Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked 2025 event showcased an array of groundbreaking tech, but the highlight for many was the new Galaxy Watch 8 series. 
The smartwatches bring fresh design changes and upgrades that could make or break the device for fans.
Gone is the classic round look that many were accustomed to. In its place is a unique ‘squircle’ design-a blend of square and circle-that has sparked mixed feelings. Some love the bold shift, while others miss the traditional aesthetic that made previous models so popular. Alongside this visual change, the internal structure has been revamped to make the base model significantly slimmer. Samsung has also implemented a new Dynamic Lug system for a more comfortable and ergonomic fit, first introduced with the Watch Ultra last year.
The Galaxy Watch 8 and Watch 8 Classic come with a sapphire crystal display, enhancing the overall screen experience. Both models are powered by the Exynos W1000 processor and offer 2GB of RAM, ensuring smoother performance. While the hardware is solid, the storage options differ, with the Classic boasting 64GB of internal storage, giving users more space for apps and content.
Battery life is a slight letdown compared to the Ultra model, with the Watch 8 Classic featuring a 445mAh battery and the Watch 8 offering a 435mAh one. For extended use, especially for those who travel or hike frequently, the Galaxy Watch Ultra with its larger battery is the better option.
Health and fitness tracking have also seen improvements. The GPS sensors are now more accurate, and features like Running Coach have been added to help track routes more precisely. The sleep tracking feature has been upgraded with stress level monitoring and bedtime guidance to improve sleep quality. Additionally, the Antioxidant Index helps users monitor how well their bodies manage stress.
The Galaxy Watch 8 series is the first to run on Wear OS 6, with Gemini running on the One UI Watch 8 update. The Watch 8 is available in Silver and Graphite colors and two sizes: 40mm and 44mm. The Watch 8 Classic comes in Black and White with a 46mm size. The Watch 8 is priced at $349, while the Classic starts at $499. The Ultra model, available in Titanium Blue, costs $649. All models are now available for pre-order on Samsung’s official website.