Key Takeaways
1. Samsung will unveil the Galaxy Watch 8 collection alongside new foldable devices at the July Unpacked event.
2. The Galaxy Watch 8 lineup is rumored to reintroduce the Classic model, featuring a physical rotating bezel.
3. Both the standard and Classic versions of the Watch 8 are expected to have a new “squircle” design.
4. Recent leaks confirm the design changes, including three buttons and a speaker grill on the Watch 8 Classic.
5. The Watch 8 Classic will feature a new strap system, making older Galaxy Watch bands incompatible.
Samsung is set to officially unveil its next series of smartwatches in just a few weeks. The Galaxy Watch 8 collection is anticipated to launch alongside the company’s newest foldable devices during the July Unpacked event.
Smartwatch Strategy Overview
If you have been following Samsung, you know their approach to smartwatches has been quite consistent over the years. They typically release two models each generation, offering various sizes and both Bluetooth and LTE options. Usually, there is a standard version and a more premium Classic version featuring the popular rotating bezel. However, last year, Samsung skipped the Watch 7 Classic and instead introduced the more robust Watch Ultra.
Rumored Features of the Galaxy Watch 8
According to recent leaks, it seems Samsung may be reversing its course. The upcoming Galaxy Watch 8 lineup is rumored to reintroduce the Classic model, complete with the physical rotating bezel. This will supposedly be launched alongside the standard Watch 8.
So, what can we look forward to in this year’s smartwatches? Here’s a summary of what we know until now.
Design Changes Ahead
While there hasn’t been any official confirmation from Samsung yet, a steady flow of leaks and renders has provided a clear image of what’s on the way.
In terms of design, the Galaxy Watch 8 series is set for a significant update. Both the standard and Classic versions are expected to feature a “squircle” shape, similar to the rugged Galaxy Watch Ultra. This shift in design isn’t merely hearsay. Mentions of the new shape have appeared in Samsung’s One UI 8 firmware, and we’ve also seen detailed CAD renders of the Watch 8 Classic.
The Watch 8 Classic has recently appeared in some real-life photos, confirming its squircle design and the return of the physical rotating bezel. It includes three buttons on the right side and a speaker grill located on the left.
Strap System Update
There seems to be a modification in the strap system as well. From the leaked images, it appears that the Watch 8 Classic will not use the same strap connectors found in previous models. Consequently, older Galaxy Watch bands may not be compatible with the new design.