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.
Don't think I mind the continued design (if this rumor's true). I will say that the Pixel Watch is a gorgeous device. A clean glass-dome design that's uniquely Google. Samsung's new approach with the Galaxy Watch 8 and that squircle design is clean, too. It's a comfortable watch and that's easy on the eyes. It's not overly gaudy or trying to do too much. For me, it makes sense that Samsung would think to stick with it.
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.
