, diet, and sleep primarily affect this statistic. It states that, if left unchecked, consistent "high" Vascular Load could lead to more severe health problems. It's unfortunate to see this go; however, Blood Pressure Trends seems to piggyback off the main Blood Pressure monitoring feature. After months of talking about it and working to clear regulatory hurdles, Samsung rolled out Blood Pressure monitoring in March.

Users are required to use an upper arm cuff to calibrate their Galaxy Watch for the first time and then every 28 days after.

Android Central's Take

It's a shame this feature is leaving. Seeing a metric about the strain on your heart gives users another keyhole into their overall health. It's another piece of information to make you wonder if there's anything you should change, like your food or how much sleep you're getting. Understanding your blood pressure is as equally important. Who knows, maybe we won't miss this.

What you need to know

• A new leak claims the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 could pack a blazing 5,000-nit display.
• Samsung is also rumored to boost battery capacity from 590mAh to 800mAh.
• The next Ultra may get an IP69K durability rating, offering stronger protection against high-pressure, high-temperature water than the current IP68 certification.

Samsung is gearing up for the release of the next generation of its flagship smartwatch, and if a new leak is to be believed, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is coming in hot. Or, more exactly, bright.

Tipster Ice Universe, who has a good track record with Samsung leaks, revealed on Weibo that the company is working on a significant hardware upgrade for its next-gen wearable. The leak suggests the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 could be up to 5,000 nits bright at its peak. That's a massive jump from the current Galaxy Watch Ultra, which maxes out at 3,000 nits.

If it's true, it could make a real difference. More brightness means less squinting and fewer moments hiding the screen with your hand.

Battery life also looks to receive an upgrade. The leak says Samsung will pack the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 with an 800mAh battery, up from the 590mAh cell in the current model. This corroborates an earlier report, and it's a big jump in capacity and could translate into longer time between charges if Samsung backs it up with efficient software and hardware optimizations.

Samsung might be making the watch even more rugged as well. The Galaxy Watch Ultra already aims at those with active lifestyles, but the new leak suggests the sequel will get an IP69K rating. It is a more robust standard than the existing IP68 certification that covers high-pressure, high-temperature jets of water.

Samsung hasn’t confirmed any of these details, so take the leak with the usual dose of skepticism. But with the company’s next Galaxy Unpacked event looming on the horizon, we probably won’t have to wait long to find out how much of this report rings true.

Android Central's Take

Personally, I’d take these types of upgrades over another AI-powered smartwatch gimmick any day. I want to see a screen that’s actually readable in bright midday sun, battery life that makes me stress less about charging, and tougher protection long after launch day. My only worry is that Samsung can't count on incremental hardware improvements forever. There comes a point where brighter screens and bigger batteries aren’t enough, and the company will need to show why upgrading from the first Galaxy Watch Ultra is worth the investment.

When smartwatches are brought up, the Google Pixel Watch is the first topic of conversation. It shouldn't be, because Samsung's Galaxy Watch 8 is the all-around best Wear OS smartwatch around. I reviewed it last year, and spent my own money on one. The selling point for me was its size — it's only 8.6mm thick and sits comfortably on my wrist.

That meant I could take it more places and wear it more consistently, using the extra data to power my workouts and get better sleep. The price is surprisingly the best part. You can get a Galaxy Watch 8 for just $218 during Prime Day, down from the usual $350 sticker price.

That's about what I paid for my Galaxy Watch 8 at launch, and I had to trade in another smartwatch to get that price. You can get it with no strings attached.

• Prime Day 2026 is LIVE June 23-26: see the full list of deals

✅ Recommended if: You use Samsung Galaxy devices and need a Wear OS smartwatch; you need a thin and lightweight watch for fitness and health monitoring; you want longtime Wear OS update support.

❌ Skip this deal if: You need a smartwatch with the longest battery life; you want to wait for the Galaxy Watch 9, even though it'll cost much more.

I've tested many smartwatches, and I learned one thing along the way: the best smartwatch is the one you'll actually wear. Every other smartwatch felt too thick for me to wear for sleep tracking, and even some strenuous workouts. When I took them off, I missed out on data. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8's slim profile makes it ideal for your vacation getaways, summer workouts, or nightly sleep tracking.

It runs Wear OS 6 out of the box, and it's guaranteed to get four years of software updates. So, you can buy this watch for 38% off and it'll be updated to Wear OS 7 in a few months' time. A capable chip, Samsung's Exynos W1000, powers the entire experience.

On the inside, a Samsung BioActive sensor capable of handling optical and electrical heart-rate sensing monitors your underlying health metrics. There are also BIA and temperature sensors that help give you a complete picture of your health.

My one gripe with the Galaxy Watch 8 is that you need to charge it daily, but a quick recharge while showering should be all it takes. Aside from that, this is a current-gen smartwatch that'll stay up to date for years to come available for just over $200. I've used one for nearly a year, and I can't recommend it enough.

All Prime Day 2026 - quick links

• Phones: major savings on Pixel, Samsung, and beyond
• Wearables: up to 50% off Garmin, Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit
• Headphones/earbuds: huge discounts on Beats, Sony, and more
• Smart Home: up to 60% off Alexa devices
• Tablets: Galaxy Tab, Kindle, and Amazon tablets from $50
• Smart TVs: cheap smart TVs from $69.99
• Chromebooks: discounts on ASUS, HP, and Lenovo

My father is notoriously difficult to shop for. He likes tech, but he likes to stick with the classics. He rarely buys the latest and greatest devices, but he at least knows about them, and he's still young enough to keep up with today's tech. He also loves Samsung (like father, like son). So, when the time came to look for a Father's Day gift, two things came to mind: Prime Day and the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic.

Of course, I'm late to Father's Day, but that's what happens when Prime Day begins days later. I'm glad I waited, though, because the Galaxy Watch 8 is currently on sale with a 33% discount, shaving $165 off the price.

• Prime Day returns June 23-26: see the full list of deals

✅Recommended if: You want a powerful smartwatch with good battery life, tons of health and fitness features, and a classic design with a rotating bezel for navigation.

❌Skip this deal if: You don't want a heavy smartwatch, you own a Pixel (get a Pixel Watch), or you want a smartwatch that lasts for more than a couple of days per charge.

Samsung has on-and-off years with the Classic series of Galaxy Watches, and last year's Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is the best one we've gotten. It has a very fast, high-performance processor, so navigation is smooth as ever. It also runs Wear OS 6 with Samsung's UI on top, and we can expect Wear OS 7 to bring even more goodies.

But I think my dad (and dads like mine) will love it because of the design. Samsung tried something new by giving it a squircle shape, but the round watch face and metal chassis still give a classic style. And the best part is that you can rotate the bezel for easy navigation (or just to fiddle with).

Our reviewer said that he liked the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic's bezel "because its ridged design is more striking than past models; the 6 Classic's bezel is easier on the fingers but almost too subtle for anyone to see, especially with my Black model. This version's bezel is rougher to the touch, but still easy to turn."

I also think it will be good for my dad to have something to monitor his health and, hopefully, motivate him to get serious about exercising, as my favorite fitness tech products have for me.

What you need to know

• A leak claims to have discovered the alleged design for Samsung's Galaxy Watch 9.
• The device, reportedly featuring a 40mm and 44mm variant, could feature a similar design to the Watch 8, but with a slightly altered default band.
• Samsung confirmed during its huge Health app upgrade that many new features will be present in the Watch 9, while also stating the Snapdragon Wear Elite will power it.

We're expecting Samsung to release another wave of smartwatches this summer, and that's where this major leak leads us.

Alongside tipster OnLeaks, Android Headlines claims the Galaxy Watch 9 could feature a similar design to the Watch 8 from 2025. The tipster was credited with several leaked renders, showcasing a slightly refreshed smartwatch design. "Squircle" was a buzzword that accompanied many Galaxy Watch 8, and those continue for the 9. The alleged renderings show the circular watch face atop a brushed metal body. The watch appears thin, but it's not clear if Samsung's managed to shave down anymore.

Rumors suggest the Watch 9 will be available in two sizes: 40mm and 44mm. A closer look at the watch's display purports screen bezels similar to what we already have. Two physical buttons sit on the right side of the watch, as well. The publication adds that the Galaxy Watch 9 will feature Bluetooth and LTE connectivity.

While the watch seems mostly the same, the renders show the device with a slightly altered band.

A subtle divot rolls down the center of the band like a racing stripe, whereas the Galaxy Watch 8's default band is smooth with a soft, bumpy underside. Two colorways are expected for each watch size, beginning with "Cream" and "Graphite" for the 40mm and "Silver" and "Graphite" for the 44mm variant. Price increases were rumored at ~$50 more for this year's models.

Major internal changes

Galaxy Watch 9 rumors have been surfacing slowly, but a recent report has us paying attention. Samsung's next watches, alongside the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, were supposedly spotted receiving 3C certification in China for charging. It appears that Samsung will equip the watches with 10W wired charging support, similar to what we have with the Watch 8. Battery sizes weren't specified. It's unlikely to see them at 3C, anyway.

Aside from rumors and leaks, Samsung confirmed that there will be new health features available for its Galaxy Watch 9 with its Health app overhaul. The company kicked off its Health app update on June 8, introducing a new Vitals feature, incorporating Daily Cardio Load, Heart Health Score, and more. A Heart Health Score is also present to note how your sleep, stress, and activity affect you. Many of these new features and the updated Antioxidant and AGEs Index will be available on the Watch 9.

Moreover, Samsung's going back to Qualcomm. The next Galaxy Watch is confirmed to feature the Snapdragon Wear Elite, boosting the device in multiple ways.

Summer is a great time to reset your fitness goals, and the latest deal on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra might have just removed one of the biggest barriers to getting started. Thanks to Amazon's Prime Day sale, the smartwatch is currently $200 off.

I've always felt that the Ultra models from Samsung and Apple are a little hard to justify at full price. They're excellent Android smartwatches, but they're also expensive. If there was ever a time to pick up the Galaxy Watch Ultra at a more reasonable price, it's probably now. In fact, I'd argue buying it now makes more sense than waiting for whatever Samsung announces next month.

• Prime Day is back June 23-26: see the full list of deals

✅Recommended if: you want a rugged smartwatch with a titanium design, LTE connectivity, multi-day battery life, and Samsung's rotating bezel experience.

❌Skip this deal if: you prefer smaller watches, want the newest model regardless of price, or don't mind charging your watch every day.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra is still arguably one of the best Wear OS smartwatches you can buy. It launched at $650, which made it difficult to recommend to a lot of people, but this Prime Day discount changes that. With a 31% discount, the watch is now down to around $450.

And if battery life is important to you, the Galaxy Watch Ultra remains one of the strongest Wear OS options available. We reviewed the latest model, and while Samsung didn't change much, that's not necessarily a bad thing. You can still expect close to three days of battery life on a single charge.

What's also interesting is that Samsung recently updated Samsung Health with several new AI-powered wellness features. The Energy Score feature now works alongside a new Vitals system that combines metrics like Daily Cardio Load, Heart Health Score, and other health data into a single view.

Another major advantage is that this is the LTE version of the watch. That means you can leave your phone at home while going for a run and still stay connected. You also get features like Advanced Sleep Coaching, and Samsung backs the Galaxy Watch Ultra with a two-year warranty in the U.S., which is longer than what many wearables offer.

Of course, it isn't the perfect smartwatch for everyone. The Ultra is still a large and bulky wearable, and some people will prefer something smaller and lighter on the wrist. If that's you, there are other Prime Day fitness deals worth looking at, including the Fitbit Air, which is currently 20% off at $80, and the Oura Ring 4, which is down to around $280.

More Prime Day 2026 - quick links

• Phones: major savings on Pixel, Samsung, and beyond
• Wearables: up to 50% off Garmin, Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit
• Tablets: Galaxy Tab, Kindle, and Amazon Fire tablets from $50
• Chromebooks: discounts on ASUS, HP, and Lenovo
• Smart Home: up to 60% off Alexa devices
• Headphones/earbuds: huge discounts on Beats, Sony, and more
• Smart TVs: cheap smart TVs from $69.99

What you need to know

• A new leak claims Samsung is skipping the Classic model and shifting focus to the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2.
• The Galaxy Ultra 2 is rumored to feature a boxier body, slimmer display bezels, and a numbered outer ring.
• Leaked renders also point to a revamped Samsung Health app, a new watch face picker, and a dedicated compass interface.

If you were expecting a brand-new Samsung smartwatch with a clicky, physical rotating bezel this year, you’re out of luck. A new leak suggests Samsung is scrapping the rumored Galaxy Watch 9 Classic and is instead focusing its efforts on a revamped Galaxy Watch Ultra 2.

