Join us in welcoming the newest addition to the realm of intelligent wearables — the Galaxy Watch Ultra, designed to be a companion not just in daily health maintenance but also in thrilling escapades. This cutting-edge device stands as the most robust smartwatch in the Galaxy Watch series unveiled by Samsung Electronics.

The introduction of the high-end Galaxy Watch Ultra and the Galaxy Watch7, equipped with advanced health tracking features, underscores Samsung Electronics’ dedication to presenting the myriad potentials that can be strapped to users’ wrists.

Engaged in dialogue with Scott Yu and Elin Park from the Wearable Product Planning Group within the Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics, Samsung Newsroom delves into the genesis of these groundbreaking products.

Creating a High-Performance AI Watch Crafted for Rigorous Activities

Q. How did the concept of the Galaxy Watch Ultra come about?

Yu: The Galaxy Watch Ultra emerges as a fresh, top-tier inclusion to our Galaxy Watch collection. Through extensive research, we pinpointed substantial growth opportunities in the premium sector and took our inaugural strides into this domain. By infusing durability and advanced AI capabilities, the Galaxy Watch Ultra was meticulously crafted to deliver unparalleled outdoor adventures.

Q. How did the development of features for outdoor sports differ from those for daily well-being?

Park: Our aim was to devise a solution catering to a broad spectrum of users, from leisurely individuals to fitness enthusiasts and professionals seeking performance enhancement. Initially focusing on prevalent activities like running, cycling, and swimming, we observed various scenarios to enrich the related attributes. Remarkably, we discovered that many individuals shuffle between two or three exercise types instead of adhering to a singular one. This discovery prompted the inception of Multi-sports tiles — enabling users to tailor their workout combinations and evaluate the outcomes of diverse activities, including duathlons and triathlons.

Q. How has Galaxy AI influenced the strategic planning of the Galaxy Watch series?

Yu: Contemplating the role wearables could play in delivering AI encounters within the Galaxy ecosystem, we collaborated with pertinent departments to amalgamate the functionalities of Galaxy smartphones and watches for maximal AI proficiency. For instance, functional threshold power (FTP) gauges users’ peak cycling power based on heart rate monitoring and AI-driven metrics to empower users to unleash their full potential. Additionally, the Galaxy Watch employs AI algorithms to continuously monitor sleep patterns and provide advanced sleep insights.

Park: Galaxy AI paves the way for myriad user possibilities. One feature of note is the Energy Score, present in both the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Watch7. Galaxy AI analyzes diverse health metrics, including sleep and activity data, and delivers scores reflecting overall energy levels to facilitate users in intuitively and accurately understanding their physical well-being.

Prioritizing Optimal Functionality and Convenience

Q. What posed the greatest challenge during the design phase of the new watches?

Park: For the first time, the Galaxy Watch Ultra incorporates a Quick Button — embodying meticulous deliberation on varied user scenarios and essential actions required for device operation. By swiftly engaging the button, users can access their frequently utilized functions. In critical situations, maintaining the button for five seconds triggers an Emergency Siren emitting sound up to 86 decibels, audible from distances of up to 180 meters away. Introducing this novel element necessitated sustained communication and collaboration among the mechanical, design, and hardware teams.

Q. Aside from the Quick Button, what design aspects were emphasized for the Galaxy Watch Ultra?

Yu: The Galaxy Watch Ultra showcases a novel cushion design reminiscent of the iconic circular aesthetics from the original Galaxy Watch series. Furthermore, the design integrates elements from traditional timepieces while furnishing robust shielding for peace of mind in any setting.

Park: To bolster comfort, the Galaxy Watch Ultra offers multiple watch bands. Employing a revamped, uncomplicated Dynamic Lug System, the bands can be effortlessly affixed and interchanged to suit various outdoor pursuits.

Charting the Future Landscape with the Galaxy Watch Series

Q. How would you summarize the new Galaxy Watches in one word or sentence?

Yu: Sincerity stood as our foremost consideration. We aimed to craft a smartwatch that forges a genuine connection with users. Conceptualizing and materializing a product mirrors orchestrating a symphonic performance — each contributor pours their heart and soul into the endeavor, even the unseen elements. The outcome is a remarkable achievement. I extend my gratitude to the development and design teams, as well as all hardworking individuals who helped realize these products.

Park: To me, it signifies a “turning point.” Both the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Watch7 represent a significant juncture in the trajectory of the Galaxy Watch saga. We have consistently refined the beloved Galaxy Watch with its contemporary and minimalist design. Now, we are venturing further by introducing a model with a distinct purpose — such as the Galaxy Watch Ultra. This marks a pivotal moment in our responsiveness to diverse markets.

Q. What lies ahead for the Galaxy Watch?

Yu: Our focus is inclined towards enhancing the AI functionalities. By intertwining a myriad of Galaxy AI features into the Galaxy Watch range, we endeavor to furnish an enriched digital health experience and personalized insights to users.

Park: There exists potential for advancement in the health solution sphere, prompting our step-by-step approach. We are engrossed in multiple innovations and continuous enhancements to existing models, aiming to ensure an optimal user journey. We are enthusiastic about sharing our anticipation for the future of the Galaxy Watch with our user community.

These latest Galaxy Watches have transcended boundaries with steadfast and genuine innovation. Samsung eagerly anticipates the evolution of the Galaxy Watch series — wearables destined to play pivotal roles across multiple facets of users’ lives.

¹ To measure personalized FTP, a Galaxy smartphone must be connected to a power meter. For accurate FTP calculation, sync the Galaxy Watch to a smartphone. FTP is automatically calculated during mid to high-intensity cycling for over 4 minutes with a cycling power meter attached. With machine learning, repeated cycling provides precise and personalized FTP values. Cycling power meter sold separately. Traditional FTP analysis duration averages up to 1 hour.
² Energy Score compatible with Android devices (Android 11 or above) and requires Samsung Health app (v6.27 or above). Samsung account login essential. Service availability varies by region. Energy Score retrieves health data synced from Samsung Galaxy Watch within the Samsung Health app. Requires previous day’s activity, sleep data, and heart rate info during sleep. Not intended for medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Find out more: Samsung Official Press Release