Introduction to the Galaxy Watch 8 Series
Samsung has officially launched its latest Galaxy Watch 8 series today, July 9, during its Unpacked event. This new lineup brings a range of design and technological advancements, offering users a more refined and feature-rich smartwatch experience.
Galaxy Watch 8 Classic: A Return with Modern Touches
The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic makes a comeback with a design that echoes the Galaxy Watch Ultra. It features a “cushion” design, where the circular watch face sits on a square-like base. The 46mm model (1.34-inch display) is available in black and white options for around $500. Samsung claims the screen is slimmer and brighter, enhancing the viewing experience. The rotating bezel remains, making navigation through apps more intuitive.
Key specifications include a 445mAh battery, 2GB of memory, and 64GB of storage. Additionally, the Watch 8 Classic introduces a “Quick Button” for added convenience, allowing users to access frequently used functions quickly.
Health and Wellness Features
Samsung highlights several health-focused features in the Galaxy Watch 8 series. The “Antioxidant Index” allows users to measure their carotenoid levels in just five seconds, promoting healthier aging. The sleep monitoring tools have been enhanced, offering tailored sleep coaching, severe sleep apnea detection, and the ability to create an ideal sleep environment.
Other notable features include:
- Bedtime Guidance: Measures the circadian rhythm to determine the best time to sleep.
- Vascular Load: Helps understand stress levels on the vascular system during the night.
- High Stress Alerts and Mindfulness Tracker: Assists in managing mood and stress throughout the day.
- Breathing Exercises: Provides guided sessions to help users relax.
- Running Coach and Together Function: Encourages fitness activities with friends in a game-like format.
- Energy Score: Utilizes AI to provide a comprehensive view of daily energy levels.
Integration with Google’s Gemini and Wear OS 6
Samsung has partnered with Google to bring Gemini to the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, powered by Wear OS 6. This integration allows hands-free functionality, such as asking the AI to locate nearby cafes or send messages. The Samsung Health app, along with Calendar, Reminder, and Clock, can also be used hands-free with Gemini.
Additionally, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic runs on One UI 8 Watch, which has been optimized for the device’s screen. It includes Multi-Info tiles and a watch variant of the Now Bar, similar to the Galaxy S25 series.
Galaxy Watch 8: Thinner and More Comfortable
The Galaxy Watch 8 model boasts the thinnest build yet, being approximately 11% thinner than previous iterations. Samsung introduced a new “Dynamic Lug” system to improve comfort and fit when worn. The Watch 8 is available in two sizes: 40mm (1.34-inch display) and 44mm (1.47-inch display).
The 44mm version offers a 50% increase in brightness, reaching up to 3,000nits. Like the Classic model, the Watch 8 features the “cushion” design inspired by the Galaxy Watch Ultra. It includes similar health and fitness features, powered by Google’s AI, Gemini, and One UI 8 Watch (Wear OS 6).
Internally, both models use the Exynos W1000 SoC. The Bluetooth versions start at around $360 for the 40mm model and $400 for the 44mm variant.
Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025): The Most Advanced Model
Samsung also unveiled the 2025 Galaxy Watch Ultra, described as the most advanced and durable version. It features an IP68 rating for water resistance and a MIL-STD-810H durability rating. The Ultra comes with 64GB of storage and 2GB of memory, along with an upgraded battery that lasts up to 100 hours.
Additional features include Samsung Health, Gemini, multi-info tiles, and more. The Ultra is available in Titanium Blue, Titanium Gray, and Titanium Silver, starting at $649 for the 47mm model.
Conclusion
The Galaxy Watch 8 series represents a significant step forward in smartwatch technology, combining sleek designs with advanced health and wellness features. Whether you’re looking for a classic design, a thinner model, or the most advanced version, there’s something for every user in this new lineup.
