The Samsung took another concrete step in the development of the Galaxy Watch 9. A firmware file associated with the SM-L345U model appeared on the Estados Unidos test server. Essa detection indicates that the smartwatch has left the development phase and entered the software testing stage, which accelerates the path to the launch scheduled for summer 2026.
The watch must maintain the 40 mm and 44 mm size options, the same as the Galaxy Watch 8. The larger 44 mm version must have a battery with a nominal capacity of 435 mAh. Essa specification suggests a small gain over its predecessor, whose typical capacity was also around this value, but could result in better autonomy thanks to future optimizations.
- The firmware was identified by leakers on an internal Samsung server.
- The SM-L345U model had previously been linked to the Galaxy Watch 9.
- The absence of firmware for the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 indicates that the initial focus is on the standard model.
Development progress follows expected schedule
The appearance of the firmware on the test server confirms that the Samsung has completed the main hardware stage and is now refining the software. Essa transition usually takes place a few months before the official announcement, which reinforces expectations of a launch in July 2026, along with the next foldables Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8.
The expected processor for the Galaxy Watch 9 includes the Snapdragon Wear Elite platform from the Qualcomm. Essa choice represents an important change, as it allows for greater energy efficiency and more advanced processing of artificial intelligence resources applied to health monitoring. The integration should improve tasks such as analyzing biometric data in real time without compromising battery life.
The 435 mAh battery in the 44 mm version maintains the known standard, but experts point out that the new chipset can deliver practical gains in duration. Otimizações of software and intelligent power management complement this aspect, even without a significant increase in the physical capacity of the component.
Design details and sizes repeat previous strategy
The Samsung chose to maintain the 40 mm and 44 mm sizes for the Galaxy Watch 9. The Essa decision allows compatibility with bracelets and accessories already on the market, facilitating the transition for users migrating from the previous model.
The design should follow the refined line introduced in the Galaxy Watch 8, with aluminum materials and Wi-Fi and LTE connectivity options. BioActive sensors remain at the core of the features, focusing on accurate monitoring of heart rate, sleep and other indicators of well-being.
Maintaining known sizes also helps control production costs. At the same time, it allows the company to focus efforts on internal improvements, such as the chipset and software optimizations, rather than radical redesigns of the device’s exterior.
Health features gain potential with new chipset
The Snapdragon Wear Elite promises greater efficiency in processing health-related tasks. The platform should enable faster and more accurate analysis of data collected by sensors, including advanced well-being metrics that rely on artificial intelligence.
Users can expect refinements to already present functions, such as sleep, stress and physical activity tracking. The combination of more efficient hardware and optimized software tends to reduce energy consumption during continuous use of these resources.
Samsung’s focus on integration between the watch and the Galaxy ecosystem should continue. Isso includes fluid synchronization with the brand’s smartphones and updates that expand capabilities over the time the device is used.
Battery maintains capacity but can deliver better performance
The nominal capacity of 435 mAh in the 44 mm version of the Galaxy Watch 9 repeats the value recorded in the predecessor. However, the new Qualcomm processor should contribute to more intelligent energy management, which could translate into greater real autonomy during everyday life.
Previous testing with past generations has shown that software optimizations often compensate for limitations in battery capacity. Samsung should apply lessons learned to balance performance and load duration in Galaxy Watch 9.
This approach allows the watch to continue offering the full smartwatch experience without requiring multiple recharges throughout the day for most users. The expectation is that the model will deliver at least the same level of practical use as the Galaxy Watch 8, with a possible marginal gain.
Launch should take place alongside other launches of the brand
Samsung usually presents new smartwatches at the Unpacked summer event, alongside foldables. Galaxy Watch 9 is set to follow this tradition in July 2026, sharing the stage with Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8.
This co-launch strategy maximizes media and consumer attention. Ela also facilitates integration across devices from day one with unified updates to the Wear OS ecosystem.
Early firmware detection suggests the company is maintaining its internal schedule without significant delays. Isso reinforces the perception that the development of Galaxy Watch 9 follows a solid and predictable path.
The Galaxy Watch 9 represents an incremental evolution with a focus on efficiency and integration of the latest technologies. Samsung advances software testing while laying the groundwork for official mid-year announcement.