Top user-requested features for the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 is on the horizon, sparking interest in what new features and improvements it might offer. This upcoming addition to Samsung’s smartwatch line is expected to further refine the balance between technology and everyday usability. But will it be another iterative upgrade, or something more?
The current generation was unveiled a few months ago at the Galaxy Unpacked event. Samsung released Galaxy Watch 6 and Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, capturing the spotlight with their refined designs and enhanced functionalities. The first is offered in sleek 40mm and 44mm models, and embodies a modern, minimalist style. In contrast, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is available in more robust 43mm and 47mm variants, featuring a classic design complete with a physical rotating bezel, adding a tactile dimension to the user experience.
Both models are powered by the efficient 1.4 GHz Exynos W930 chip and operate on Google’s latest Wear OS 4, paired with Samsung’s intuitive One UI 5 Watch interface. This combination delivers a smooth, user-friendly experience with easy access to favorite apps like WhatsApp and Gmail, and a rich suite of health and fitness features. The watches boast larger, brighter screens than their predecessors, offering crystal-clear display even in bright conditions. The health tracking is comprehensive, thanks to Samsung’s BioActive Sensor, which monitors everything from heart rate to sleep patterns, and even body composition in the Galaxy Watch 6. Plus there has been a slight improvement in battery life.
But what about the next wearable in the series? What innovations will it bring? More of the same or a significant revamp? Here are the rumours so far, our expectations and the top requested features by users.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7: Release date
Let’s start off with the release-date. No awards for correct guesses as this is pretty straightforward.
Traditionally, Samsung has unveiled new models of the Galaxy Watch series around the end of July or the beginning of August. For instance, in 2023, the debut happened on July 26th. There’s little reason to suspect a deviation from this established timeline in the coming year.
Therefore, it’s reasonable to anticipate the arrival of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 in the summer of 2024. Following Samsung’s usual rollout strategy, we can expect that the actual shipping of the device will begin approximately two to three weeks after the official launch event.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7: Price
Over the past few generations, there has been a noticeable trend in the pricing of Galaxy Watches. Starting at $250, the subsequent models saw a gradual price increase, with the next generations priced at $280 and $300, respectively. Interestingly, the cost for size and LTE upgrades has remained consistent across all models.
These types of price increases are to be expected. The cost of most goods is creeping up as indicated by global inflation figures. Couple this with enhancements in design and functionality, and possibly the rising costs of components and manufacturing.
Having said that, other companies have managed to keep costs consistent across generations – Garmin is one example. So it remains to be seen whether Samsung stops here or we get yet another price hike. Nevertheless, despite these increases, the Galaxy Watch continues to maintain a competitive edge in pricing when compared to its main rivals, like the Apple Watch and Pixel Watch. This is important in the battle for wrist space.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7: Rumours and what we know so far
There is still plenty of time to go before we see the Galaxy Watch 7. So only one rumour so far, but no doubt in the months ahead we will get more info.
In a recent 2023 report from SamMobile, it’s been revealed that Samsung Display is actively working on commercializing MicroLED technology for smartwatches. Last year, a dedicated task force was set up to develop this technology, with aims to finalize it within the year. This initiative is partly driven by Samsung Display’s desire to retain Apple as a client, supplying OLED panels for current Apple Watches and aspiring to continue this partnership for future microLED models. If Samsung succeeds in mass-producing microLED, it’s expected to quickly implement this technology in its own watch line.
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Which means there’s a chance we could see the incorporation of this technology in the Galaxy Watch 7 series. However, the timeline is uncertain. Apple, aiming to introduce microLED in its Apple Watch Ultra by 2025, may not replace the OLED in its mainline models until costs decrease significantly. So it’s an outside chance.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7: What we want, user Wishlist
As there is little in terms of actual rumours, we only have speculation for now. Here’s a list of our recommendations for the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7. We have also included info from a recent Reddit thread where users chimed in with their Wishlist.
