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As is the custom every summer, Samsung announced this Wednesday the update of its smartwatch line, introducing two new models: the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9.
While I’ve previously tested the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, I also got a chance to handle the standard model. Without further ado, here are some preliminary thoughts before a more thorough review.
A largely unchanged design
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 largely retains the design, features, and form factor of Samsung’s previous smartwatch. It’s worth mentioning that last year’s Galaxy Watch 8 introduced a new “squircular” design, and the Korean brand is keen on continuing this style in its new releases.
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This is not necessarily a negative aspect. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 was impressive last year with a particularly thin 8.6 mm case, available in either 40 mm or 44 mm sizes. Unsurprisingly, the Galaxy Watch 9 maintains this advantage, offering a comfortable and lightweight format:
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| Characteristics | Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 40 mm | Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 40 mm | Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 44 mm | Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 44 mm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Case size | 40.4 x 42.7 x 8.6 mm | 40.4 x 42.7 x 8.6 mm | 43.7 x 46.0 x 8.6 mm | 43.7 x 46.0 x 8.6 mm |
| Weight (without strap) | 30 grams | 31.5 grams | 34 grams | 34 grams |
| Battery | 325 mAh | 390 mAh | 435 mAh | 445 mAh |
| Screen diameter | 1.34 inches | 1.34 inches | 1.47 inches | 1.47 inches |
| Resolution | 438 x 438 pixels | 438 x 438 pixels | 480 x 480 pixels | 480 x 480 pixels |
| Peak brightness | 3000 cd/m² | 3000 cd/m² | 3000 cd/m² | 3000 cd/m² |
| Chip | Exynos W1000 | Snapdragon Wear Elite | Exynos W1000 | Snapdragon Wear Elite |
Thus, in practice, the watch is easily forgotten on the wrist thanks to its thinness and the use of aluminum for the case.
Moreover, Samsung wisely changed its strap system, opting this time for a traditional buckle clasp instead of a sliding flap system that goes between the skin and the strap. This small change significantly enhances comfort and prevents irritations.
As shown in the table above, while the new Galaxy Watch 9 retains the same dimensions as the previous model, the real differences lie under the hood.
A new processor, but an identical screen
Samsung has indeed decided to increase the battery capacity for both sizes, by approximately 20% for the 40 mm version and 2.3% for the 44 mm version. Coupled with a new Snapdragon Wear Elite processor designed for greater energy efficiency, this should result in a slight improvement in battery life compared to the Galaxy Watch 8. However, we will need to wait for tests of the new Galaxy Watch 9 to confirm this.
Unsurprisingly, the panel of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 remains unchanged with the same size, resolution, and peak brightness at 3000 cd/m². Although this may seem modest compared to the 5000 cd/m² of the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, it should still be sufficient for most daily uses, including checking the time while running outdoors on a sunny afternoon.
Primarily software updates
In reality, the hardware updates are rather minor for this iteration of the Galaxy Watch. The same heart rate sensor is found on the back, and the health metrics remain unchanged. Once again, the real changes are internal but on the software side.
Samsung has indeed revamped its Samsung Health app, now organized around five main metrics: activity, sleep, vitals, mindfulness, and nutrition. Additionally, the data measured by the watch will feed into new health scores and indicators. This is a great idea for better navigation without needing a medical degree.
However, it is important to note that these software innovations are not exclusive to the Galaxy Watch 9, as they are available through updates to all Samsung watches via the Samsung Health app.
Pricing and availability of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 is available for pre-order starting today. It comes in graphite or cream for the 40 mm model and graphite or silver for the 44 mm model. The first shipments are scheduled for August 7th.
As for pricing, the cost of the watch will depend on the size and connectivity option selected:
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 40 mm Bluetooth: 409 euros
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 44 mm Bluetooth: 439 euros
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 40 mm 4G: 459 euros
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 44 mm 4G: 489 euros
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During Samsung’s summer Galaxy Unpacked conference, the manufacturer unveiled its latest products.
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Maya Singh is a senior editor covering tablets and hybrid devices. Her work explores how these tools reshape digital productivity and learning. She also contributes to feature editorials on emerging tech.
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