Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Series: A New Chapter in Smartwatch Advancements
Samsung has once again amazed technology fans with the introduction of its newest smartwatch lineup at the Unpacked July 2025 event. The Galaxy Watch8 and the highly awaited Galaxy Watch8 Classic featuring a rotating bezel have officially arrived, offering a combination of cutting-edge functionalities and timeless design features.
Design Revamp and Display Improvements
The Galaxy Watch8 series has experienced a notable design overhaul, taking cues from the Galaxy Watch Ultra. The fresh models showcase a squarish casing encircling a round bezel, presenting a contemporary yet recognizable look. A remarkable aspect is the enhanced display, reaching a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, a considerable jump from the 2,000 nits of its predecessor, the Watch7. This upgrade guarantees excellent visibility, even under bright sunlight.
Enhanced Health Monitoring Capabilities
Retaining the Exynos W1000 chip, the Galaxy Watch8 series remains focused on health monitoring with its BioActive Sensor. This sensor can track heart rate, EKGs, and body composition analysis, delivering users with extensive health data. Samsung has also rolled out several new features, including:
- Bedtime Guidance: Provides tailored sleep recommendations based on historical sleep data.
- Vascular Load: Evaluates stress on the vascular system during sleep and offers lifestyle alteration advice.
- Running Coach: Assists users in keeping an ideal pace when running.
- Antioxidant Index: Gauges carotenoids, a form of antioxidant, to provide nutritional insights.
Though these features aim to improve user health, they depend on various assumptions and calculations that might not always apply practically in real life.
Software and Compatibility
Both the Galaxy Watch8 and Watch8 Classic run on One UI 8 Watch, built on Wear OS 6. This software update presents Gemini, a feature that enables users to ask questions without the need for typing. Gemini is smoothly integrated with Samsung Health, Calendar, Reminder, and Clock applications, improving the overall user interface.
Pricing and Release
The Galaxy Watch8 comes in two sizes, 40mm and 44mm, and is available in graphite and silver hues. The Bluetooth model starts at $350, while the LTE variant is priced at $400. The Galaxy Watch8 Classic, which includes the hallmark rotating bezel, is priced at $500 for the Bluetooth version and $550 for the LTE model, offered in a 46mm size.
Samsung is also introducing a new Titanium Blue color option for the Galaxy Watch Ultra, priced at $650. Preorders for all models are currently available, with general sales in the U.S. beginning on July 25.
Conclusion
Samsung’s Galaxy Watch8 series signifies a major leap in smartwatch technology, fusing state-of-the-art features with classic design aspects. Whether you are a fitness lover or a technology enthusiast, the new series has something to offer for everyone. With its sophisticated health monitoring features and enhanced display, the Galaxy Watch8 series is set to establish new benchmarks in the wearable tech sector.
Q&A Session
Q1: What are the main distinctions between the Galaxy Watch8 and Watch8 Classic?
A1: The main distinction lies in the design; the Watch8 Classic includes a rotating bezel, whereas the Watch8 does not. Additionally, the Classic is offered in a larger 46mm size.
Q2: How does the display of the Galaxy Watch8 measure up to earlier models?
A2: The Galaxy Watch8 boasts a brighter display with a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, compared to 2,000 nits on the Watch7, enhancing visibility in bright settings.
Q3: What health functionalities are available in the Galaxy Watch8 series?
A3: The series features a BioActive Sensor for heart rate, EKGs, and body composition analysis, along with new functionalities like Bedtime Guidance, Vascular Load, Running Coach, and Antioxidant Index.
Q4: What is Gemini, and how does it improve the smartwatch experience?
A4: Gemini is a feature enabling users to pose questions without typing, integrated with Samsung Health, Calendar, Reminder, and Clock apps, enhancing user engagement and convenience.
Q5: When will the Galaxy Watch8 series be available for purchase?
A5: Preorders are currently open, with general availability in the U.S. set to commence on July 25.
Q6: What are the pricing details for the Galaxy Watch8 and Watch8 Classic?
A6: The Galaxy Watch8 begins at $350 for the Bluetooth model and $400 for the LTE version. The Watch8 Classic is priced at $500 for the Bluetooth version and $550 for the LTE version.
