Samsung’s One UI 8 Watch update is poised to bring significant enhancements to its Galaxy Watch lineup. This update, based on Wear OS 6, introduces features like the Now Bar, Now Brief, and a new Shortcuts app, aiming to improve user interaction and health tracking capabilities.
Eligible Galaxy Watch Models for One UI 8 Watch Update
Samsung has committed to providing up to four years of One UI Watch and Wear OS updates for its smartwatches. Based on this commitment, the following models are expected to receive the One UI 8 Watch update:
- Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic: Released in August 2021, these models are within the four-year update window and are anticipated to receive the update before August 2025.
- Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro: Launched in August 2022, these watches are well within the support period.
- Galaxy Watch 6 and Watch 6 Classic: Introduced in August 2023, these models are expected to receive the update.
- Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra: As the latest models, they will naturally be included in the update rollout.
- Galaxy Watch FE: Although a budget model, it is also slated to receive the One UI 8 Watch update.
Key Features of One UI 8 Watch
Now Bar and Now Brief: These features provide contextual information directly on the watch face, such as media controls, directions, and health updates. Users can choose between a minimal or comprehensive display and access it using a double-pinch gesture.
Shortcuts App: This new app allows users to add app shortcuts to the home screen in two sizes—2×1 and 2×2—facilitating quicker access to frequently used applications.
Gemini AI Integration: Replacing Google Assistant, Gemini AI offers functionalities like managing calendar events and summarizing emails, enhancing the smartwatch’s utility.
Antioxidant Index: A new health metric in Samsung Health, this feature measures beta carotene levels in the skin, providing insights into the user’s nutritional status.
Adaptive Charging: This feature helps preserve battery health by allowing users to set charging thresholds, preventing overcharging and extending battery lifespan.
Expected Release Timeline
Samsung is anticipated to launch the One UI 8 Watch update alongside the Galaxy Watch 8 series, likely in July 2025. This aligns with the company’s strategy of synchronizing software updates with new hardware releases.
The One UI 8 Watch update represents a significant step forward in Samsung’s smartwatch software, introducing features that enhance user experience and health monitoring. Owners of eligible Galaxy Watch models can look forward to these improvements in the coming months.