The latest rumor from tipster GalaxyTechie on X suggests your dreams of a 2026 Classic model with a mechanical ring are officially on ice, but you might get a more premium Ultra model with thinner bezels to make up for it (via 9to5Google). That’s a setback for early regulatory chatter and FCC docs that had fans hoping for a big dual-release this year.

Additionally, the rumor claims the Watch Ultra 2 will combine rugged durability with a much “boxier” chassis than its predecessor.

No rotating bezel comeback yet

The screen is also said to have thinner bezels, and the outer ring will reportedly have the numbers 1 to 12 stamped onto the surface. But don’t get your hopes up for a mechanical dial just yet — the leak hasn’t confirmed if this ring actually turns.

Samsung also appears to be fixing one of the most divisive design choices from last generation: buttons. The middle “Quick button” is said to lose its solid, toy-like orange coat. Otherwise, the rumor suggests you could get a wider, more flush button with a subtle orange outline accent.

The hardware itself is apparently getting a glow-up, too. The leaked renders give a good look at what is coming inside One UI 9 Watch. Samsung’s existing tracking menus aren’t the most organized, but an enormous overhaul could be coming to Samsung Health to help tidy up your daily metrics. The leak also reveals a brand new watch face picker and a dedicated compass interface, specifically designed to work with the new side button.

For those of you who like to personalize their tech, the colors are looking pretty sharp this year. Both the standard Galaxy Watch 9 and the Ultra 2 will apparently be available in a clean beige option. You could also grab a black version that comes with a deep bluish strap or a silver one that goes well with a green band.

We won't have to wait long to see if these leaks prove true. At the next Galaxy Unpacked event, which could happen sometime in late July, Samsung will probably unveil the whole 2026 mobile ecosystem.

What you need to know

• Samsung is reportedly rolling out its latest Wear OS security patch to U.S. users with a Galaxy Watch 8, Ultra, and Watch 7.
• The update is minimal, and separate reports claim it might only contain a series of security fixes to help the watches.
• Previously, Galaxy Watch owners reported severe battery drain issues brought on by Google Play Services, and it's unclear if this has been fixed yet.

Samsung's monthly run of security updates continues this week, as its smartwatches are reportedly getting their turn.

A report by SammyGuru provides the rundown, stating Samsung has started rolling out its latest Wear OS security patch to the Galaxy Watch 8, Ultra, and Watch 7. This patch, which, though it's arriving in June, bears May 2026 fixes, has been spotted for the Galaxy Watch 8 with vAZE1 and vBZE1 for the Watch Ultra and Watch 7 in the U.S. The publication speculates Samsung is simply keeping its watches updated and refreshed, as the download is ~200MB.

It's common for these updates to focus on major security fixes, and that's exactly where SamMobile's thinking goes. The post takes us back to May, which included a truckload of security fixes for Samsung's devices. Many of those are heading to the aforementioned Galaxy Watches this week in the U.S., bolstering their defenses.

Since this patch is seemingly all security-based, there's a chance users are still missing a fix to a crucial battery issue.

Galaxy Watch gets spruced up

There was a battery drain issue Galaxy Watch owners brought up in mid-April, which put the blame on an update the month prior. This issue wasn't as restricted as some might've hoped (though it's bad enough regardless). Reports cited battery drain problems across multiple Galaxy Watches, even down to the Watch 6 Classic. The Galaxy Watch 7 and 8 were involved, as well.

After the March update, users said their watch's battery dropped significantly quicker, and in-depth reviews show that Google Play Services was accountable. This background service was seen absorbing large amounts of battery power on devices not really doing much. Similar issues in the past required a patch from Samsung to fix, and it's likely we still need one.

On a health note, Samsung's Galaxy Watch achieved "Fainting Prediction" as part of its work to continue preventative features for users. In a collaboration with Chung-Ang University Gwangmyeong Hospital in Korea, the Galaxy Watch 6 successfully predicted a fainting spell. Samsung said it could do this with 84.6% accuracy and within five minutes in advance.

What you need to know

• A new leak claims the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 may pack a battery rated at 784mAh, potentially marketed as 800mAh.
• The Galaxy Watch 9 (40mm) is also tipped to receive a larger 382mAh battery, around 23% bigger than its predecessor.
• Qualcomm's Snapdragon Wear Elite chip is also expected to debut in the Ultra 2, combining improved efficiency with a larger battery for longer runtimes.

Recently, the 3C certification database revealed the charging details of Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Watches. Now, a new report claims the company’s next premium smartwatches could finally deliver on one of the biggest demands from power users: longer battery life.

A new report from SamMobile suggests the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 could have a significantly bigger battery. If the report turns out to be true, then this could be one of the biggest hardware upgrades the Ultra lineup has seen to date.

Battery life has always been a compromise on Wear OS devices. The original Galaxy Watch Ultra launched with a 590mAh battery, which was already one of the largest cells Samsung had ever put inside a smartwatch. In real-life tests, many owners managed to get almost three days between charges, putting it among the better-performing Wear OS watches in that regard. Still, competitors have continued to close the gap, and users have consistently asked Samsung for even more endurance.

Based on information uncovered by SamMobile, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 could be equipped with a battery rated for 784mAh. Samsung could push that number as 800mAh, a roughly 35% jump from the current model.

The larger battery reportedly won't be the only upgrade. The watch is also rumored to be paired with Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon Wear Elite processor. With a more efficient chip and a much larger battery, we could see noticeably longer runtimes than previous Galaxy Watch Ultra models. Some reports indicate that Samsung could offer more than three days of battery life.

Trickle-down upgrades

The leak also mentions improvements elsewhere in Samsung’s smartwatch lineup. The Galaxy Watch 9 (40mm) is said to feature a 382mAh battery, which is about 23% larger than the 325mAh cell in the previous model. Meanwhile, earlier reports suggest that the 44mm model could stick with a 435mAh battery.

Samsung is apparently prepping three new wearables for launch: the Galaxy Watch 9, Galaxy Watch 9 Classic, and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2. All three are expected to launch alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8 at Samsung’s next Unpacked event with retail availability most likely to kick off in August.

Android Central's Take

Battery life has been one of the most common complaints about Wear OS watches for years, and this potential upgrade seems more like Samsung finally addressing a long-standing request from many buyers rather than an unexpected bonus. If these leaks are true, then the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 could be a great upgrade, but giving users more battery after years of compromises does not exactly deserve a standing ovation.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 is finally here, and naturally, the first question that comes to mind is should you buy the latest model or settle for the older one? On the outside, not much has changed, but Samsung has given the Watch 9 some meaningful upgrades on the inside. A new Qualcomm processor, larger batteries, newer Bluetooth version, and a third color option.

While all that sounds great, remember that it's only been a year for the Galaxy Watch 8 and this is still a perfectly fine smartwatch. When the price cuts do eventually happen, the Watch 8 could be a far better value pick as it's not too different from the Watch 9.

Deciding between the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 vs. Galaxy Watch 8 can be easy, if you know where your priorities lie.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 vs. Galaxy Watch 8: Design and display

The Galaxy Watch 9 looks almost identical to the Galaxy Watch 8, and that's not surprising. The Watch 8 got a makeover only a year back, so apart from the new colors and few design details, there isn't any difference. It still comes in two sizes of 40mm and 44mm, with each having Wi-Fi and cellular options.

The Galaxy Watch 8 was pretty slim and light, and the Watch 9 features nearly the exact same dimensions and weight. The same ruggedness has also transferred over, which includes the IP68 rating, 5ATM water protection, and MIL-STD-810H certification.

Not everyone is a fan of the squircle design of the Galaxy Watch 8, but I personally think it looks quirky enough to stand out.

The Galaxy Watch 9 features the same displays as the Watch 8. The 44mm Galaxy Watch 9 has a 1.47-inch Super AMOLED panel with a 480x480 resolution, up to 3,000 nits of peak brightness, and a Sapphire Crystal glass cover. The 40mm version on the other hand has a 1.34-inch display.

The Galaxy Watch 8's display has been excellent when we tested it, and we have no real complaints here. Touch response is great, sunlight legibility is adequate, and colors are rich and vibrant. We're expecting similar performance from the Galaxy Watch 9 too.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 vs. Galaxy Watch 8: Hardware & specs

The big upgrade in the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 is the processor. Samsung has used the Exynos W1000 chip for the past two generations of Galaxy watches, and it has finally switched to the Snapdragon Wear Elite platform for wearables. More specifically, it's the SDW6100 chip which consists of five cores and is built on the 3nm process.

Compared to the W5 Gen 2 chip, it's said to deliver up to 5x and 7x performance for the CPU and GPU, respectively. The NPU is rated at 10 TOPS and can handle 2B-parameter AI models, making it well-suited to running Gemini Intelligence or even Gemini Live. The Watch 9 still comes with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, just like the Watch 8.

As for pricing, the Galaxy Watch 8 was already $50 more expensive than its predecessor, starting at $349.99. Samsung has held onto this price till now with only minor discounts on some shopping platforms.

The Galaxy Watch 9 has gotten more expensive by $30, which means it now starts at $379.99 and $409.99 for the 40mm and 44mm variants, respectively. The LTE versions for both sizes costs an additional $30. Earlier rumors did point to a $50 increase in price, so this is some consolation I guess.

Some of the other specs that has changed thanks to the new chip is Bluetooth 6. Dual-band GPS is present as well, just like on the Watch 8. The Galaxy Watch 9 uses the same health tracking sensors as the Watch 8.

Battery capacity has thankfully been upgraded. The one-day battery life of the Watch 8 was our biggest gripe, especially since at least a two-day battery life has become quite common for Wear OS watches. The 44mm Watch 9 has a 445mAh battery, while the 40mm version has a 390mAh capacity. Samsung is touting a 30-hour runtime with AOD (Always-on Display) enabled.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 vs. Galaxy Watch 8: Health & fitness tracking

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 already introduced a redesigned BioActive sensor for more accurate readings and the tracking of new metrics like Antioxidant Index, Running Coach, Vascular Load, and AGEs Index. The Galaxy Watch 9 can do all of these things, and more.

The Galaxy Watch 8 already does a fantastic job of tracking health and fitness data. In our review of the watch, we found that certain metrics like Energy Score tended to be overestimated at times. For instance, even when the score would be above 80, the watch would still suggest prioritizing rest. I'm hoping the Galaxy Watch 9 addresses these few shortcomings.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 vs. Galaxy Watch 8: Which one should you buy?

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 doesn't reinvent the squircle by any means, but upgrades to the processor and battery capacity makes it that much better. The new on-device AI features, snappier responses from Gemini, and more usage hours between charges are all nice things to have. The bump in price does hurt but all tech has gotten more expensive, no thanks to the rise in memory costs, so we just have to live with it.

If you're not sold on the new features of the Watch 9 and have a habit of charging your wearables daily anyway, I would confidently recommend getting the Galaxy Watch 8 instead. It's still a fantastic product with a lot of life left in it. It delivers excellent tracking performance, has a beautiful display, is lightweight and comfortable, and has a cellular option. Buy it once the price drops though as it's not worth paying full price right now.

If you're in the market for a smartwatch to complement your Android smartphone, Samsung Galaxy Watch and Google Pixel Watch are probably two brands that are at the top of your list. Both work best with the same brand phone with special features that you can unlock. But they can also pair with any Android phone since they are Wear OS devices.

When considering the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 vs. Google Pixel Watch 4, you'll have to weigh the pros and cons. If you own a Samsung Galaxy phone, the Galaxy Watch 9 seems like the most logical option. Ditto if you own a Google Pixel device for the Pixel Watch 4. But if you aren't tied to either ecosystem or have an Android phone from another brand altogether, you might be equally open to either.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 vs. Google Pixel Watch 4: Design and durability

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 launched at Galaxy Unpacked in London, alongside the next generation watch for adventurers, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2.

It retains the same squircle design the company employs for its Galaxy Watch 8. The Galaxy Watch 9 does not have a Classic variant, which was expected since Samsung usually only releases those every other year. It comes in Graphite or Silver for a 44mm size and Graphite or Cream for a smaller 40mm size, both made of Armor Aluminum with a touchscreen and digital bezel. It meets both 5ATM and IP68 ratings for water and dust resistance as well as MIL-STD-810H. You get both Bluetooth 6.0 and LTE connectivity as an option.

