Samsung is expected to launch the Galaxy Watch 9 and the flagship Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 at its upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event in July 2026. According to tech leaker “Galaxy Techie” via 9to5Google, the new lineup will likely feature a black, silver, and beige color palette while omitting a “Classic” model with a physical rotating bezel. These updates follow a challenging first quarter for Samsung, which saw a 28% year-over-year decline in smartwatch shipments.
What design changes are expected for the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2?
The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 will shift toward a more “boxy” aesthetic compared to its predecessor. Reporting for 9to5Google on June 20, 2026, Ben Schoon noted that the upcoming flagship will feature thinner bezels and a refined side button design. While the original Ultra combined a circular display with a square titanium frame, the 2026 model intends to emphasize its rugged, rectangular architecture. The side button, previously marked by a solid orange finish, will now feature an orange outline, a change that may improve visual clarity or differentiate the device from the Apple Watch Ultra’s signature Action Button.
How will software updates impact the user experience?
Leaked renders from Galaxy Techie indicate that Samsung is preparing a significant overhaul of its software interface. The redesign centers on the Samsung Health application, which will integrate more deeply with the company’s new AI-driven health tracking features. These updates include a refreshed watch face picker and a modernized compass interface for the Ultra 2. Because these images are pulled from software code rather than final production units, the UI layout may still undergo refinement before the official release.
Why is the July Unpacked event a turning point for Samsung?
Samsung faces a difficult competitive landscape in 2026. Data from the first quarter of the year shows a 28% drop in Galaxy Watch shipments, a sharp contrast to the broader market where Apple maintained a 23% global market share. With competitors like Huawei and Xiaomi expanding their presence in the Chinese market, Samsung’s decision to move away from the “Classic” model represents a strategic gamble. By focusing on AI health integration and a distinct “Ultra” design language, the company is betting that software innovation can compensate for the removal of the physical rotating bezel that long defined its premium wearables.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will the Galaxy Watch 9 feature a rotating bezel? No. According to leaks from Galaxy Techie, Samsung does not plan to release a “Classic” model in 2026, meaning the rotating bezel is unlikely to return this year.
- What are the new color options? The upcoming watches are expected to be available in black, silver, and beige.
- How long will the battery last on the Ultra 2? While official specs are pending, previous reports suggest a 784mAh battery—a 35% increase over the previous generation—which could enable over three days of usage when paired with the Snapdragon Wear Elite chip.
Are you planning to upgrade to the next generation of Galaxy Watch, or are you holding onto your current model for the rotating bezel? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on the July Unpacked event.
