Image source: Samsung

Galaxy Watch 6 gets new update… But seriously, who asked for this?

Samsung’s new software update for the Galaxy Watch 6 has ignited a wave of confusion, and even some amusement. At its core, it delivers some welcome security patches and bug fixes. Yet, the standout feature has everyone talking: the ability to view your health data on a compatible Samsung TV. This addition raises more questions than answers.


The disconnect: What users want vs. what they’re given

It’s difficult to fathom a widespread demand for turning your living room TV into a dashboard for calories burned and steps taken. The perceived value of this remains elusive. User feedback instead suggests that Samsung’s development efforts would be better spent on core enhancements such as improved battery life, a wider selection of watch faces, or ironing out persistent software glitches. This points to a concerning disconnect between the company’s direction and the desires of its user base.

Essential readingTop fitness trackers and health gadgets

“Who would have even asked for this?” and “They spent time and money developing this?” are sentiments echoed on Reddit. Indeed, the idea of projecting health data onto a TV seems to be met with confusion rather than enthusiasm. One user remarked, “This makes zero sense to me. And who would want it on the TV as well… like who cares?”

Some have drawn parallels between Samsung’s TV health data feature and certain unused features seen in Apple products. One commenter noted, “Reminds me of one of the many Apple features that nobody uses but people like to boast about having them.”

For info, Samsung’s 2024 TVs, monitors, projectors, and lifestyle products will support this new functionality.

Check your model size to find the corresponding firmware version:

  • Galaxy Watch 6
    • 40mm: R930TBU1AXB7
    • 44mm: R940XXU1AXB7
  • Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
    • 43mm: R950XXU1AXB7
    • 47mm: R960XXU1AXB7
Samsung update

The trend of questionable “innovation”

The puzzling TV health data display highlights a concerning trend in the tech industry – the allure of outlandish features sometimes overshadowing genuine improvements. It’s a familiar tale: companies get caught up in striving for the “next big thing” at the expense of refining their core product experience. The continued frustration among Galaxy Watch users over the lack of a simple browser-accessible version of Samsung Health is just one example of this phenomenon.


Regional preferences or global misfire?

As reported by SamLover, the initial rollout of the update is in South Korea. Which raises the question of cultural context.

Could it be that this feature caters to a specific need or desire within that market? It’s possible Samsung is tailoring its software based on a regional perspective that doesn’t translate well globally. Yet, for a wider audience, the decision remains baffling and casts a sense of uncertainty over Samsung’s understanding of its global user base.


Silver linings and unanswered questions

Despite the spotlight on the peculiar health data feature, the update does have its merits:

  • March 2024 Security Patch
  • Bug Fixes and Performance Improvements

While appreciated, these routine fixes can’t dispel the feeling of a misguided development approach. The Galaxy Watch 6 update leaves users yearning for more substantial improvements that speak to their practical needs. Instead, they are left with a feature that appears more perplexing than groundbreaking.

Like this article? Subscribe to our monthly newsletter and never miss out!

Marko Maslakovic

Marko founded Gadgets & Wearables in 2014, having worked for more than 15 years in the City of London’s financial district. Since then, he has led the company’s charge to become a leading information source on health and fitness gadgets and wearables.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.