In terms of the battery, it has a 390mAh battery for the 40mm version and 445mAh for the 44mm, a slight increase from the previous generation Galaxy Watch 8. With a more efficient Wear OS and a better processor, it's possible the watch will last a bit longer than its predecessor, but we'll have to wait and see until we run our official review. Either way, it won't be groundbreaking: you'll still need to charge it daily or every two days. It's rated to last up to 30 hours per charge, even with the always-on display. The 44mm version recharges to full in about 90 minutes and the 40mm in about 80 minutes.

Over to the Google Pixel Watch 4, which launched in late 2025. It comes in two sizes, 41mm and 45mm. The 41mm size comes in a Polished Silver aluminum case with an Active Iris or Porcelain Active band, a Champagne Gold aluminum case with a Lemongrass Active band, or a Matte Black aluminum case with an Obsidian Active band.

The larger 45mm edition comes with a Satin Moonstone aluminum case with a Moonstone Active band, a Polished Silver aluminum case with a Porcelain Active band, or a Matte Black aluminum case with an Obsidian Active band. So, you have tons of choice in terms of both finish and band, and of course, can swap bands if desired for third-party options, too.

The Google Pixel Watch 4 has a side button and a haptic crown along with a built-in mic and speaker. In his review of the Google Pixel Watch 4, Michael L Hicks says he likes the crown but finds the side button annoying to press. The display shows a new Tile format with more information and shortcuts than in previous-generation Pixel Watches. Hicks says he actually prefers Samsung's multi-info Tiles design.

You get a 320ppi AMOLED LTPO 1-60Hz always-on Actua 360 display with a unique domed design. With up to 3,000 nits of brightness, it's comfortably viewable in all lighting situations, including bright, sunny days outdoors. The screen is durable, made of Corning Gorilla Glass, and the watch meets both IP68 and 5ATM ratings for dust and water resistance. So yes, you can swim in freshwater with it. However, the absence of sapphire glass means it's more prone to scratches and cracks than other smartwatches that use it, notes Hicks.

The Google Pixel Watch 4 41mm has a 325mAh battery, and the 45mm has a 455mAh battery, which provides up to 30 and 40 hours of use with the always-on display, respectively. But you can extend this to up to 48 hours with Battery Saver mode on the 41mm and up to 72 hours on the 45mm. That's not amazing compared to other smartwatches that last much longer, but it does work with a quick charger dock that Hicks says is "absurdly fast" at recharging it. The Pixel Watch 4 takes about 45 minutes to fully charge the 41mm watch and an hour for the 45mm. But with both, just 15 minutes will get you back to a 50% charge. So, not only does it have a more efficient battery but it charges more quickly than the Galaxy Watch 9 as well.

With a 4G LTE option, you can get a separate add-on cellular connection for the Google Pixel Watch 4 that lets you use it without your phone. It also includes Bluetooth 6, NFC, and ultra-wideband connectivity with satellite SOS communications in case of emergency. One important thing to note is that it's also repairable, so you should be able to easily swap components yourself if necessary.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 vs. Google Pixel Watch 4: Specs

Let’s look at how these two smartwatches compare when it comes to basic specs.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 vs. Google Pixel Watch 4: Health, wellness, and smarts

Both the Samsung Galaxy Watch and Google Pixel Watch function as great health, fitness, and wellness companions. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 runs on a Snapdragon Wear Elite 3nm, five-core processor with 2GB RAM.

The Galaxy Watch 9 continues to work with the Samsung Health app, which added tons of new features in June 2026 like vitals, daily cardio load, and fitness index. You already get tons of fantastic features through the BioActive sensor, like Running Coach, Vascular Load, and AGEs Index. Plus, there are Galaxy AI health tools.

If Samsung eventually adds a subscription tier, the company might have to offer more than simply hiding all these measurements behind a paywall. We'll have to wait and see if Samsung makes any such changes to the Health platform. One such addition could be non-invasive blood glucose monitoring, which is something Samsung has reportedly already been working on.

Samsung did recently announce a health assistant AI feature in beta, so there's definitely more in the works that could enhance the app experience down the line for both this smartwatch and others.

The Google Pixel Watch 4 is already a pretty solid smartwatch for health and fitness tracking with a Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 4nm processor that's wonderfully efficient. The coprocessor is efficient for running AI and background tasks, fueled as well by Wear OS 6. Hicks notices the improvement in battery life thanks to the efficient processing.

With the new Google Health app that is officially replacing the Fitbit app, you now get much more out of the Pixel Watch 4 than before. To take advantage of everything, however, you will need a Google Health Premium subscription, which is similar to the requirement for a Fitbit Premium subscription in the past anyway.

You, of course, get deep Gemini AI integration with tracking for all the typical metrics. It offers additional metrics like cardio load and recovery, and features like the ability to build your own custom runs and get real-time guidance. There's also the Morning Brief that provides key insights on data like sleep, weather, and readiness.

There are tons of upgrades with Google Health, notably Health Coach, an AI-powered trainer that can assist you through your fitness and health journey. You provide data like your goals, what equipment you have, and even provide photos, and it will help you build a proper plan.

You'll be able to pin favorite metrics to the dashboard in the app and integrate data from other third-party apps like Apple Health, Peloton, and MyFitnessPal. The base-level app will provide basics, but you need Premium for things like Ask Coach, adaptive fitness plans, more detailed sleep insights, medical record summaries, a library of workouts and mindfulness sessions, and more. However, if you already have a Google AI Pro or Ultra subscription, you'll get Google Health Premium included.

Beyond the revamped Google Health app, the Pixel Watch 4 offers some useful additional features, like loss of pulse detection, car crash detection, smart replies, the ability to see who's calling with a compatible device, a Pixel Camera app, the option to record voice notes, and even control a Google TV Streamer from the watch face. Some features only work with a Pixel phone, like the camera shutter remote and recorder app.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 vs. Google Pixel Watch 4: Which should you buy?

If you have a Samsung Galaxy smartphone and you're wondering about the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 vs. Google Pixel Watch 4, I'd suggest going for the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9. It's not a huge step-up from the Galaxy Watch 8, but the more powerful processor and hopefully more efficient battery in real-world tests along with the slightly refined design, durability, and seamless connectivity with a Samsung phone, make it a solid option to consider.

If you have a Google Pixel phone, however, the Google Pixel Watch 4 is already one of the best Android smartwatches you can buy, and it's only getting better with Google Health Premium. Yes, you need the subscription to unlock everything. But you may have already been subscribed to Fitbit Premium anyway.

If you're open to either, regardless of what phone you have or if you have another branded Android phone, it comes down to the experience. While Samsung seems to be working on more AI-enhanced options for its companion app, Google is already there with Google Health. That said, you need to pay for the subscription. For basic tracking and advanced metrics and vitals, both offer comparable experiences and specs.

If you have a Galaxy Watch that is several generations old, it's a good idea to upgrade to the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9. If you have a Google Pixel phone, the Pixel Watch 4 offers an incredible experience, and Google Health is one of the most comprehensive, AI-centric fitness apps around. Between the two, it really is a toss-up between ecosystems and app experiences since when it comes to hardware, they are pretty similar in specs, design, and capabilities.

What you need to know

• Samsung's Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 reportedly obtained charging certification in the 3C database for the Chinese market.
• It was found that the watches feature 10W wired charging, which keeps things identical to the last iterations.
• Samsung recently highlighted its major Health app rework for June, which includes features we can expect on its next Galaxy Watches.

Galaxy Watch rumors have been slow these past few months, but a new report claims Samsung's devices have just obtained an important certification.

A report by SammyGuru states it discovered a crucial 3C certification database listing for the Galaxy Watch 9 and the Watch Ultra 2. This certification concerns the Chinese market for devices; however, it typically involves battery/charging details that have been approved. According to its discovery, the Galaxy Watch 9 is listed with 10W wired charging support.

The publication found that the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 will also support 10W wired charging. It reiterates that these numbers are identical to the original Watch Ultra and the Watch 8. Battery totals weren't listed in this 3C database for the watches, leaving only our hopes and dreams for potential upgrades. The good thing here is this apparent listing, as it typically precedes an official reveal. We are expecting these devices at Samsung's summer Unpacked.

The publication made an interesting note, pointing out that there are rumors about a "Galaxy Watch 9 Classic." We saw this speculated as well by GSMArena, so this will be something to keep an eye on this summer.

Time for the Galaxy

The Galaxy Watch 9 has moved to the forefront of our minds ever since an apparent firmware leak was reported. In late March, the software for the upcoming watch supposedly appeared on a U.S. test server. Usually, this occurs after a significant portion of the work has been completed for the device (like its entire build). Earlier rumors suggest the watch could feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon Wear Elite for performance and efficiency increases.

While we are curious if Samsung has worked in any battery capacity upgrades, there's a chance it could stick to the same 435mAh cell. Efficiency and better battery life are two aspects we'd like to see Samsung improve on the Watch Ultra 2, as well. Workout tracking was another issue that the original Watch Ultra struggled with, which we'd like to see rectified on the second go-around.

It's also worth mentioning the major overhaul Samsung has planned for its Health app. The company listed a series of features that users will find, which we can expect on its next Galaxy Watches.

What you need to know

• Early rumors claim that Samsung's next wearable software, One UI 9 Watch (Wear OS 7), could get its first beta "soon."
• This software, aside from major Galaxy AI updates, could bring "smarter" health insights and reports.
• One UI 9 Watch is expected to feature Wear OS 7 as its backbone, which Google showcased in detail during I/O 2026.

While Samsung's reportedly busy toiling away at its next major Android OS for phones, rumors suggest it's also focusing on its watches.

Late into the evening, SamMobile spotted a rumor on X suggesting Samsung is already working on One UI 9 Watch. Rumors from tipster Tony Tech claim that "Samsung is preparing the first beta of One UI Watch 9.0." Health metrics are supposedly getting a glow-up in this new software. There was little to discuss; however, the tipster claims these metrics could receive "optimizations" for the BioActive Sensor, the same one in the Galaxy Watch 8.

What's more, joining these optimized metrics would be even larger and widespread Galaxy AI integration for Galaxy Watches. Aside from "more advanced AI capabilities," the tipster claims Samsung is developing "health reports and smarter insights." It seems that the company is looking to make the health data it records throughout the day matter.

The X post positions this development as one that could give users meaningful health assistance and information, rather than simply showing numbers. We've seen this approach taken by others before (think Fitbit and its health coach). Aside from the rumor, there's no suspected date for when Samsung's watches could get in on their respective Wear OS 7 (Android 17) beta.

Wear OS 7 inbound

If we look at Samsung's recent history, perhaps expecting a One UI 9 Watch beta isn't so strange. Rumors about its OS 8.0 Watch beta started around May last year; however, it seems we're a little later in the year this time. Those reports held a little more insight, suggesting Gemini actions, a Now Bar, and more—most of which we've received and have on our Galaxy Watch 8, alongside others. Samsung quickly rolled the new software out, then turned its attention to 2024's Galaxy Watch Ultra.

One UI 9 Watch is expected to feature Google's Wear OS 7 software. The company showcased much of what's involved with this new OS during I/O 2026. Google has been working on Live Updates for deliveries, sports scores, and rides. Thanks to Gemini Intelligence, users with Wear OS 7 can automate tasks from their wrist. Subtle optimizations are eager to extend the battery life of watches, while Google has also developed a more unified workout tracking system.

Android Central's Take

It's early days, so there's not much to unravel. What's probably the most interesting is what's been rumored for Samsung's health insights. If we're on the verge of getting more actionable intel about our health data, that sounds good. Fitbit's been moving down that road (now the Google Health app). If I'm not mistaken, Oura's also been stepping up its health data, but that's always been quite sharp.

Memorial Day smartwatch deals are already here, days ahead of the official holiday. For example, Best Buy's Memorial Day sale has launched a $50 discount on the 40mm version of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7.

To be sure, the Watch 7 was launched in 2024 and doesn't quite bear as many features as the newer Watch 8, though it also doesn't lag far behind. It sports a powerful enough processor for quick, responsive use, along with a new and improved heart rate sensor, double pinch gesture, energy score, and more. It's also a great pick for anyone who likes a minimal, modern overall design, and the onboard Wear OS platform is nothing short of a pleasure to use.

Beyond that, it also comes with a wide range of AI features, health metrics, and gestures that users like, while also being generally comfortable to wear for all-day use and exercise.

This isn't the lowest price we've seen on this watch, but if you're in the market now and don't want to wait for the next sale, it's not a bad price to pick this watch up at.

✅Recommended if: you're looking for medium-sized smartwatch that's both comfortable and highly capable of accurate health and GPS tracking, onboard storage, fitness programs, and more; you have a Galaxy phone or other Samsung devices and you want a watch that'll make it easy to maximize compatibility.

