In an exciting reveal at the Unpacked event in July 2025, a renowned tech giant has introduced the Galaxy Watch8 series, which includes a much-anticipated Classic version featuring a rotating bezel. This model marks a return after a year-long hiatus, captivating fans of traditional smartwatch designs. Both variants of the watch have received significant design enhancements, drawing inspiration from the Galaxy Watch Ultra released last year, which showcased a unique squarish case paired with a circular bezel.
The Galaxy Watch8 boasts a remarkable display upgrade, now featuring a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, a significant improvement over the 2,000 nits offered by its predecessor, the Watch7. This enhancement ensures that users can enjoy optimal visibility even in bright sunlight, making it a practical choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Under the hood, the smartwatch is powered by the reliable Exynos W1000 chip and is equipped with a BioActive Sensor. This advanced sensor provides comprehensive health monitoring, including heart rate tracking, EKG readings, and body composition analysis, catering to health-conscious users.
In addition to its core functionalities, the smartwatch introduces several innovative features that were rolled out in the previous month. Among these is the Bedtime Guidance feature, which analyzes past sleep data to recommend optimal sleep times. Another notable addition is the Vascular Load feature, which assesses stress on the vascular system during sleep and offers lifestyle adjustments. The Running Coach feature provides tailored pacing suggestions for runners, while the Antioxidant Index measures carotenoids, a type of antioxidant found in fruits and vegetables. While these features offer valuable insights, their effectiveness may vary based on individual health conditions.
Both models operate on One UI 8 Watch, built on the Wear OS 6 platform. This software update introduces Gemini, an AI feature that allows users to ask questions without the need for typing. Gemini seamlessly integrates with various applications, including health tracking, calendar management, reminders, and clock functionalities, enhancing the overall user experience.
While there are no significant changes to the Galaxy Watch Ultra, a new Titanium Blue color option will be available for $650, appealing to those looking for a stylish upgrade.
The Galaxy Watch8 starts at a price of $350 for the Bluetooth model, which is $50 more than the previous generation, and $400 for the LTE variant. It is available in two sizes, 40mm and 44mm, in sleek graphite and silver finishes. The Classic version is priced at $500 for Bluetooth and $550 for LTE, featuring a 46mm size.
Tech enthusiasts gathered in Boston, MA, on July 15 for the unveiling, and pre-orders for the new watches commenced immediately. The devices are set to hit the shelves in the U.S. on July 25, promising to deliver cutting-edge technology and style to consumers.