On July 9, 2025, Samsung officially launched the Galaxy Watch 8, a smartwatch that redefines the line’s visual identity with a “squircle” format and improves the user experience with the integration of the Gemini assistant. Embora maintains the processor of its predecessor, the Galaxy Watch 7, the new device relies on a significantly brighter screen and exclusive health features to stand out in the competitive wearables market.
The new model arrives accompanied by the Classic and Ultra versions, consolidating the South Korean company’s strategy to unify the aesthetics of its devices. The main proposal is to offer specific innovations, focused on software and usability, that justify the update for current users and attract new consumers to the Galaxy ecosystem.
Differences between generations focus on design, display brightness and wellness monitoring features, while hardware performance remains unchanged. The Essa approach allows Samsung to segment its offerings, positioning the Watch 8 as the premium option and the Watch 7 as an excellent value for money alternative.
Renewed design and unprecedented brightness screen
The main evolution of the Galaxy Watch 8 is in its screen and design, determining factors for the user experience. The new model abandons the traditionally circular shape to adopt a “squircle” design, square with rounded corners, giving a modern appearance in line with the Galaxy Watch Ultra of 2024. The aluminum frame receives a brushed finish, more sophisticated than the smooth material of the Watch 7, while the sapphire crystal protection is maintained to ensure durability. The big highlight, however, is the Super AMOLED display, which now reaches a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, surpassing the 2,000 nits of the previous model and even the 2,600 nits of the Galaxy S25 smartphone. Essa enhancement ensures exceptional visibility in direct sunlight, making it ideal for outdoor activities without compromising the energy efficiency of the Always On Display function.
Consistent hardware and improved connectivity
In terms of performance, the Samsung maintained the solid foundation of the Galaxy Watch 7. Ambos models are equipped with the 3-nanometer Exynos W1000 processor, which already represented a leap in performance compared to previous generations. The configuration of 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB of internal storage was also preserved, ensuring fluidity in running applications and sufficient space for music and watch faces.
Robust connectivity remains a strong point, with dual-frequency (L1+L5) GPS support for accurate fitness tracking. Connection options include versions with Bluetooth 5.3 and LTE, the latter offering independence from the smartphone. The presence of dual-band Wi-Fi and NFC for contactless payments completes the suite, ensuring complete integration with the Galaxy ecosystem and other devices.
New AI-Driven Health Metrics
The Galaxy Watch 8 differentiates itself from its predecessor by introducing new health features, even sharing the 13-LED BioActive sensor. The big news is the use of Galaxy AI artificial intelligence to extract deeper insights from the data collected.
Among the unique features is the high stress alert, which monitors the user’s levels throughout the day and suggests relaxation exercises when necessary. Outra unprecedented function is the vascular load analysis, which evaluates the quality of sleep and provides recommendations for a more restful rest.
The device is also capable of measuring antioxidant content through carotenoid levels in the skin, offering a broader view of the body’s overall health. Para runners, a new virtual coach creates personalized training plans and offers real-time feedback.
These features are added to those already existing in the Watch 7, such as sleep apnea monitoring, electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood pressure measurement, positioning the new model as an even more complete well-being tool.
Operating system and the debut of the Gemini assistant
Software experience is one of the pillars of Galaxy Watch 8, which debuts native integration with Gemini, Google’s artificial intelligence assistant. Essa new feature allows for more complex and contextual voice interactions, such as starting a workout, getting directions or composing messages in a natural way, without the need for strict commands.
The operating system is Wear OS 5, with the new One UI 8 Watch interface from Samsung. The update brings visual and functional improvements, including the Now Bar, which displays ongoing activities, and the Multi-Info Tiles, which consolidates health, weather and calendar information into a single dynamic widget.
The system also offers intelligent responses to messages, with AI-generated suggestions that synchronize with the smartphone. Embora o Galaxy Watch 7 also receives Wear OS 5, it does not have the deep integration of Gemini, making the Watch 8 interface more agile and intelligent.
Battery life and charging changes
The battery capacity received a slight increase in the Galaxy Watch 8. The 40 mm version now has 325 mAh, while the 44 mm has 435 mAh. Apesar of the increase, the autonomy estimated by the Samsung remains at around 30 hours with the Always On Display mode activated, a number similar to that of its predecessor.
Fast charging via the standard Qi magnetic base has been retained, allowing the watch to be fully recharged in approximately one hour. A notable change, however, is the absence of support for Wireless PowerShare, a feature that allowed charging the watch using the back of an Galaxy smartphone, which can be a negative point for users who value this convenience.
Availability and pricing strategy on Brasil
The Galaxy Watch 8 was launched on the Brazilian market with pre-sales starting on July 9th and deliveries scheduled for August 8th, 2025. Official prices start at R$2,499 for the 40 mm version with Bluetooth, reaching R$2,999 for the 44 mm model with LTE connectivity.
In comparison, the Galaxy Watch 7, launched in 2024, can now be found at more affordable prices, with offers starting at R$1,376.55. The Essa price difference positions it as an attractive option for those looking for a complete smartwatch without needing to invest in the latest features of the Watch 8.
Return of the rotating crown on model Classic
In response to fan requests, Samsung has brought back the iconic physical spinning crown in the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic. The Este model is distinguished by its stainless steel construction, more resistant than aluminum, and its 64 GB internal storage, double the standard version. The rotating ring offers a tactile and precise way to navigate the interface, making it an important differentiator for those who prefer a more traditional user experience.