❌Skip this deal if: you'd prefer to go with the newer-generation Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and you don't feel the need to wait for a discount; you want a more traditional watch design than the sporty look of most of the Galaxy lineup, and you'd rather consider going with a Galaxy Watch Classic model; you prefer an extremely thin "fitness band" style watch than a full-sized smartwatch.

The Watch 8 may be the best Android smartwatch out there, but the Watch 7 is admittedly pretty similar to the newer-gen model in most regards. It comes with a super-accurate dual-band GPS, a wide range of health and fitness programs, heart rate and sleep monitoring, and a bright, 1.3-inch Super AMOLED display.

At 20% off, it's honestly not a bad pick for anyone willing to go with a last-gen option.

Among the compelling options from Samsung, Google, and OnePlus, I went with the Galaxy Watch 8 as my Wear OS smartwatch of choice. The price was a big reason, since the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 starts at $350, and discounts and trade-ins further lower the cost. Another factor was the watch's design, which is much thinner and lower-profile than a Pixel Watch or OnePlus Watch. More than anything else, the Samsung Health suite won me over.

There are a handful of Samsung Health features that genuinely provide insight into your fitness and long-term health using the Galaxy Watch 8's sensors. I can glance at my watch a few times daily and get instant snapshots of how I'm feeling using underlying sensor data. You can too, using these five Galaxy Watch 8 features. They're also available on the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic and the Galaxy Watch Ultra.

Energy score

The best part of using the Galaxy Watch 8 regularly is getting an Energy score each day. It measures your readiness for the day ahead using the activity and sleep data from the day and night prior. It requires using the Samsung Health app with a Samsung account, but other than that, Energy scores are calculated automatically with no manual setup required. Samsung uses the following metrics to come up with your score, out of 100 possible points:

• Sleep time average
• Sleep time consistency
• Sleep regularity
• Sleep timing
• Previous day activity
• Activity consistency
• Sleeping heart rate
• Sleeping heart rate variability

As you can see, sleep is an important part of your Energy score. If you don't get good sleep, your score will be lower, and a midday nap may or may not help. That's because Samsung accounts for the time of day of your nap, knowing that later naps disrupt your circadian rhythm and reduce energy. There are four Energy score tiers: Excellent (85-100), Good (75-84), Fair (60-74), Needs attention (0-59).

So, to get the most insight from the Energy score on your Galaxy Watch 8, be sure to wear it during sleep and throughout daily activities. Then, check into the Samsung Health app on your phone or the smartwatch tile to see your daily score.

Sleep score

Since the Energy score takes so much of your sleep data into account, you might be wondering what the Sleep score does differently. Similar to the Energy score, the Sleep score is calculated automatically when your Galaxy Watch 8 is worn to bed. It also uses the same scale, but factors in different metrics to calculate it. Sleep score measures your actual sleep time, deep sleep, REM sleep, restfulness, and sleep latency to calculate the final score.

Samsung also compares your nightly Sleep score to the average scores for your age group. For example, one night I scored a 92, which was in the top 2% of my age group. The company adds that getting a sleep score of 85 or higher equals a healthy night's sleep. You can also view your blood oxygen levels, sleep stages, snoring, skin temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate data in the Samsung Health app.

I never felt like my Apple Watch offered enough detailed sleep data to justify wearing it to bed, and my Garmin is too bulky to wear the entire night. Samsung offers the perfect mix with a data-rich Sleep score experience and slim Galaxy Watch 8 hardware.

Gemini

Gemini is a worthy replacement for Google Assistant on your wrist, enabling quicker actions and time-saving automations. I use it on my Galaxy Watch 8 to set a handful of nightly alarms with a single command, avoiding the hassle of having to configure alarms on the small screen. You can also use it to get directions, start workouts, or suggest music. It'll even read out your live health and fitness stats during a workout for a hands-free experience.

To use it, all you need to do is hold down the side button or say "Hey Gemini." You can also enable Raise to Talk under Settings > Gestures > Raise To Talk to activate Gemini by lifting the Galaxy Watch 8 up to your mouth.

Running coach

Samsung's Running coach feature might not be replacing personal trainers anytime soon, but it's a cool Galaxy Watch 8 tool for beginners. The feature works by having the wearer complete a 12-minute lactate threshold test, which tells Samsung Health a lot about the wearer's running capabilities. Then, it'll build a training plan to help you reach your goals. Complete a "level test" for each numbered level, and you'll advance to the next one.

To try it for yourself, open the Samsung Health app on your watch and tap Exercise. Then, find Running coach in the list and tap it. You'll now complete the aforementioned running test by following the on-screen prompts. After finishing the test, your watch will come up with a personalized training plan based on your needs.

Vascular load

A lot of Samsung's best health features work in the background, and the same is true of Vascular load. It tries to track your cardiovascular wellness to prevent a picture of your overall health. To see it, swipe left to view the Tiles screen, and tap Add tiles. Find the Vitals tab, and select Vascular load. Next, press Show on phone.

From there, you'll be able to start tracking your Vascular load after establishing a baseline by wearing your watch to bed for three nights.

Software is only part of the story, and the Galaxy Watch 8's thin profile seals the deal. It's only 8.6mm thick (excluding the protruding sensors), and that means it'll be comfortable enough to wear during tough workouts and nightly sleep. The more you wear a smartwatch, the better the data it provides. That's why the Galaxy Watch 8's design deserves credit for how useful these five fitness and health features are.

What you need to know

• Samsung announced that through its collaboration with Chung-Ang University Gwangmyeong Hospital in Korea its Galaxy Watch 6 has displayed the ability to "predict" fainting spells.
• The company says that the Galaxy Watch 6 with a PPG sensor can detect faints roughly five minutes in advance with 84.6% accuracy.
• Samsung adds that it plans to further advance the level of preventative care features on its wearables in the future.

Samsung announces that its Galaxy Watch has achieved a major milestone in its efforts in "preventative" health features.

Today (May 7), Samsung revealed in a press release that through its collaboration with Chung-Ang University Gwangmyeong Hospital in Korea, its Galaxy Watch has shown the ability to "predict" fainting spells. The achievement was made with a Galaxy Watch 6 during a VVS (vasovagal syncope) test. Samsung says that in working with the hospital, it equipped a Galaxy Watch 6 with a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor.

The purpose was to capture the user's heart rate variability to then run it through an AI algorithm. Samsung reports that this method identified that the user was going to faint "up to five minutes in advance." While not 100% accurate, the post says the watch could do so with 84.6% accuracy, but with a clinical sensitivity of 90%.

The hospital's Professor Junhwan Cho of the Department of Cardiology was involved in this collaboration, stating, "Up to 40% of people experience vasovagal syncope over their lifetime, with one-third experiencing recurrent episodes." Both sides realize that fainting isn't necessarily life-threatening. However, it's the result—the fall—that could pose a severe risk of injury for the person.

Samsung says that achieving this level of prediction is "crucial" for its preventative feature outlook in wearable health. Speaking of, there are plans for Samsung to expand the health monitoring capabilities of its wearable devices, such as the Galaxy Watch. There are hurdles Samsung would have to clear, but we could see a future where Fainting Prediction is the Galaxy Watch's newest feature.

Take care of yourself

Preventative Care was a highlight among many for the Galaxy Watch 8. When discussed, the feature primarily focused on the user's heart health, thanks to its sensors. Samsung announced that the Watch 8 could detect "premature heartbeats" using Ectopic Beat Detection. The goal here is to help users avoid or detect signs of arrhythmia. Vascular Load is another Preventative Care feature, capable of detecting the level of stress on one's heart.

If high, users would be informed to make important lifestyle changes, such as getting more sleep, managing their stress, or changing their diet. Most recently, Samsung finally rolled out its long-awaited Blood Pressure monitoring on devices ranging from the Galaxy Watch 4 to the Watch 8.

Many of the best smartwatch deals come and go on a regular basis, and this next Amazon discount is no exception. Currently, Amazon is offering 31% off the price of the white Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, which is a particularly good pick for anyone who prefers a less-sporty, more-traditional smartwatch design.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is normally priced at well over $500, so the $377 price tag makes it look pretty appealing. While it fittingly features a more classic look, it also still includes fan favorite features such as Samsung's Health Perks, a rotating bezel, a bright screen, and a user-friendly interface with One UI 8 Watch.

Buyers also like its sleep tracking and overall fit when worn to bed, as well as its battery life, and the always-on display mode with the "Hey Google" wake word. It also comes with dual-band GPS tracking, a wide range of health sensors, and several health and fitness modes. Throw in multi-tasking capabilities and 64GB of storage, and you've got a smartwatch that truly makes the somewhat high price tag make some sense.

This particular deal is only available for the Watch 8 Classic's white color in the 46mm configuration, though Amazon is also offering some smaller discounts on the black option and other sizes.

✅Recommended if: you prefer a smartwatch that looks more like a regular watch than many of today's more modern-looking watch designs; you like Samsung's lineup of smartwatches but you'd like to spend under $400 if you can.

❌Skip this deal if: you prefer a smaller watch than the 46mm configuration, but you don't want to sacrifice on savings; you prefer a smartwatch with a larger screen for better overall functionality, and you don't mind compromising a little bit on comfort.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic joins many of our other favorite smartwatches today. In particular, we think it's the best classic design for a smartwatch, but that doesn't mean it's a trade off for functionality or features.

From its accurate GPS tracking and range of health and workout modes to its battery life and 3,000-nit brightness, it's a good watch that normally comes at a pretty high price.

In our tests of the watch, we found that, even when heavily using the AOD, the "Hey Google" wake word, and other battery-intensive features, the Watch 8 Classic still yielded a 25-hour battery life pace. All in all, it's not a bad pick, especially if you can score it at a discounted price like this.

What you need to know

• Galaxy Watch owners across a few generations claim their device's battery is draining rapidly after March's update.
• The culprit appears to be Google's Play Services, as screenshots show it consuming large portions of user's batteries.
• The Galaxy Watch 7 experienced a severe battery drain issue in the past, which required Samsung to roll out a patch.

Galaxy Watch users started reporting a strange issue plaguing the device's battery life, and the cause might surprise you.

Users on the Galaxy Watch subreddit voiced issues following the March security update for Samsung's wearables (via Android Authority). The original report, which didn't state the affected model, claims their device's battery has become "significantly worse than before." The user provided a screenshot, putting the culprit (Google's Play Services) on blast. After questioning why Play Services is taking so much battery, others chimed in reporting similar occurrences.

One user's report from a Galaxy Watch 6 Classic standpoint says Play Services has eaten 89% of their battery. Their post says that they've purchased the model "a few weeks ago, and this is the state it is in now." Another user with a Watch 6 Classic says they've encountered this problem, but only after connecting to a non-Samsung phone. More importantly, the issue does not occur while they're sleeping with the watch in DND.

Not everyone is having this battery drain problem. Some users with a Watch 6 Classic say they've encountered no issues, while others with a Watch 7, 8 Classic, and, strangely, a Galaxy S25 Ultra say otherwise. The running suggestion is for users to restart their watch if they're experiencing this battery drain issue. Users say doing so seemingly gets Play Services back to normal, though it might return. However, the alternative is to wait for Samsung to patch this; however, there's no telling when that could be.

The battery has been through it

The Galaxy Watch 7 struggled with a brain issue during its debut year that users in South Korea were quick to report. After running through its setup, users said the Watch 7 ran through its battery at roughly 10% per hour. This is quite heavy, especially if you're not doing much with it, like enabling its AOD. Others said that after fully charging it before bed, they'd wake up to a watch with 30% to 40% remaining.

These issues quickly spread overseas, and folks on Reddit said they were left with 8% of their battery left after minimal use. Samsuing was able to resolve those issues with a patch, but it took a little while before it was rolled out.

Android Central's Take

There's probably nothing more annoying than having to toss your device on the charger multiple times a day. That gets even worse when you know you're not doing much on it. Then the question becomes, "where's all my battery going?" In this case, people have found the issue, though I'm not experiencing any issues with my Galaxy S25 Ultra. I did spot one user saying they've had this issue on their Watch 6 Classis since December, and none of Samsung's fixes have offered aid.

What you need to know

• Blood Pressure monitoring is finally rolling out on Galaxy Watches ranging from the Watch 4 to the Watch 8 series.
• Users can monitor for sudden, potentially dangerous changes in their blood pressure; however, an upper arm cuff will be required to calibrate your Galaxy Watch every 28 days.
• Samsung says this feature is rolling out for U.S. users today (Mar 31) in a phased rollout, meaning everyone won't see it at the same time.

