Samsung hosted its Galaxy Unpacked 2025 today, which was packed with tons of announcements, mainly around AI features, its partnership with Google, and its foldable lineup. The tech giant also unveiled the Galaxy Watch 8 series, which marked a major design language shift and was not merely about software upgrades. While some are excited about the new look, others are rather disappointed over moving away from the classic feel of the smartwatch.
Galaxy Watch 8 series debuts with a bold new design, Wear OS 6, and a shift from the classic circular look
Samsung just launched its Galaxy Watch 8 series among many other key product launches. The most noteworthy change was the new design language for the wearable. The classic circular look is no more sported; instead, the tech giant has introduced what you may call a 'squircle', which is a combination of a square and a circle. The cushion design is inviting mixed reactions, especially given how the lineup has played it safe by sticking with the traditional aesthetics.
The Galaxy Watch 8 additionally incorporated a new component mounting process for the new series, which has helped slim down the base model significantly from its predecessor by restructuring the internal layout. Another upgrade is the Dynamic Lug system, which was added to improve the fit and ergonomics and was initially launched with the Watch Ultra last year.
The sapphire crystal display is seen in both the Galaxy Watch 8 and the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, which helps deliver a better and brighter wearable screen experience. Both models feature the Exynos W1000 processor and have 2GB of RAM capacity to ensure a smoother experience. The core features remain mostly the same, except for the 64GB internal storage offered for the Classic model, which helps provide more space for apps and other content.
The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic and Watch 8 do not support the same charging standard as the Watch Ultra and cannot last days on a single charge. The Classic version offers a 445mAh battery, while the standard Watch 8 model comes with a 435mAh battery. For users looking for extended battery life, especially those who travel frequently and go on hikes, the Ultra model makes more sense.
Samsung has made some major health and fitness capabilities improvements for the Galaxy Watch 8 series, as there are improved GPS sensors now installed for better accuracy and features like Running Coach to help with more accurate route tracking. The Sleep tracking feature also comes with several new additions, including stress level management and even bedtime guidance to help ensure sound sleep. An antioxidant index has also been added to help understand your body's ability to handle stress.
The Galaxy Watch 8 series is also the first wearable lineup to come with Gemini, which will run on Wear OS 6 natively via the One UI Watch 8 update. The Galaxy Watch 8 is available in two color options, Silver and Graphite, and two size variations: 40mm and 44mm. The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, on the other hand, is coming in Black and White color options and would be available in a single 46mm size. The Watch 8 is available for $349, while the Watch 8 Classic starts at $499. The new Galaxy Watch Ultra is available in Titanium Blue and is priced on the higher end at $649. All three wearable models are available for pre-order starting today on Samsung's official website.
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