Image source: Samsung

Samsung Galaxy Watch8 & Classic officially launch with upgraded health insights

July 9, 2025 Ivan Jovin Smartwatch 4 min read

Samsung has taken the wraps off the Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Watch8 Classic. Both models blend familiar hardware cues with a thinner profile, a few health add-ons, and new AI smarts via Gemini and Wear OS 6.

A slimmer build and redesigned fit

Arguably the biggest visual shift in the Galaxy Watch8 series lies in the new cushion-style design. This soft-square profile was introduced on the Ultra variant but now becomes standard across the range. Not everyone will be a fan, but it is what it is. Samsung says it has reworked the internal structure to improve mounting efficiency by 30 percent. This allowed the company to trim 11 percent off the thickness compared to previous models.

Combined with the flexible Dynamic Lug system, the Watch8 now sits flatter and adapts more naturally to the shape of your wrist. Samsung claims this helps not only with comfort but also improves sensor contact and the reliability of health readings.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

Visibility has also seen a jump. The display reaches a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, which is right up there with the best of them. Dual-frequency GPS is now onboard too, allowing for better positioning in busy urban environments or under tree cover. All this runs on Samsung’s new 3nm processor, aimed at improving both speed and power management.

Sensors go deeper, insights get more personal

Samsung’s BioActive Sensor continues to anchor the health stack, but this time it is supported by a wave of new software-driven metrics. The Watch8 series introduces several tools designed to make sense of sleep, stress, energy levels and long-term health.

Sleep Apnea detection makes a return, and new additions like Vascular Load offer a look at cardiovascular stress. The watch also includes circadian rhythm guidance through Bedtime Guidance, which advises when to wind down to match your natural body clock. As someone who has been using this on Ultrahuman Ring Air, I can attest that it is a very useful feature.

Another first is the Antioxidant Index. It’s a first for any smartwatch, not just Samsung watches. The feature measures carotenoid levels via the optical sensor in just five seconds. For those not in the know, this is an indicator of diet quality and oxidative stress. Samsung positions this as a useful marker for those interested in healthy aging and nutrition monitoring.

Energy Score, a new AI-derived tool, combines sleep, activity and stress data into a single readiness-style score. It aims to help users better understand when to push and when to rest, without relying on manual interpretation. The familiar Running Coach also returns, now with more tailored workout plans and real-time feedback.

Gemini assistant and Wear OS 6 integration

The Galaxy Watch8 series is the first to ship with Google’s Gemini assistant preinstalled. This allows users to issue natural voice commands that go beyond simple timers or alarms. For instance, you can ask for directions and send a message simultaneously.

Samsung has also updated its own skin with One UI 8 Watch. This brings a new layout with Multi-Info Tiles, an always-visible Now Bar, and better notifications. The entire UI is tuned to accommodate the round display, with more glanceable information and quicker access to tools like Samsung Health, Calendar and Clock.

Model breakdown and availability

The Galaxy Watch8 comes in two case sizes, 40mm and 44mm, in Graphite and Silver. It’s meant to be the daily driver in the lineup, striking a balance between wellness and style.

For something more traditional, the Galaxy Watch8 Classic reintroduces the physical rotating bezel. This version is only available in a larger 46mm case and comes in either Black or White.

Both models support a range of swappable bands, with Samsung offering several new styles at launch.

Pre-orders for the entire Watch8 series, including the more rugged Watch Ultra, start today. The Ultra variant, which includes titanium casing and extended battery life, now comes in four finishes including Titanium Blue. These also include more storage.

General availability begins on July 25. If you are holding on to an old watch, early reports are that trade-in deals are not as good as last year. Even in the US.