Your blood pressure is incredibly important to your heart health, and now Samsung's Galaxy Watches can help you keep an eye on it.

This has been expected for a long time. Samsung announced this morning (Mar 31) that it's rolling out Blood Pressure monitoring for U.S. users on "select" Galaxy Watches. Samsung has highlighted its Galaxy Watch 8 and Watch 8 Classic as devices with "advanced sensor technology and AI-powered experiences." Its fine print adds that this feature is rolling out on watches ranging from the Galaxy Watch 4 to the latest 2025 models, covering more users. The post states the Blood Pressure monitoring feature "calibrates blood values and blood pressure changes" to estimate your number.

However, Samsung informs consumers that they will need an upper arm cuff (sold separately) to calibrate their Galaxy Watch "every 28 days."

The company says Blood Pressure monitoring aims to give users information to better decide what might be best for their lifestyle. While this isn't intended as a true diagnosis of high blood pressure, users might feel inclined to bring up their latest readings with their doctor. As expected, your blood pressure data will be stored in the Samsung Health app. After a reading is taken, users can "review" their data and see what it might mean, similar to the blurb you'll get after an ECG.

Samsung's Blood Pressure monitoring is rolling out today on the Galaxy Watch 4 up to the Galaxy Watch 8. Users shouldn't expect it all at once, as the post says it'll be a "phased rollout" beginning March 31. It seems that the Watch 8 series might get it first, but still keep your eyes peeled for an update, regardless of model.

Let's take it seriously

Blood Pressure monitoring isn't anything new to South Korean users, and it's not really new for U.S. folks either. The latter just never got it. We can go all the way back to 2020, when Samsung rolled this out for the Galaxy Watch Active (remember that?). The press release revealed this health-forward feature for South Korea, and at the time, there was nothing on a global release. We can then jump to 2023 when another feature, sleep apnea, was announced—for South Korea, too.

Sleep apnea and irregular heart rhythm tracking have since arrived on Galaxy Watches in the U.S. What's been holding things up has been FDA approval. Samsung could cross the other two features off, and now it can do the same for its blood pressure monitoring.

Android Central's Take

Blood Pressure monitoring has been such a long-awaited feature, for myself included. It's a handy feature that required (I suppose) rigorous understanding by the FDA. None of these features on a smart watch or a tracker are meant to be treated as a true diagnosis. You need your doctor for that. But, at the very least, they offer a nice nudge about what's going on with you—good or bad. It's good to at least see what's happening. And, if I need to take action, let me do so with some knowledge in my back pocket.

What you need to know

• Firmware for the Galaxy Watch 9 (model SM-L345U) appeared on a U.S. test server, signaling that core work is finished.
• The Snapdragon Wear Elite (3nm) chipset could boost performance and battery efficiency for Samsung's upcoming wearable.
• The 44mm model is expected to keep a 435mAh battery, although any gains will depend on the new chip.

Samsung’s next smartwatch is already knocking on the door. Firmware for the Galaxy Watch 9 has appeared, indicating that development is complete and testing has begun.

A device with the model number SM-L345U has appeared on a U.S. test server, as spotted by Mohammed Khatri, and if you’ve been following the leak cycle, you've probably heard that’s the internal ID for the Galaxy Watch 9 (via SamMobile).

In mobile tech, when firmware appears on a public test server, it’s a clear sign that core development is done. Now, Samsung’s engineers are probably focused on fine-tuning the software so it works smoothly when the watch launches this summer.

The Galaxy Watch 8 stood out for its improved shape and better sensor contact, but the Watch 9 is rumored to be even more powerful. Reports suggest it will use the new Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset, which Qualcomm recently hinted would be in the next Galaxy wearables.

Same battery, better efficiency

Efficiency is a main focus this time. The watch will likely come in the usual 40mm and 44mm sizes, and leaks show the 44mm version will have a 435mAh battery. While that’s the same as the Watch 8, the new 3nm Elite chipset could help the battery last longer.

Don’t expect a major change in appearance, though. After last year’s redesign, Samsung is probably focusing on internal upgrades and AI-powered fitness coaching this year.

Samsung released the Watch 8 with its latest foldables last July, so it’s likely the Watch 9 will launch the same way. A formal reveal is expected at a Galaxy Unpacked event in July 2026.

Android Central's Take

Samsung may want to call this a Garmin-beater, but it’s hard to see what really sets it apart. The Snapdragon Wear Elite chip looks good on paper, and finishing development early is nice for the engineers, but what does it mean for users? The battery is still 435mAh, so we’re likely to face the same low battery worries after a GPS-heavy workout.

It seems like Samsung is just refining the same product. For people tired of charging their watch every day, another small update in a familiar shape isn’t a big change. It’s just a pricier way to count steps while we wait for a watch that can last through a long weekend.

The Big Spring Sale is in full swing, and if you were hoping to take advantage of one of Amazon's many smartwatch deals, there's one discount that deserves some extra attention. 

The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, a versatile wearable with a rotating bezel and loads of Samsung smarts, just scored a rare 26% discount as part of the sale, knocking the price down to $369.99. That's only $20 more than the base model Galaxy Watch 8!

• See the full list of deals during Amazon's Big Spring Sale

One of our favorite Android smartwatches scores a rare discount during the Big Spring Sale

✅Recommended if: you want a stylish, timeless-looking smartwatch that doesn't skimp on premium specs or performance; you miss the tactile experience of using a rotating bezel.

❌Skip this deal if: you want a watch with a more sleek, futuristic look; you just need a simple fitness tracker without all of the bells and whistles of a Samsung watch. 

The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic boasts a spacious 1.34-inch AMOLED display with 3,000 nits of brightness, Wear OS 6 with a ton of handy One UI 8 features, and a snappy Exynos processor straight out of the box. The rotating bezel on the watch has also received glowing reviews from users, and the 32GB of onboard storage is a boon for music and podcast lovers. You also get a ton of useful health and fitness tracking tools, such as Antioxidant Index, Bedtime Guidance, and Vascular Load, in addition to expected metrics like HRV and SpO2. 

Indeed, despite a few quirks with its GPS accuracy and step counter, there are very few drawbacks with the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic. The only real problem with the wearable is the stiff competition. There are plenty of Android watches in this price range that perform just as well (or better) than the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic by certain metrics.

If all you care about is battery life, for example, the OnePlus Watch 3 might be a better (and more affordable) option. If you're already immersed in the Pixel ecosystem, the Google Pixel Watch 4 might deliver a more seamlessly-integrated experience with your other devices.

Needless to say, you have some factors to consider, but if you like the look of the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic and you've been waiting for the right time to grab the stylish watch, now's your chance.

It's not hard to find smartwatch deals, but if you prefer a more traditional-looking watch, then your options may be a little more limited. Fortunately for those who do, Amazon has just slashed 26% off the price of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, which is one of our favorite smartwatches on the market.

First and foremost, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic features a more timeless design than the majority of today's smartwatches, which typically boast something a little more modern that may not feel as appropriate in a formal environment. Despite this, it still boasts many of the features included in other models, from a wide range of health tracking, exercise coaching, and dual-band GPS features, as well as a battery life that can last up to 30 hours per charge.

• See our guide to the best Samsung Galaxy deals of the month

✅Recommended if: you want a powerful smartwatch with a wide range of health tracking and exercise features, but you prefer one with a more classic design than most smartwatches on the market today; you're looking for a smartwatch that has fitness and health features, dual-frequency GPS, and a decent battery life; you like having a watch with a bright display that can still be seen even in outdoor settings.

❌Skip this deal if: you prefer a larger smartwatch with a more functional screen; you want an even cheaper smartwatch and you don't need all the bells and whistles of something so integrated across Android platforms; you plan to use your smartwatch for running, and you'd prefer a watch with a better set of running features than this one can offer.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is one of the best Android smartwatches on the market, and this deal is for the largest size, the 46mm, which includes a 1.34-inch AMOLED display boasting 3,000 nits of brightness. It also has a nice rotating bezel, as well as easy access to features such as sleep coaching, energy scores, a personal AI assistant, and more.

One downside of this watch is that the Running Coach feature is a little underwhelming compared to what some other watches offer. However, if you aren't too picky or that isn't otherwise a deal-breaker for you, this might be a good time to pick this model up.

What you need to know

• temp

Samsung is reportedly getting its app in order for its grand One UI 8.5 reveal, and its latest efforts are showing up for wearables.

A report from SamMobile states that Samsung is starting to roll out an update for the Galaxy Wearable app that will excite users in two ways. The company's short changelog mentions that this update brings its One UI 8.5 user interface improvements. More importantly, the patch notes state that Samsung is also adding support for the Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro.

There's been speculation that these new buds will be announced during Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked next week, and this furthers those suspicions.

Samsung continues, delivering a brutal reckoning to users with older Galaxy devices: the Galaxy Fit and Galaxy Fit e will no longer be supported in this update. It looks like users in other regions, such as the U.S., will have to wait a little longer before this update hits their Galaxy devices. SamMobile states that this patch was highlighted on the South Korean Samsung Community forums, from a user with a Galaxy S23 Ultra.

Getting things ready

Samsung's mention of support for the Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro is the biggest aspect of this report. We've been wrapped in rumors about these buds more and more over the past few months, and the latest was all about their (alleged) design. The Buds 4 and 4 Pro are seemingly in for a redesign that removes that pointed, triangular stem design from the 3 Pro. The 4 Pro's stem is rounded, which sort of matches with its even rounder/softer corners for the Galaxy S26 series.

The Buds 4 are rumored to keep the silicone eartip away, so we'll have to see how users feel about that moving forward.

Samsung confirmed that its Galaxy Unpacked event for the next wave is set for February 25, 2026 at 1 pm ET/10 am PT in San Francisco, California. More than that, the company's reserve program for the Galaxy S26 series is underway, and Android Central's Patrick Farmer already secured himself at least $900 off the next big flagship.

Android Central's Take

This is all excitement by this point, you know? Samsung's continuing to push ahead with its software, which is expected to fuel its next big products early in 2026. All that I'm looking forward to know, for this particular rumor, is what the Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro deliver sound-wise. The recent series, especially the 3 Pro, boast incredible sound that's deep and detailed. Hopefully, Samsung can keep that up with its next series or even bump up the bass.

A few years ago, I bought a Galaxy Watch 5 and got it essentially for free from T-Mobile, with the kicker being that I had to get it on a two-year contract. That means I was stuck with an LTE-enabled smartwatch, solely because I didn't wanna lay down $279 on the spot for a Bluetooth/Wi-Fi model. Now, however many years later it's been since then, and with the contract up, I have finally canceled that line, essentially reverting my smartwatch to a Bluetooth/Wi-Fi model.

It's only been a few days since I made the change, but it doesn't feel any different, except that now, I'm saving money while still being able to take advantage of most of my smartwatch's features. Frankly, it made me realize that I don't need a smartwatch with data, and I feel like most people probably don't, either.

T-Mobile tried and failed to get me to keep the line

When I called to cancel the line, the T-Mobile representative understandably tried her darndest to convince me to keep it. She told me that I would use my watch without needing my smartphone nearby, still able to make calls and texts, stream music while on a run, or navigate with Google Maps.

That sounds all good and dandy, but the thing is, I always have my phone with me. So pretty much all of these features are still usable without LTE, making it a non-issue. I can make calls or send texts from the watch, play offline music I've already downloaded from YouTube Music and Spotify (or transferred from my phone), and even use offline maps in Google Maps, if, for some reason, I don't have my phone. And I only need to do these things on my watch if I don't wanna pull my phone out of my pocket, which is where it almost always is.

Granted, I did actually try to take advantage of the LTE connectivity when I first got the Galaxy Watch, going on runs in my neighborhood while leaving my phone at home. But, to be honest, I hate running outside, and I still felt uncomfortable not having my phone with me for even 30 minutes (which probably says a lot about me). And to be honest, going on runs without my phone was really the only use case I've been able to come up with for keeping the smartwatch data line.

I also mostly use my smartwatches to track my workouts. In addition to the Pixel Watch 3 LTE, I also use Garmin watches like the Venu 4, which don't come with LTE connectivity and are more than sufficient to do what I need them to.

I told the T-Mobile representative as much, and she still tried to convince me to keep the line, but ultimately, I could not think of a single reason to keep spending money on it.

LTE has its uses on a smartwatches, if you're willing to pay for it

I'm not saying LTE on a smartwatch isn't useful; I'm just saying it's not useful enough for what I need it for. For example, the Pixel Watch 4 has satellite SOS, which is only available on the LTE model. This lets you send emergency messages when you're in an area where you don't have access to a mobile network.

