Samsung makes a classic return with the launch of its latest smartwatches — the Galaxy Watch8 and Watch8 Classic. After the Galaxy Watch7 and Watch Ultra, this year’s lineup is all about nostalgia, powerful upgrades, and new-age AI. Here’s a comprehensive look at what the new Galaxy watches bring to the wrist.
Return of the Rotating Bezel
The star attraction is the rotating bezel’s comeback in the Galaxy Watch8 Classic. It’s more than a tactile, nostalgic feature — the bezel integrates deeply with the Wear OS-based OneUI 8 Watch interface for smooth UI navigation. The clicky feedback and satisfying rotation not only give control over menu and app navigation but also enhance the ‘classic’ smartwatch feel.
Design and Build
- Galaxy Watch8 Classic:
- Available in a single 46mm size
- Constructed from premium stainless steel, imparting a tough yet elegant look
- Covered with sapphire crystal glass for added durability
- Offered in two colors (featured: black)
- Equipped with a new, easy-attach silicon strap system (not compatible with older Ultra straps due to differing mechanisms)
- Galaxy Watch8:
- Sports a simpler, cleaner appearance
- Features a comfortable, plain silicone strap
- Compact and user-friendly design aimed at daily usability
- Both models are IP68 water and dust resistant, support 5 ATM water pressure, and have MIL-STD certification for toughness.
Display
- The Watch8 Classic features a 1.34-inch display, which is slightly smaller than previous classic models, but appears robust due to the prominent bezel and casing
- Brightness peaks at up to 3000 nits, ensuring clear visibility in bright sunlight
- Users can select customizable watch faces, including new options with dynamic night mode transitions
Performance and Software
Both smartwatches run on Wear OS (now VerOS), but with Samsung’s custom OneUI 8 Watch interface:
- Newly designed icons and an updated app drawer
- Speedy multitasking via improved navigation and the addition of a customizable quick button for workout or other shortcut tasks
- Tiles now offer multi-info displays, delivering key data at a glance with smoother, faster animations
- The addition of a “now bar” at the bottom improves access to apps and functions, similar to modern smartphone UX
Connectivity
- Both variants are available in Bluetooth and LTE options, letting users choose their preferred connectivity and price point
- The watches are compatible with all Android phones, not just Samsung devices, and offer select ecosystem features for Galaxy phone users
Gemini Live and AI Integration
Samsung introduces Gemini Live, a world-first integration enabled by Google’s AI:
- Available on Watch8 as the first “Gemini Live Smartwatch”
- Features will also reach some older Galaxy Watch models via updates
- Core features include AI-generated, “tailored” messages. Users can dictate a message with a chosen emotional tone (e.g., happy, sad, angry), and Gemini composes the text accordingly
- Voice commands such as “Hey Gemini, start plank exercise” activate Samsung Health workouts instantly
- Smart queries and commands (alarm setting, weather info, map directions, fitness guidance) are handled on-device
Fitness and Health Features
A big part of the Watch8 and Watch8 Classic experience is personal health coaching:
- “Running coach” (currently in beta) gives personalized, step-by-step running guidance, tracking distance, pace, and calories burnt
- Cross-app controls synchronize fitness goals and food tracking across Samsung Health, with AI-powered recommendations to optimize calorie burn and workouts
- The watch analyzes exercise, suggests tailored routines, and acts as a personal motivational coach for busy professionals or fitness enthusiasts
Battery Life and Performance
- The battery backup has been tested to ensure all-day usage, and early impressions indicate improvement over previous models. Exact longevity will depend on usage patterns and features enabled
- Fast charging and optimized consumption allow regular health tracking without constant recharging worries
Pricing and Availability
- Galaxy Watch8 Classic comes in 46mm with Bluetooth and LTE variants; pricing varies by model and finish
- Available in select colors (featured: black), with customizable straps sold separately
Final Thoughts
With its signature rotating bezel, premium materials, robust app ecosystem, powerful AI assist, and focused health features, the Galaxy Watch8 Classic truly merges tradition and innovation. Whether you’re after a nostalgic classic or a sleek modern companion, Samsung’s new smartwatches are geared to stand out in 2025.