Enhanced battery life
One of the most common requests from users is for significantly longer battery life. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 and Watch 6 Classic feature improved battery capacities of 300mAh or 425mAh, depending on the size, offering a slight enhancement over the previous generation. They provide up to 40 hours of battery life, or 30 hours with the Always On Display function, and are equipped with 10W fast charging, allowing an 8-minute charge to yield an extra eight hours of battery life.
The ideal scenario mentioned is a battery that can last at least a week on a single charge, a substantial upgrade from current capabilities. This improvement would not only increase convenience but also make the watch more practical for extended use, such as multi-day hiking trips or long periods away from charging facilities. Such a large improvement is unlikely, but any advancement would be welcome.
Advanced processor and more storage
The desire for a more powerful and efficient processor, such as a 3nm chip, reflects users’ demands for a faster, more responsive, and efficient smartwatch. An advanced processor could enhance the overall performance of the watch, making it quicker in processing commands, running applications smoothly, and potentially contributing to better battery management.
Also, the current generation has 16GB of storage space. Samsung could easily bump this up to twice that, matching what users of the latest generation Apple Watch series and Pixel Watch have to play with.
Fingerprint authentication
Integrating fingerprint authentication into the Galaxy Watch 7 is a highly sought-after security feature. Users suggest incorporating this technology into one of the existing buttons for easy access. This feature would not only provide an additional layer of security for the device but also offer a convenient and quick way to unlock the watch or authenticate payments.
Retain the rotating bezel
The rotating bezel is a distinctive feature of Samsung watches, appreciated for its ease of navigation through the interface. Users strongly suggest retaining this feature in the Galaxy Watch 7, as it provides an intuitive and physical way to interact with the watch, setting it apart from other smartwatches in the market.
Improved health and fitness tracking
There is a clear demand for more accurate and comprehensive health and fitness tracking features. Users are specifically asking for more reliable sleep tracking, precise heart rate monitoring, and innovative additions such as a non-invasive blood glucose monitor. These improvements would make the watch a more effective tool for health management and fitness tracking. Also, improvements in the blood pressure tracking functionality would be welcome as it leaves much to be desired in its current form.
Better water resistance and diving features
Enhanced water resistance and diving features are also high on the wish list. Users are looking for a watch that can withstand activities like scuba diving, possibly with a water resistance rating of 10 ATM or higher. Additionally, integrating a water/ambient thermometer could provide valuable information for divers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Solar charging and durable build
The interest in solar charging reflects a growing awareness of environmental sustainability. Although there are challenges in implementing effective solar charging in a small device like a smartwatch, users express a willingness to pay extra for this feature. Coupled with a durable build, such as a titanium casing, the watch would appeal to environmentally conscious consumers looking for a robust device.
Enhanced music and audio streaming
Users desire improvements in the music application and audio streaming capabilities of the watch. This includes requests for higher resolution audio streaming to wireless headsets and a more user-friendly music app interface. Such enhancements would elevate the entertainment experience of the watch, making it a more versatile companion for daily use.
Smart functionalities and app integration
The call for enhanced smart functionalities and broader app integration in the Galaxy Watch 7 underscores a desire for a more seamless and integrated user experience. Improved voice-to-text capabilities in multiple languages would cater to a global audience, making interactions more natural and convenient. Expanding compatibility with a wide range of third-party apps would also open up new possibilities, allowing users to personalize their smartwatch experience to suit their individual needs and preferences.
Improved GPS and route features
Enhancements in GPS capabilities are a crucial aspect of the anticipated improvements for the Galaxy Watch 7. Users expect more accurate and reliable location tracking, which is vital for activities like outdoor navigation, sports tracking, and fitness monitoring.
Improved route planning features would appeal to adventurers and athletes who depend on precise and dependable GPS for planning and tracking their activities. The ability to support offline maps would be an additional benefit, particularly useful in areas with limited connectivity. Such improvements would not only enhance the user experience for outdoor and fitness activities but also position the Galaxy Watch 7 as a more competent device in the realm of location-based services and navigation tools.
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