Emergency satellite messaging may be available on Pixel phones, but it's not ubiquitous across Android phones or even carriers. This would make an LTE Pixel Watch a potentially lifesaving device if you find yourself in a sticky spot.

However, a smartwatch line on major U.S. carriers usually costs around $10 a month, meaning I was paying around $120 a year for multiple years for a feature that I don't use. It's not as much as a typical smartphone line, which makes the cost manageable for many people, but I just can't justify the price anymore.

Even so, my Pixel Watch 3 works just as well as it did before I removed the LTE connection, and I don't miss it at all.

That said, not everyone feels the same way. Do you find LTE on a smartwatch useful, or do you prefer to just use Bluetooth/Wi-Fi? Let us know in the comments below!

What you need to know

• Rumors claim that Samsung has started filing the necessary paperwork for new devices in 2026, which includes a Galaxy Watch Ultra 2.
• A GSMA IMEI database reportedly showcased the existence of the device, which lines up with previously rumors, alongside new tablets and the Galaxy Watch 9.
• Older rumors claim that Samsung may have taken a year off from the Galaxy Watch Ultra to work on more significant upgrades for it in 2026.

There are watchful eyes all over Samsung right now, as new rumors claim to have spotted a few devices it has planned.

Earlier today (Feb 2), a post by SmartPrix alleged that Samsung has started the necessary paperwork for several devices planned for launch throughout 2026. The publication claims that it has spotted listings (model numbers, too) for devices through the GSMA IMEI database. These listings allege that Samsung's successor to its Watch Ultra might finally arrive this year.

A listing states that a device marked as SM-L716U is the "Galaxy Watch Ultra 2." Typically, these listings are indicative of an "upcoming" launch, sometime in the near future. Unfortunately, these listings are also void of the exciting bits: specifications, features, and the like. The only good thing here is that consumers not-so-patiently waiting for the Watch Ultra 2 may have some hope.

The publication's discoveries go on to mention the next generation of Galaxy Watch, which would be its 9 series. The only model cited in this report was the Galaxy Watch 9, so we'll likely have to keep our eyes open for any such "9 Classic," if there is to be one. Additionally, the company's next tablets were spotted—and, yes, the lineup appears to be changing.

The report claims that Samsung has filed listings for a Galaxy Tab 12 Plus and a 12 Ultra, no base model.

Let's see where we're going

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra consumers were in for a rugged treat with the device when it launched. While it excited those who purchased it, tech-lovers are always looking for "what's next," and that was rumored to happen in 2025. Those rumors said the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 could debut alongside Samsung's foldables, but that didn't happen. Instead, consumers were left wondering what happened, which was touched on in a following report late last year.

This listing essentially doubles down on those rumors that said the Watch Ultra 2 might be headed for a summer 2026 debut with the Galaxy Watch 9 in tow. It seems as if Samsung is looking for a more substantial upgrade for its rugged model this year, rather than a small hop in 2025.

As far as the tablets go, Samsung dropped its Plus model from the Tab S11 series for a base and Ultra device. Samsung is clearly trying to experiment with what works best.

Android Central's Take

It's funny because, instead of getting a successor last year, we all got a re-release of the Galaxy Watch Ultra. It wasn't exactly a clone, as Samsung did drop in some new goodies, but it wasn't a "2." That was probably for the best. Seeing as the Galaxy Watch Ultra is the largest display choice, as well as a larger battery. It can do a little more and help those who love getting outdoors climbing, hiking, and more. I don't so much vibe with the thicker, rugged look, as the Watch 8's simplified, clean look strikes me better. However, we still have yet to see just what features and upgrades have warranted Samsung's year off.

What you need to know

• Samsung has taken its wearables beyond the wrist by featuring the Galaxy Watch Ultra and S25 Ultra in iFIT's "Trainer Games" on Prime Video.
• Athletes in the show use standard retail units of the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy S25 Ultra to manage pacing and recovery under competitive pressure.
• Paired with Samsung Health, the Galaxy Watch Ultra works like a digital coach, offering heart rate tracking, recovery data, running plans, sleep guidance, and an antioxidant index.

Samsung isn’t stopping at putting a health tracker on your wrist. Now, it wants you to see how it works under pressure. The tech giant is doubling down on its partnership with fitness platform iFIT, moving past basic app integration to a full television showcase.

Through this partnership, the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy S25 Ultra are featured in iFIT’s new endurance competition series, Trainer Games, now available on Prime Video. Last November, Samsung teamed up with iFIT to offer Samsung Health users on-demand workouts led by professional trainers. Including its devices in a competitive TV show is the next step in that collaboration.

Real-world stress testing

In Trainer Games, participants face challenges that test their pacing, recovery, and durability. The twist is that they use the same retail products available to customers, specifically the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy S25 Ultra, to track their performance.

Pairing a high-end wearable like the Galaxy Watch Ultra with the Samsung Health app offers more than just step counting. The system works as a digital coach. Viewers following the athletes on screen can access heart rate monitoring, detailed workout and recovery tracking, a running coach, an antioxidant index to measure intake, and bedtime guidance for better sleep.

The goal is to show that its Ultra branding means more than just marketing, and featuring the devices in an endurance-focused show might give Samsung a chance to prove they are tough enough for professionals and still easy for casual users.

Android Central's Take

I’ve watched many celebrity endorsements, but I prefer this stress-test style of marketing. Watching athletes use the Galaxy Watch Ultra in a tough setting like Trainer Games feels more genuine than a polished commercial. If you’ve been on the fence about whether the Ultra premium is worth it, seeing it survive these challenges might be the nudge you need. And I'm personally curious to see how that Antioxidant Index performs in a real-world training regimen.

What you need to know

• Samsung Galaxy Watch users have continued to report problems with their device's DND (do not disturb) activation.
• Users state that, upon activating from their watch, DND activates, but quickly deactivates seconds later.
• Samsung has addressed this, stating that a fix is incoming; however, users can still turn on DND on their connected phone and it will work as intended.

Samsung Galaxy Watch users across several generations are reporting an issue with the device's DND, as there are inconsistencies with its expected outcome.

These reports were spotted by SammyGuru, as a huge thread on the Samsung Community forums went back and forth over the subject. The thread originally started as a report about the Galaxy Watch 6 and 7 receiving the One UI 8 Watch update and having their DND activation broken. The user's report is clear: "I just recently updated my watch 6 classic with the new update... I'm noticing that when I turn on my do-not-disturb icon on my watch, it stays on for 5 seconds, then turns back off."

The publication spotted a report from a user who stated they noticed this issue surfaced after updating to One UI 8 on their Galaxy phone.

They stated that activating DND on their watch no longer works as intended, as it will turn on for a moment before deactivating. This same user attempted to troubleshoot the problem by clearing their cache on their watch and phone, but to no avail. These problems have been ongoing since (roughly) December, and a Samsung moderator finally stepped in to deliver some news.

The moderator's post highlights that this issue has been discovered for the Galaxy Watch 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8. While these watches are unable to activate DND as intended, the moderator states users can activate it on their phone, which will produce it appropriately on their connected watch. Alternatively, you can try "activating (turning on) Do Not Disturb mode in the watch's settings."

These are band-aid fixes for right now. The moderator confirmed that Samsung is working on a proper patch to solve this issue for the affected models moving forward. If you're experiencing issues, you'll have to bear with them (or try these solutions) for a little longer.

Another issue early this year

The Galaxy Watch 8 was wrapped in another wave of reports earlier this month, but so was Google's Pixel Watch. Wear OS 6 reportedly contains a bug that causes third-party watch faces to freeze during transitions. What users began to experience was "ghosting," which comes about when the watch face and the AOD (always-on display_ overlap. Not only was the latest Watch 8 involved, but several past-gen models, too.

The included watch faces on your device (the ones the OEMs made) weren't affected in this issue. So, it was recommended that users avoid third-party faces until patches rolled in to address the problem.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) didn't have an especially tempting deal price over the holidays, with the Galaxy Watch 8 easily found for hundreds less. But its price has slowly zig-zagged down from $599 in November to $530 for Cyber Monday, and now $499 on Amazon ($150 off) for the new year, an all-time low.

I reviewed and appreciated the Galaxy Watch Ultra (2024) for its three-day battery life, rugged titanium design, and fast performance. The 2025 model is unchanged in performance and specs, except for its doubled storage space (64GB vs. 32GB). And while the base Galaxy Watch 8 is a better purchase for most people, only the Ultra lets you avoid daily charging.

Samsung is offering an "exclusive" Ultra (2025) price of $429 ($220 off) on its site, but its best deal prices don't always show up for everyone, so Amazon's $499 price is the best from mainstream retailers that we can guarantee is available. Otherwise, you can take a chance on a "Renewed" Galaxy Watch Ultra for only $249 (42% off).

✅Recommended if: You prefer the Watch Ultra's bulky titanium aesthetic to the Watch 8 Classic's steel rotating bezel and more "traditional" style, or to the Watch 8's lightweight squircle imitation. You prefer having battery leeway for intensive activities like streaming music over Wi-Fi or frequent dual-band GPS activities.

❌Skip this deal if: You're concerned about your smartwatch being too heavy; you're okay to wait until August for a fully new version; or you can accept daily charging for the Watch 8's much-lower price.

Currently, the Galaxy Watch 8 is $279 ($70 off) on Amazon, meaning you can save another $220 by choosing it over the Ultra (2025). You'd lose out on the third button, titanium frame, doubled storage, and extra capacity, but you can still get a 1.5-inch, 3,000-nit display and the same performance and four years of software support.

Another alternative is the OnePlus Watch 3, which beats the Galaxy Watch Ultra's battery life by several days, while offering similar premium perks like a large, bright display and titanium case — though you'll get fewer, slower updates and no LTE connectivity. At $298 ($51 off) on Amazon, it's much more affordable.

What you need to know

• Belkin's new wireless charging stand has a modular smartwatch charger tray that supports Apple, Google, and Samsung pucks.
• The modularity allows Galaxy Watch and Pixel Watch users to supply their own smartwatch chargers for extra versatility.
• The charger's primary charging pad supports Qi2.2 25W, and a secondary one powers your earbuds.

With the emergence of Qi2 magnetic charging support on phones like the Google Pixel 10 series, Android users are able to use premium wireless charging stands. Chargers that support Qi2 will work with magnetic phones including the Pixel 10 and wireless earbuds, and an even greater set of Android phones with a compatible case. Smartwatch charging, however, proved to be more elusive. Accessories offering 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 wireless charging often only supported the Apple Watch.

Belkin is trying to change that with the UltraCharge Modular Charging Dock, a Qi2 charging accessory announced this week at CES 2026. It will be available for a fairly-cheap $64.99 retail price, and has one neat feature: support for multiple smartwatch charging pucks. Typically, charging stands that require you to bring your own charging puck do so to cut costs, but that's only part of the story with this Belkin charger.

The modularity here allows Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy Watch, and Google Pixel Watch users to insert their charger into the UltraCharge Modular Charging Dock for peak versatility. It'll work with all Galaxy Watch and Apple Watch models. Only the first- and second-generation Pixel Watches are supported, but that's because Google switched to pin-based charging systems starting with the Pixel Watch 3.

The setup includes a pop-out tray for your smartwatch charging puck, complete with a variety of inserts and spacers to match your smartwatch brand and/or model. The cable is hidden, running through the stand's body into its base, where you'll find a USB-C input and output. The input is used to power the stand, and connects to the included 45W power adapter. The output, meanwhile, is for your smartwatch charger.

The smartwatch modularity is the selling point here, but the rest of the charger is impressive, too. The main charging pad supports Qi2.2 technology, meaning you'll get 25W charging speeds with supported devices. This magnetic charger is adjustable, helping you find the right viewing angle or fold it flat for travel and storage.

Underneath the phone charger is a smaller, fixed charging pad intended for use with wireless earbuds. So, you can use the UltraCharge Modular Charging Dock for a complete Samsung or Google mobile ecosystem, including a phone, earbuds, and smartwatch.

Belkin says it's expecting a launch this quarter for the UltraCharge Modular Charging Dock "in select markets," and it might just me the Wear OS charging solution you needed.

What you need to know

• A bug in Wear OS 6 is causing third-party watch faces to freeze mid-transition, creating a "ghosting" effect where the active face and Always-On Display overlap.
• Pixel Watch and Galaxy Watch users are both affected, including newer models like the Galaxy Watch 8 and Watch Ultra.
• The issue specifically targets downloaded third-party faces; stock faces pre-installed by Google and Samsung appear to be immune.

