Samsung Watch8: Classic Version Returns

Samsung Unveils Galaxy Watch8 Series

Today, at the July 2025 Unpacked event, Samsung officially launched the Galaxy Watch8 smartwatch. Alongside it, the Galaxy Watch8 Classic was also revealed, notably featuring a rotating bezel – a design element that returns after a one-year absence.

Design and Display Enhancements

Both new watch models have received a significant design update. They now share aesthetic similarities with last year’s Galaxy Watch Ultra, characterized by a squarish case surrounding a circular bezel.

The Galaxy Watch8 boasts an improved screen, offering a peak brightness of 3,000 nits. This represents a substantial increase compared to the 2,000 nits found on the Watch7, enhancing visibility in bright outdoor conditions.

Core Features and Sensors

The watches continue to utilize the Exynos W1000 chip. Furthermore, they incorporate the BioActive Sensor, enabling measurements of heart rate, electrocardiograms (EKGs), and detailed body composition analysis.

New Software and Health Tracking

Several features previously introduced last month are now integrated into the Galaxy Watch8 series. These include:

Bedtime Guidance: Provides personalized sleep schedule recommendations based on tracked sleep data.
Vascular Load: Assesses stress levels on the vascular system during sleep and suggests lifestyle adjustments.
Running Coach: Optimizes running pace for improved performance.
Antioxidant Index: Measures carotenoid levels – antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables.

It’s important to note that many of these health features rely on complex calculations and assumptions, and the resulting scores and suggestions may not always be practically applicable.

Software Updates and Gemini Integration

Both watches operate on One UI 8 Watch, built upon Wear OS 6. This software update brings Gemini to smartwatches, allowing for voice-activated queries without the need for typing.

Gemini is seamlessly integrated with core Samsung applications, including Samsung Health, Calendar, Reminder, and Clock.

Galaxy Watch Ultra and Color Options

While the Galaxy Watch Ultra itself isn’t undergoing hardware revisions, Samsung is introducing a new Titanium Blue colorway, priced at $650.

Pricing and Availability

The Galaxy Watch8 starts at $350 for the Bluetooth model, a $50 increase over its predecessor. The LTE version is available for $400. The watch comes in 40mm and 44mm sizes, offered in graphite and silver finishes.

The Galaxy Watch8 Classic is priced at $500 for the Bluetooth version and $550 for the LTE version, and is available in a single 46mm size.

Pre-orders for all models commence today, with general availability in the U.S. scheduled for July 25.