Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 & Watch 9: In summary
- Samsung plans to introduce three new flagship smartwatches in 2026
- Expected to be unveiled at the Unpacked event in July
- The Classic model might make an appearance without its usual gap year
- Anticipated significant battery enhancements for all models
- Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is likely to include 5G support
Samsung is gearing up to reveal its next generation of Galaxy Watches at the anticipated Samsung Unpacked event, projected for July 2026.
The company is set to introduce the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 alongside the Galaxy Watch 9. Interestingly, the Galaxy Watch 9 Classic is also expected to join the lineup, breaking its usual pattern of release every other year.
With the launch of these three watches, alongside anticipated tech like the iPhone Ultra-rivaling Galaxy Z Fold Wide, Samsung enthusiasts have much to look forward to. Despite recent price reductions, the current Galaxy Watch 8 remains one of the top smartwatch choices in 2026, so these new models will need to offer compelling upgrades.
While we advise delaying any purchasing decisions until these watches are thoroughly tested, staying updated on potential new features can help you make an informed choice once Samsung officially unveils them.
We’ve compiled the most intriguing rumors and leaks regarding the new Galaxy Watches, coupled with expert analysis ahead of the launch.
When will the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 & Watch 9 be released?
In summary
- Expected unveiling during Samsung Unpacked on 22 July
- The date awaits official confirmation
- General release anticipated in early August
While official confirmation of the event is pending, indications suggest a Samsung Unpacked event on 22 July in London. This date is also expected to mark the official unveiling of the Galaxy Z Fold/Flip phones.
Typically, Samsung Galaxy Watches become available for purchase a few weeks post-announcement, suggesting a general release in early August.
Last year, the Galaxy Watch 8 was announced on 9 July and became available for purchase shortly thereafter, on 25 July.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
How much will the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 & Watch 9 cost?
In summary
- Prices are expected to rise
- The Galaxy Watch 9 might narrowly avoid a price hike
The upcoming Samsung Unpacked event leaves many speculating about the pricing strategy for the new in-house wearables.
Considering the broader tech industry’s pricing trends and recent price hikes for the new Samsung Galaxy S26 phones and other Samsung devices, it seems likely that the new smartwatches will also see increased prices. How 2026.
The Galaxy Watch 9 might not see a price increase since its predecessor already experienced one, rising from £289/$299.99 to £319/$349.99. This price point remains crucial, maintaining a competitive edge over the more costly Pixel Watch 4.
What specs and features will the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 & Watch 9 have?
In summary
- The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 may feature a 30% larger battery
- Emphasis on AI-driven health tracking is anticipated
- 5G support expected for the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2
An eye for battery life
Last year’s Galaxy Watch 8, despite its attractive design and user-friendly software, struggled with battery life, often requiring a daily charge. This issue is expected to be addressed in 2026.
A leak suggests that the 40mm Galaxy Watch 9 will have a 382mAh battery, marketed as 400mAh, a 23% increase from the Galaxy Watch 8’s battery. This could potentially allow the Watch 9 to last two days, positioning it as a competitor to the Apple Watch Series 11. The 44mm model is rumored to have a 435mAh battery.
The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is rumored to have a significant battery boost, with a 30% increase to a typical capacity of 800mAh, potentially allowing for multiple days of use without a charge.
Mattias Inghe
New chipsets
Samsung has a history of alternating between Qualcomm and Exynos chipsets for its devices. However, Galaxy Watches have consistently used Exynos, which might change.
The Galaxy Watch 9 might feature the new Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset, which promises a 5x performance boost over the Snapdragon W5+ Gen 2.
Samsung might continue its mobile strategy by reserving the Snapdragon chip for the premium Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, similar to its approach with Galaxy Ultra phones. The brand’s increased focus on AI-driven health tracking with recent Samsung Health updates could benefit from the enhanced performance.
Samsung
5G support on the Watch Ultra 2
In addition to a larger battery, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is expected to feature 5G connectivity, enhancing its functionality as a standalone cellular device.
Unlike the Apple Watch Ultra 3, which also gained 5G capability, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 might be offered in both 5G and 4G versions.
This is the current information available about the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Watches in 2026. Stay tuned for updates as more details become available.