Wear OS 6 was supposed to be a quiet quality-of-life upgrade, such as a more polished always-on display experience. Instead, it’s kicked off an unexpected headache for Pixel Watch and Galaxy Watch owners who rely on third-party watch faces.

Users have taken to both Google and Samsung forums to report that Always-On Display (AOD) transitions are broken on Wear OS 6 for many third-party faces, as reported by PiunikaWeb. Under normal conditions, a Wear OS watch shifts between its full, interactive watch face and a simplified AOD version smoothly when your wrist drops. On Wear OS 6, however, something in that handoff has gone sideways.

Owners report seeing a "ghosting" effect in which the active watch face and the AOD version overlap. Instead of a smooth fade from bright to dim, you get a frozen, transparent mess of overlapping numbers and hands.

This isn’t limited to one brand. Reports are coming in from both Pixel Watch and Galaxy Watch owners, including those running the latest Pixel Watch models and Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 8 and Watch Ultra. That’s important because it suggests this is a Wear OS 6 platform-level problem.

The root of the problem appears to be a change in how Wear OS 6 handles AOD rendering for third-party watch faces. Google introduced new APIs meant to improve efficiency and consistency, but those changes seem to have broken compatibility with existing watch face frameworks.

Stock faces still work fine

The system gets stuck halfway, leaving a broken, half-finished screen. This bug mostly affects third-party watch faces. If you use the watch faces that came with your device, you probably have not seen this problem because those faces work differently.

Some users have temporarily fixed the issue by switching to an official Pixel or Samsung watch face, but that’s more of a workaround than a solution.

This is not the customization you expected, but it is better than looking at a messy screen every time you check your steps. Google and Samsung seem to be aware of the problem, but since it is a system issue, we have to wait for an update to fix it.

Until the update arrives, avoid third-party watch faces and watch for the next firmware update.

This fitness tech guide isn't for the natural athletes, responsible dieters, and 10,000-steps-a-day streakers who make good habits a lifestyle. It's for the exhausted parents, disordered eaters, and indoor types who want to get healthier but struggle with it.

I'm not a natural athlete. I was a chubby kid with asthma who got healthier with high school sports, then spent years slowly regressing despite trying to stay active. It's only in the last couple of years that I've shed a few dozen pounds and become as fast as I was a decade ago.

I fully credit this to two things: Following the advice of my fitness smartwatch and sticking religiously to my New Year's resolutions. I set achievable goals at the start of the year and make myself stick to them.

This Fitness 101 guide is designed to help my fellow strugglers who need to grit and claw their way to success. I've collected Starter Kits that'll help motivate you to hit your fitness goals, as well as our best fitness guides for the technology you can trust to be accurate (and affordable).

More personally, I've gathered some of my favorite testing articles from my weekly fitness column for hitting my goals, like when I walked 10,000 steps every day or stood up every hour.

By the time Quitter's Day arrives in mid-January, I think more people can stick to their New Year's fitness resolutions if they have the right tech, plan, and mindset. I hope this guide helps you with that!

- Michael Hicks, Senior Editor, Wearables

Your New Year's Resolution Starter Kit

Fitness tips and more from the AC staff

Picking the right tech to hit your fitness goals

Holiday smartwatch deals are here, and this next entry is a particularly good pick for the budget-conscious buyer. Amazon has launched a 48% off holiday deal for the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7, bringing the last-gen watch down to just $129 and marking its lowest price ever.

The Galaxy Watch 7 was our pick for last year's best Android smartwatch overall, and there's more than one reason why. The newer Watch 8 added a few improvements and upgrades, but the Watch 7 still holds up. It's especially competitive at this price point, being the lowest it's ever been and contrasting rivals with a lot of power and functionality.

This deal is for the 40mm version of the Watch 7, which includes a slightly smaller screen. For some, this is preferable to the 44mm for wearing while sleeping, and just being slightly less bulky overall. The discount is also only available for the Green configuration of the watch, though it typically also comes in Cream.

✅Recommended if: you're looking for a good deal on a Samsung smartwatch and you don't mind going last-gen; you want a smartwatch with a wide range of functionality, including an accurate HR sensor, ECG, AGE, and sleep monitoring; you like a watch with a bright AMOLED display that's user-friendly, quick, and fun to use.

❌Skip this deal if: you'd prefer to upgrade to the Watch 8 for the latest processing bump and features; you're looking for an even smaller watch, such as some of the ultra-thin Fitbit bands, or you like a more classic-looking smartwatch than one with a sporty design; you need something with several day battery life for outdoor backpacking trips and other longer-term needs.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 was easily the overall market leader in the smartwatch space last year, launching with improved battery life and marginally better processing speeds. The 40mm version of the watch has a 1.3-inch Super AMOLED display, as well as 32GB of storage, 2GB of RAM, and a 300mAh battery that's suitable for shorter outdoor excursions.

Samsung devices will enjoy seamless compatibility with texting and phone calls, easy access to text messages and phone calls, music streaming, and more. The watch also boasts between 30-50 hours of battery life per charge, depending on usage, which is enough for most casual users.

Other useful features include the Samsung Energy Score, handy workout modes and challenges, accurate heart rate tracking, and intuitive wellness tips based on insights from your health data.

Holiday shopping 2025 - quick links

• Best Buy: up to 50% off Chromebooks, Android phones, and more
• Amazon: major discounts on headphones, smart home tech
• Walmart: price drops on ASUS laptops, locked phones
• Samsung: new Galaxy XR headset, trade-in opportunities
• Verizon: free phones with new line, trade-in
• T-Mobile: free Galaxy phones, $300 back w/ 5G Home Internet
• Mint Mobile: 50% off Pixel 10, BOGO Unlimited plans
• AT&T: get a free Z Flip 7 with trade-in, new line

What you need to know

• One UI 8 Watch is finally rolling out in the U.S., reaching Galaxy Watch 6 and Watch 6 Classic owners after weeks of delays.
• The update brings a major visual and performance overhaul, with cleaner UI elements, smoother scrolling, and sharper animations powered by Wear OS 6.
• Navigation gets easier and faster thanks to vertically stacked tiles, simplified menus, and a persistent “Now bar” for quick access to active tasks.

Samsung is now releasing the long-awaited One UI 8 Watch update to Galaxy Watch 6 and Watch 6 Classic owners in the U.S. This rollout took longer than expected. For weeks, only users in Korea could try the Wear OS 6 update, while most people elsewhere waited.

9to5Google reports the update is now available to Galaxy Watch 6 users in the U.S., including those with T-Mobile and Verizon models.

The update changes how the watch looks and feels in daily use. One UI 8 Watch runs on top of Wear OS 6, and you can see the difference right away with a cleaner interface, smoother scrolling, and better animation transitions.

Tiles now stack vertically, making them easier to scroll through while you’re moving. Menus are simpler and more direct. The new bottom Now Bar stays visible, so you can quickly get back to ongoing tasks.

Gestures you’ll actually use

The update also improves how you use the watch with new gesture controls. Double-pinch gestures work much better now, so using the watch with one hand feels practical instead of frustrating.

For wellness, the update gives you more detailed sleep metrics and energy scores, using features from the latest Galaxy Ring technology.

Even though the Watch 6 is two years old, this update makes it feel like a newer device, which is exactly what long-term owners want from a major software refresh. It breathes new life into a wearable that was starting to feel a bit neglected next to the shiny new Galaxy Watch 8.

And while updates can be huge headaches on some wearables, installing this one is straightforward. Just open the Galaxy Wearable app, go to Watch settings, check for updates, and make sure you have Wi-Fi and enough battery.

What you need to know

• Samsung’s true rugged smartwatch upgrade won’t hit until 2026, as the rumored Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 skips a 2025 launch entirely.
• The device is internally referred to as the “Galaxy Watch 9 Ultra,” but is expected to ship as the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2.
• Samsung appears to be stretching out Ultra release cycles, mirroring Apple’s slower cadence for its high-end wearables.

If you’ve been holding your breath for a massive upgrade to Samsung’s rugged wearable lineup, you might want to exhale and maybe get comfortable. While the Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) landed recently with a storage bump to 64GB, it wasn’t exactly the generational leap many of us were craving. Still, if the latest rumors are true, a real successor is on the way — just not as soon as you might like.

Samsung is reportedly hard at work on a device internally dubbed the Galaxy Watch 9 Ultra. Don't let that clunky moniker throw you off, though. GalaxyClub suggests this will almost certainly hit shelves as the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2.

The twist? Rumor has it the new Ultra won’t be released until the summer of 2026, meaning there will be no major rugged update in 2025.

This timeline puts it on track to launch alongside the Galaxy Watch 9 series and the next generation of foldables, specifically the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Flip 8. It looks like Samsung is changing its approach, possibly releasing Ultra models less often, similar to how Apple handles its high-end wearables.

Expect a bigger leap

So why the wait? It seems Samsung decided to skip a big hardware update in 2025 to focus on a bigger upgrade for 2026. We might get a device that isn't just a spec bump but potentially a complete architectural refresh.

Right now, rumors suggest the new Ultra will be based a lot on the Galaxy Watch 9’s development, but there isn’t much information available yet.

If the Ultra 2 shares DNA with the Watch 9, we’re likely to see more advanced health features and greater processing power. With the Apple Watch Ultra 3 already making waves with its S10 chip and "Workout Buddy" AI features, Samsung can’t afford to just release another minor refresh.

For buyers weighing whether to wait, the current Galaxy Watch Ultra remains a solid pick. Its titanium build, dual-frequency GPS, rugged water- and impact-resistant design, and Galaxy AI–powered health tracking hold up well today.

Disclaimer: I can't guarantee you'll be able to buy the best Cyber Monday smartwatch deal available today. If you're persistent, though, you should be able to buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 for $199 ($150 off) on Samsung's website, instead of the $249 price you'll see on Amazon or Best Buy.

Here's what you do: Go to this Samsung.com link, and you'll likely see a $249 price tag at first. Don't give up! Scroll down to "Samsung trade-in," click "Yes, trade in," then click "No" next to it without entering a watch model. If you're like me, you'll see that the "Samsung Instant Credit" has updated to $150, and you'll scroll up to a $199 deal price!

That credit applies to other models, too, so you can get the Watch 8 44mm for $229 instead of $379, or the Watch 8 40mm LTE for $249 instead of $399! If the $150 credit doesn't show up for you, try refreshing the page or selecting other options, and see if the website decides to show this "exclusive" discount for you; if it doesn't, at least you can save $100, or more with a trade-in.

✅Recommended if: You want to prioritize affordability, but without losing hardware quality. You have a Samsung phone — the Galaxy Watch has a couple of exclusive features — and you want a design that's well-suited for sleep tracking, with unique stats like Antioxidant Index, Energy Score, and Vascular Load.

❌Skip this deal if: You dislike the unique squircle case design, you have a Pixel or OnePlus phone that'd work better with another smartwatch, or you're willing to pay extra for a Classic or Ultra.

You can also find some pretty massive discounts on Samsung's pricier models, like $200 off the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, making it cheaper than the original Galaxy Watch 8 price. I enjoyed reviewing the Watch 8 Classic because of its rotating bezel for more exact controls, along with a more traditional style. But the Watch 8 is the better last-minute deal, simply because it's $100 cheaper and lightweight enough to fit any wrist size.

I don't know how long these hidden Samsung watch deals will last — or even if you'll see them — but I assume they'll go away once Cyber Monday ends tonight. So if you're at all interested in a smartwatch upgrade, now's the time!

Cyber Monday deals - quick links

• Best Buy: up to 60% off Chromebooks, Android phones, and more
• Amazon: early discounts on headphones, smart home tech
• Walmart: early price drops on ASUS laptops, locked phones
• Samsung: new Galaxy XR headset, trade-in opportunities
• Verizon: free phones with new line, trade-in
• T-Mobile: free Galaxy phones, $300 back w/ 5G Home Internet
• Mint Mobile: 50% off Pixel 10, BOGO Unlimited plans
• AT&T: get a free Z Flip 7 with trade-in, new line
  
  More Cyber Monday coverage
• The best Google Pixel deals of Cyber Monday
• The best Samsung deals of Cyber Monday
• The best Motorola deals of Cyber Monday

The Black Friday smartwatch deals have landed, and they're even more impressive than we expected. For one, Best Buy's Black Friday sale includes $120 off the price of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7, which is easily one of our favorite last-gen smartwatches on the market.

Samsung launched the Galaxy Watch 7 with an improved processor and overall performance, as well as an upgraded heart rate sensor that's more accurate than previous versions. It also features useful gesture controls such as the double pinch and knock-on gestures, while users also like reports such as the medication interaction warnings, energy scores, and more.

