Samsung's Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Watch 7 have stepped into the spotlight, ushering in new performance benchmarks and price points. Revealed at the latest Samsung Unpacked event, these wearables aim to set new standards in health and fitness wearables, stepping up the game against competitors like Apple's Watch Ultra.
The Galaxy Watch Ultra, with its robust 47mm case, emerges as a direct competitor to Apple's rugged Watch Ultra. It's designed to cater to sports and health enthusiasts, boasting features like a triathlon-friendly Multi-sports tile and an AI-powered Functional Threshold Power measure for cycling. Its titanium grade 4 frame and 10ATM water resistance showcase Samsung's commitment to durability. Additionally, the device sports a new orange Quick Button, providing easy access to workout apps, flashlight, and water lock among other functions.
Samsung highlights that the interconnectivity among its devices is a substantial benefit, emphasizing that the Galaxy Ring can interact with other gadgets in the ecosystem. Priced at $399.99 in the U.S., the Galaxy Ring offers health monitoring, sleep analysis, and heart rate insights. By incorporating AI, the ring can provide an Energy Score and offer wellness recommendations, making it a noteworthy competitor in the smart ring sector.
The Galaxy Watch 7, meanwhile, comes in two sizes: 40mm priced at $299.99 and 44mm at $329.99. It's available in exciting new strap colors but maintains the same general design as its predecessor. Despite its familiar look, the new Watch 7 sports substantial internal upgrades. Upgraded to Wear OS 5 and One UI 6 Watch, it includes a 3nm Exynos W1000 chip with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. The device carries an upgraded Samsung BioActive Sensor for improved heart rate, EKG, and body composition analysis.
A standout feature is the watch's Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) Index, which evaluates the wearer's overall biological aging process. Notably, the Galaxy Watch 7 also holds FDA De Novo clearance for sleep apnea detection, making it an industry-first in this regard.
The absence of Wireless PowerShare in the latest models has stirred some controversy among users. Samsung attributed this decision to the new BioActive sensor’s unique design, which necessitated altering the smartwatch’s backglass. Removing Wireless PowerShare allowed for better and deeper health metrics, a tradeoff some users find worthwhile due to the improved functionality.
The Galaxy Watch Ultra and Watch 7 aim to fill niches previously dominated by other brands. The Ultra's squircle-shaped titanium case, brighter screen, and longer battery life reflect Samsung’s ambition to forge a distinct identity within the smartwatch market. The watches come with new strap options catering to various sports, such as running and swimming, enhancing their appeal among fitness enthusiasts.
Amid the flurry of new features, it’s the Galaxy Watch 7’s FDA-cleared sleep apnea detection that truly stands out. This feature leverages sleep tracking data to indicate potential sleep apnea, intended as a preliminary health monitoring tool rather than a diagnostic device. Users are encouraged to consult healthcare providers if they notice sleep disturbances suggestive of moderate to severe sleep apnea.
In summary, Samsung's new offerings are a well-calculated move to rival Apple’s Watch Ultra while carving out a niche in the smartwatch market. The combination of durability, advanced health features, and new AI capabilities is poised to attract a diverse range of users. As pre-orders begin, the excitement surrounding these new devices is palpable, with shipping set to start on July 24. These developments signal a promising future for Samsung’s wearables, blending innovation with practical health applications.
With advancements like these, the wearables market awaits the consumer's verdict. Whether these features resonate with users or not, Samsung's leap forward is a bold step in reimagining the potential of smartwatches.