Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 runs on One UI 8 Watch, which is based on Wear OS 6. The new software brings small but useful changes like grouped notifications and the Now Bar, which lets you jump back into an activity or media session quickly.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 is available in two sizes — 40mm and 44mm. It’s thinner than before, measuring about 11% less in thickness compared to the Galaxy Watch 7. Samsung has also made the display 50% brighter. The overall design appears to be quite clean and minimal, built to sit flush under a sleeve.

What sets the Watch 8 apart is the exclusive AI integration. Google Gemini is built-in for voice commands, but there’s more. You’re getting features like antioxidant detection, AI sleep coaching, real-time running assessments, and stress tracking during sleep. These AI tools are only available on the Watch 8 lineup and the Watch Ultra — older Galaxy watches won’t get them, even with updates.

Samsung is pushing health features further this year. The Samsung Watch 8 can estimate your antioxidant levels using a finger sensor — something that usually requires lab testing. It also tracks vascular load while you sleep, meaning it will give you insights on stress and recovery after a few nights of use.

Sleep tracking is more adaptive now, such that ideal sleep and wake times will be based on your habits. For runners, the watch provides a 12-minute assessment to rank your fitness level and then builds a custom training plan with coaching support during runs.

Battery life has been slightly improved with an 8% bump in capacity. One should expect around 30 hours with the always-on display and up to 40 hours without it. LTE variants are also available, which cost extra.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Features

• Ultra-bright 3,000-nit Super AMOLED + sapphire crystal – ensures excellent outdoor visibility and scratch resistance
• “Cushion” or “squircle” design with Dynamic Lug system – thinner (≈8.6 mm), light, and nestles comfortably for more accurate sensor readings
• Exynos W1000 3 nm chip (5-core), 2 GB+32 GB – delivers faster performance and smoother multitasking on Wear OS 6 / One UI 8
• First Android watch with built-in Google Gemini AI – lets you use natural voice commands (even standalone on Wi‑Fi/LTE) to start workouts, send messages, check schedules
• Antioxidant Index sensor – measures carotenoid levels via thumb‑press in just 5 seconds for dietary insight
• Vascular Load tracking – monitors cardiovascular strain during sleep for holistic wellness
• Bedtime Guidance & sleep apnea detection – analyzes sleep patterns to recommend ideal bedtimes and, in some regions, detects sleep apnea
• Running Coach with real-time AI feedback – adapts programs based on a Cooper‑style test and gives live pacing/form tips
• AI‑based Energy Score + High Stress Alert + Mindfulness tools – daily energy scoring with stress detection and breathing reminders
• Dual-frequency GPS (L1+L5) – offers more precise tracking for outdoor activities