✅Recommended if: you're looking for an affordable way to get into smartwatches and you don't need the latest release; you have other Samsung Galaxy devices and you want a watch with the utmost compatibility possible; you're looking for a watch with heart rate monitoring, GPS, sleep tracking, and other common modern smartwatch features.

❌Skip this deal if: you'd rather spend a little more to access the upgrades included on the Galaxy Watch 8; you prefer a super thin and lightweight fitness band-style watch for comfortable use while sleeping; you're looking for a watch with industry-leading battery life.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 was our favorite Android smartwatch upon release for more than one reason. It offers a good-looking AMOLED display, a wide range of health and fitness features, useful gestures, and the easy-to-use Wear OS that's suitable even for those who are new to the smartwatch game.

The differences between the Samsung Watch 7 and Watch 8 are somewhat subtle, with the latter-gen smartwatch featuring a marginal battery upgrade, new health tools and AI features, and a few other improvements. However, it's also worth noting that it sports the same Exynos W100 CPU, display specs, and sensors, meaning it's not so different from the newer model.

It also includes 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, as well as the Samsung BioActive sensor which features an Optical Bio-signal sensor, an Electrical Heart Signal sensor, and Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis. Add in dual-band GPS, Bluetooth, NFC, and up to two days of battery life, and you've got a pretty solid smartwatch for casual users at this $200 price point.

Black Friday 2025 - quick links

• Best Buy: major discounts on Chromebooks, Android phones, and more
• Amazon: official Black Friday discounts on tablets, smart home tech
• Walmart: early price drops on ASUS laptops, locked phones
• Samsung: new Galaxy XR headset, trade-in opportunities
• Verizon: free phones with new line, trade-in
• T-Mobile: free Galaxy phones, $300 back w/ 5G Home Internet
• Mint Mobile: 50% off Pixel 10, BOGO Unlimited plans
• AT&T: get a free Z Flip 7 with trade-in, new line
  
  More Black Friday coverage
• The best Google Pixel deals of Black Friday (so far)
• The best Samsung deals of Black Friday (so far)
• The best Motorola deals of Black Friday (so far)

Samsung is pulling out all the stops this year, rolling out some of its most compelling deals yet, perfectly timed for the highly anticipated Black Friday sales event and the upcoming holiday season. Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and this is a deal you'd be thankful you spotted! The company has dropped the price of the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic so low that it makes this premium watch an easy steal. Grab the $100 off deal before it's gone! Alternatively, if you something to trade in, you can send it to Samsung and save up to $300.

One of the key features of the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is the return of the physical rotating bezel for quick navigation of menus and notifications without touching the screen. It also comes built in with One UI 8, Gemini integration at its core, and a ton of new health and wellness metrics like the Antioxidant index.

✅Recommended if: You're someone who loves the feeling of having a rotating bezel, offering an intuitive and satisfying method of navigating the watch's interface, gives you all the latest health features, along with keeping you on track with fitness goals on the go, and if you love using your watch to download music/podcasts offline.

❌Skip this deal if: You're someone who is into smaller dials, as the Classic only comes in one 46mm size. If you already own a Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 or the Ultra, this isn't a significant upgrade for you.

As for the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic's standout specs, it weighs about 63.5 grams and has a Sapphire Crystal display, making consumers' viewing experience much better.

The smartwatch gets a new "Quick Button" for "added convenience." The smartwatch arrives with a 445mAh battery, 2GB of memory, and 64GB of storage. The smartwatch gets the faster WearOS 6 out of the box, along with a whole host of new health features like the "Antioxidant Index," which measures carotenoid levels in the blood in just five seconds to help users make more informed lifestyle choices.

Other than that, the Bedtime Guidance feature will "measure your circadian rhythm" to help you identify the best time to sleep. Additionally, the Watch 8 Classic features "Vascular Load," designed to help users understand their stress levels on their vascular system during the night.

Samsung is sweetening the deal by offering up to $300 in instant trade-in credit, potentially lowering the watch's price to just $299 on its Wi-Fi-only variant. Additionally, the company is including a complimentary 6-month iFit membership with the purchase.

More Black Friday deals - quick links

• Best Buy: up to 60% off Chromebooks, Android phones, and more
• Amazon: early discounts on headphones, smart home tech
• Walmart: early price drops on ASUS laptops, locked phones
• Samsung: new Galaxy XR headset, trade-in opportunities
• Verizon: free phones with new line, trade-in
• T-Mobile: free Galaxy phones, $300 back w/ 5G Home Internet
• Mint Mobile: 50% off Pixel 10, BOGO Unlimited plans
• AT&T: get a free Z Flip 7 with trade-in, new line
  
  More Black Friday coverage
• The best Google Pixel deals of Black Friday
• The best Samsung deals of Black Friday
• The best Motorola deals of Black Friday

What you need to know

• Samsung has started rolling out the One UI 8 Watch update (based on Wear OS 6) for the Galaxy Watch 6 series, beginning in South Korea.
• The update (firmware CYK2) introduces a redesigned interface with stacked tiles, making health stats, media controls, and tools easier to reach.
• A smarter Now bar improves multitasking by giving quicker access to background apps.

Samsung just kicked off a major software refresh for the Galaxy Watch 6 and Watch 6 Classic, and it’s the kind of update that makes a noticeable difference in how these watches work every day.

The stable One UI 8 Watch update, which is based on Wear OS 6, has officially started in South Korea, according to a user's post on X (via GSMArena). The update, with firmware version CYK2, introduces a new interface. Now, instead of moving between separate screens, you see stacked tiles that organize important information more clearly. This means that health data, media controls, timers, and other tools are now easier to find without having to swipe as much.

The update also adds a smarter Now bar, making it easier to access background apps quickly. Samsung is updating its wearables to match Google’s latest Wear OS changes, so the Watch 6 now gets features that fit the platform’s new design and app behavior.

Previous versions worked but did not include Google’s latest UI updates or improved health tracking. One UI 8 Watch fixes this by making animations smoother, improving multitasking, and giving the health dashboard a cleaner and more useful look.

How to get it now

If you own a Galaxy Watch 6 or Watch 6 Classic, checking for the update is pretty straightforward. Just open the Galaxy Wearable app, head to Watch settings, tap Watch software update, and hit Download and install.

It’s rolling out region by region, so don’t panic if it hasn’t reached your device yet. Samsung typically begins in South Korea before expanding to other markets, and this rollout appears to follow the same pattern.

Now the big question shifts to the rest of Samsung’s watch lineup. While the Galaxy Watch 5 series is expected to get Wear OS 6 as well, Samsung hasn’t offered a firm date. Considering how quickly the Watch 6 update landed after preview builds surfaced, the wait may not be long.

Some early Black Friday deals are traps, getting you to bite on an average deal before the truly big discounts arrive later. This isn't one of those times. The Galaxy Watch 7 has dipped to $129 (48% off), its lowest price ever by $20, and there's no reason to assume that price will fall lower. This is an everything-must-go sale, and the only question is how long the stock will last.

Having covered Galaxy Watch deals in Black Fridays past, I remember Samsung followed this pattern with the Galaxy Watch 6, dropping the price by 50% down to $139 before Black Friday and sticking to it through Cyber Monday. After that, Samsung took it off storefronts, and you could only find "renewed" models.

You can play chicken with Samsung and hope the Galaxy Watch 7 falls even further, but I wouldn't risk it. Amazon's storefront already says "Deal selling fast," which shows that people know this is a steal of a deal. You're paying Amazfit money for a powerful smartwatch with Wear OS 6, Play Store apps, and Gemini smarts, along with the promise of feature updates through late 2028.

✅Recommended if: You want cutting-edge performance that pairs closely with your Android smartphone for messaging; you want insights into your health and sleep data such as energy scores, heart rhythm, and sleep apnea detection; and you're invested in the Samsung ecosystem.

❌Skip this deal if: You need a smartwatch that'll last more than 1–2 days per charge, or you'd prefer another Galaxy Watch option, such as the Watch 8 Classic with its physical bezel controls, or the Watch Ultra with its enhanced battery life.

You have other options available, like the Galaxy Watch 8 for $279 ($70 off), but you'll need to do your research and decide if the Galaxy Watch 8 vs. 7 differences are substantial enough to pay the extra $150. The new model is much lighter and skinnier, with an extra 1,000 nits of brightness and new Samsung Health features like Vascular Load and Antioxidant Index. But is this enough for you to give up such an absurdly low price?

You should also decide whether you're willing to spend another $30 for the Galaxy Watch 7 44mm, or $50 more for LTE connectivity. The 1.3-inch Galaxy Watch 7 looks more natural on smaller wrists, while the 1.5-inch Watch 7 resizes content to take advantage of its larger screen.

Otherwise, you'll need to look at other Wear OS watch brands, and your options are limited. The Pixel Watch 3 at $199 ($100 off) is your next best bet, better suited to Pixel phones, but still significantly more expensive with one fewer year of software support. Likewise, the OnePlus Watch 3 at $249 ($100 off) is a great deal if you need longer battery life, but it's an alternative to a Galaxy Watch Classic or Ultra, not the light, skinny Watch 7.

More Black Friday 2025 - quick links

• Best Buy: up to 60% off Chromebooks, Android phones, and more
• Amazon: early discounts on headphones, smart home tech
• Walmart: early price drops on ASUS laptops, locked phones
• Samsung: new Galaxy XR headset, trade-in opportunities
• Verizon: free phones with new line, trade-in
• T-Mobile: free Galaxy phones, $300 back w/ 5G Home Internet
• Mint Mobile: 50% off Pixel 10, BOGO Unlimited plans
• AT&T: get a free Z Flip 7 with trade-in, new line
  
  More Black Friday coverage
• The best Google Pixel deals of Black Friday
• The best Samsung deals of Black Friday
• The best Motorola deals of Black Friday

When it comes to the best LTE smartwatches, Samsung, Google, and Apple each have their upsides. Apple Watches have 5G connectivity, while the Pixel Watch 4 LTE has satellite SOS support; Samsung's upside is that it typically charges half as much as its rivals for the cellular upgrade.

Right now, you can essentially get the 4G LTE upgrade for the Watch 8 Classic for "free." On Amazon, the standard Bluetooth Watch 8 Classic is $469 ($30 off), while the Watch 8 Classic LTE is also $469 ($80 off), an all-time low according to Camelcamelcamel.

You'll find a similar $80-off discount on the Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025), which includes LTE, if you're willing to spend another $100 for a titanium case and longer battery life for cellular tasks. But the Classic is the more affordable option, with better controls and similar perks.

✅Recommended if: You prefer Galaxy Watches in general for their four years of updates, seamless One UI 8 Watch Tiles and tools, and Samsung Health insights; you prefer physical controls and traditional style, and don't mind the extra weight required for them.

❌Skip this deal if: You want faster 5G connectivity or satellite connectivity in cellular dead zones; you'd wouldn't mind picking a lighter, cheaper model without the same chic, or a pricier model to get an extra day or two of battery life.

We may end up seeing a cheaper Galaxy Watch 8 Classic deal once Black Friday or Cyber Monday rolls around, but this deal is worth jumping on if you've been waiting for a good LTE smartwatch. The only real question for Android phone owners is if the Pixel Watch 4 LTE is a better fit.

Our Pixel Watch 4 vs. Galaxy Watch 8 Classic guide offers an in-depth comparison, but the gist is that Google's watch is less rugged, heavy, and "classically" styled, with a crown instead of a bezel. Both have Wear OS 6, but Google's stock version focuses more on stylish transitions and magnified content at the center of the domed display. It performed surprisingly well in our LTE battery life tests, and the emergency SOS feature is a nice bonus.

The Pixel Watch 4 LTE costs about the same as this Galaxy Watch 8 Classic deal, but we'd recommend the more expensive 45mm option, which is $499 at full price. So if you'd prefer Google's option, you may want to wait until Black Friday for its first major discount.

More Black Friday 2025 - quick links

• Best Buy: up to 60% off Chromebooks, Android phones, and more
• Amazon: early discounts on headphones, smart home tech
• Walmart: early price drops on ASUS laptops, locked phones
• Samsung: new Galaxy XR headset, trade-in opportunities
• Verizon: free phones with new line, trade-in
• T-Mobile: free Galaxy phones, $300 back w/ 5G Home Internet
• Mint Mobile: 50% off Pixel 10, BOGO Unlimited plans
• AT&T: get a free Z Flip 7 with trade-in, new line
  
• Black Friday Samsung Galaxy deals
• Black Friday Google Pixel deals
• Black Friday Motorola deals