Samsung is preparing a new series of smartwatches Galaxy Watch 8, which will apparently be a little bolder, squarer and – hopefully – longer-lasting - that is, a truly usable battery. And yes, the rotating bezel is back. Which is the only thing that makes watch lovers roll their eyes more often than their eyes at every mention of “the most revolutionary product yet”.
When Samsung announces its famous "Galaxy Unpacked" event, we can always count on two things: a flood of new phones that we'll forget about in six months, and some new smartwatch that will make us feel like our old watches suddenly look like exhibits in a tech museum. This time, the upcoming one is especially interesting Galaxy Watch 8, which might be slightly different from its predecessors.
Because if we probably agree, we've been used to relatively predictable circular shapes for several generations - almost as predictable as the lottery numbers you've been choosing since 1995. But this time Samsung has clearly heard our complaints and decided to spice things up a bit - if not in the specifications, then at least in the design.
Square, circle or squircle?
A whole bunch of official renders have surfaced online, first published by renowned leaker Evan Blass (evleaks). In terms of design, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 is taking a step in what fashion experts call a “squirkle” direction. Which is actually just a marketing way of describing a square with very rounded corners, so as not to scare off existing users of circular watches.
Apparently, the “Classic” version of the rotating bezel watch, which Samsung smartwatch fans appreciate more than Apple users appreciate their Lightning chargers, is also making a comeback. Renders show a more rugged version of the Watch 8 Classic, with a distinct look of a classic diver’s watch. If you happen to be planning to marry an Imperial stormtrooper from Star Wars, we have good news: there’s also a white version, perfect as a wedding gift.
Watch 8 Ultra: bigger, bolder... and finally more useful?
Online rumors also hint at the arrival of the Galaxy Watch 8 Ultra, which is said to be a larger and more powerful version of the standard models. It will come in a larger case with an even more distinctive design, probably aimed primarily at sports enthusiasts and anyone who wants to show the world that they are truly “ultra”. Even if this means charging the watch every night or having to hand it to a companion for intermediate charging during an ultramarathon (hello, Apple Watch Ultra!).
The new Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Ultra also promises an improved display, and reportedly even with slightly lower power consumption. Which brings us to the next question: What about the battery?
We're still waiting for the battery revolution...
Despite all the improvements, one perennial criticism of almost all smartwatches – including Samsung’s – remains battery life. Rumors (and some optimistic hopes) suggest improvements in energy efficiency, but let’s be honest: isn’t it high time a watch with the “Ultra” name could last at least a few days without a charger? It would be interesting to see Samsung opt for an improvement that is truly revolutionary for once. But for now, let’s be content with the fact that the new watch has rounded corners and a rotating bezel that will keep us entertained during long meetings.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Golf Edition: for all golfers and anyone who wants to become one
Samsung is also preparing a special version for golf enthusiasts. While most of us have no idea what a “bogey” is and think “hole-in-one” is the new flavor of donuts, we have to agree: the Galaxy Watch 8 Golf Edition looks absolutely stylish. For the first time in your life, you might think that golf isn’t such a bad sport, even though you usually think of it as a walk between holes for wealthy retirees.
What the "Internet Street" Says About the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 News
Rumor checking with established tech portals (GSMArena, The Verge, SamMobile) confirms the basic claims from the original podcast. The Classic model will definitely have a rotating bezel, while the Watch 8 Ultra promises a more robust and larger design and some sports-oriented upgrades (sensors, improved running and fitness analysis).
👀 Galaxy Watch 8 Classic pic.twitter.com/HSKykBogA2
— NingSP (@mrsevensp) June 23, 2025
There's also been a lot of talk about a move to the next-generation Snapdragon Wear chipset, which will allow for smoother performance and longer battery life. And of course, improved durability and resistance to dust and water. But speaking of which - when was the last time anyone heard of someone actually destroying a smartwatch with dust?
Conclusion: so what to expect?
Although the details will only be clear at the upcoming Samsung Unpacked event, we can conclude the following: the Galaxy Watch 8 tries to be different enough not to get bored, but similar enough not to completely lose orientation. And while the revolution is unlikely to happen this year (batteries will probably only last a day again), we can at least look forward to some aesthetic innovations that will make our wrists look more modern, at least visually.
Because, after all, if we can't have a smartwatch that doesn't need to be charged every day, we at least deserve a watch that looks smart enough that our friends won't constantly tease us with "Did you have to charge that again today?".
