Speculating on the Future: What to Expect from the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9
The tech world is already buzzing about what Samsung might have in store for its next generation of smartwatches. Following the launch of the Galaxy Watch 8 series, all eyes are on whether Samsung will continue down the path of its “Cushion Design” or revert to the more traditional circular aesthetic. Given the lead time involved in product development, a radical departure from the current design language seems unlikely for the Galaxy Watch 9. So, assuming the squircle shape is here to stay, what improvements and additions can we anticipate?
Let’s delve into the potential models, specifications, and features that could define the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 9: Model Line-up
This year, Samsung offered a diverse range of options, including the standard Galaxy Watch 8, the Watch 8 Classic, and the high-end Watch Ultra (2025). Considering Samsung’s historical pattern of releasing Classic models in alternate years, it’s reasonable to predict that next year will see the launch of a Galaxy Watch 9 alongside a Watch Ultra (2026).
Many still admire the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro from 2022. The introduction of three models per year opens up the possibility of a Pro model revival, perhaps one that’s lighter and boasts a longer battery life than both the Classic and Ultra variants. However, with the Ultra model’s emphasis on titanium construction and extended battery life, a Watch 9 Pro with similar features might cannibalise its sales.
Another plausible scenario is the introduction of a more budget-friendly Galaxy Watch FE 2. Drawing parallels with Apple’s SE releases, which typically occur every two to three years, and considering the initial Watch FE debuted in 2024, Samsung might follow suit in 2026.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 9: Predicted Specifications and Features
Samsung rarely removes established features, so we can confidently expect the Galaxy Watch 9 to be available in two sizes, each with an aluminium case offering 5ATM water resistance and MIL-STD-810H protection.
The last two Galaxy Watch generations have utilised the 3nm Exynos W1000 chip paired with 2GB of RAM. Traditionally, Samsung hasn’t used the same chip for more than two generations of Galaxy Watches (excluding those running the older Tizen OS). This raises the possibility of a new, faster 3nm chip, or at least a revamped co-processor designed to handle background tasks and artificial intelligence more efficiently.
Future Galaxy Watches will inevitably move beyond Bluetooth 5.3 and WiFi 5GHz to embrace 6.0 and 6GHz technologies. The Watch 9 could also incorporate ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, similar to what’s found in the Pixel Watch 3. This would enable features like digital car keys, paired watch/phone unlocking, and enhanced “Find My” capabilities. However, it remains speculative whether these features will be implemented in the Watch 9 or a later iteration.
Given Google’s ongoing efforts to improve Wear OS battery efficiency, Samsung might not feel compelled to significantly increase the Watch 9’s battery capacity beyond the Watch 8’s 325/435mAh. A similar 40-hour battery life estimate is likely.
The same principle applies to the 10W WPC fast charging that has been used in the last three Galaxy Watch generations. Rapid charging can negatively impact battery longevity, so Samsung might allow competitors to surpass the Galaxy Watch 9 in charging speed. Ideally, Samsung would adopt Qi2 charging for the Watch 9.
Finally, it’s expected that Samsung will retain the BioActive sensor, which enables all the existing health tracking functionalities like Antioxidant Index, Running Coach, Vascular Load, and AGEs Index. While improvements with new LEDs are possible, as seen with the Watch 7, the core sensor technology is likely to remain unchanged.
Desired Features and Expectations for the Galaxy Watch 9
The Galaxy Watch 8 clearly prioritised maintaining the existing hardware framework while introducing a slimmer, squircle “Cushion Design” and a suite of new Galaxy AI-powered health tools. The Galaxy Watch 9 is likely to continue along this trajectory.
Samsung has hinted at a potential Samsung Health subscription model, and the disclaimers associated with its Galaxy AI tools suggest that they will be free until 2026. Consequently, it’s probable that the Galaxy Watch 9 will offer even more health and fitness features to justify a subscription fee.
While the prospect of paying a monthly fee for health tools isn’t necessarily appealing, it seems like a distinct possibility. Therefore, let’s focus on the features that are genuinely desired for the Galaxy Watch 9.
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Enhanced Battery Life:
Samsung is reportedly developing denser all-solid-state batteries, often referred to as “Dream Batteries.” These batteries are intended for use in Galaxy Buds, the Galaxy Ring 2, and future Galaxy Watches.
Ideally, this technology would be incorporated into the Galaxy Watch 9. However, reports suggest that these advanced batteries might not be ready until the Galaxy Watch 10 in 2027. They could also be more expensive than conventional lithium-ion batteries, which could lead to a price increase for the Watch 9.
In the meantime, we can only hope that improvements in Wear OS 7, a more efficient co-processor, or a slightly larger battery capacity will contribute to a longer battery life for the Watch 9. While it might not match the battery performance, achieving around 50 hours per charge instead of 40 would be a significant improvement.
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Wider Watch Straps:
While many Galaxy Watch enthusiasts would prefer a return to a circular design, it’s unlikely that Samsung will abandon its squircle aesthetic anytime soon. Therefore, another request is for thicker watch straps. The current straps appear too narrow in relation to the thick squircle case, accentuating its size.
The Galaxy Watch Ultra features wider straps that are proportionally more appropriate for its size. It’s uncertain whether the current Dynamic Lug system can accommodate wider straps, but hopefully, Samsung can address this by the launch of the Galaxy Watch 9.
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New Gemini AI Integration:
This request is tied to Google’s Wear OS 7 plans as much as it is to Samsung. Now that Gemini on Wear OS has been launched, it’s hoped that the AI will continue to evolve, integrating more seamlessly with Google and Samsung applications and enhancing its overall intelligence.
Any enhancements to the Exynos processor should translate to faster and more intelligent AI responses. Furthermore, closer integration between Gemini and Samsung Health would enable more personalised coaching based on individual data.
The introduction of Gemini Live on Wear OS watches would facilitate more in-depth conversations. Additionally, an AI tool that allows users to log nutrition by simply taking a photo of a plate would be a valuable addition.
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Advanced Samsung Health Data and Coaching:
If Samsung intends to charge for access to comprehensive health assessments, it needs to provide genuine value. A Health Coach AI is anticipated, but it must be highly accurate and tailored to individual data, rather than a generic chatbot.
Samsung has been actively researching non-invasive blood glucose monitoring, which would align with its existing health assessment capabilities, assuming it’s sufficiently accurate and reliable.
Samsung has consistently surprised users with innovative features like the antioxidant index. It’s hoped that Samsung has more groundbreaking health insights that its multi-coloured LED sensors can uncover.
