Samsung is considering the introduction of a subscription model for certain core features of its Galaxy Watch. In an interview with Samsung’s head of digital health, Dr. Hon Pak, the company mentioned to CNET that it is exploring a premium subscription model similar to Fitbit Premium and Garmin Connect Plus.
This subscription fee would likely be for advanced coaching features only. It is possible that access to these features could be free for newer devices like the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, while owners of older Galaxy Watch devices, including the current Samsung Galaxy Watch 7, may need to subscribe to access these features.
If Samsung decides to implement this subscription model, it would be a first for the company. Even with its health-focused Galaxy Ring wearable, Samsung did not introduce a subscription fee as many had anticipated.
Samsung’s new wearable OS, One UI 8 Watch, is set to introduce several new health and fitness-related metrics. One of these features is Vascular Load, which measures the strain on the heart and vascular system while the wearer is sleeping. Bedtime Guidance will provide personalized recommendations for optimal sleep and wake-up times based on a three-day observation of sleep patterns.
Another feature, Antioxidant Index, will allow the Galaxy Watch to measure carotenoid levels in the skin by placing a thumb on the back of the watch sensor for a few seconds. Users will receive a score and advice on habits to improve antioxidant levels. In the future, it may even recommend specific recipes or supplements.
While these new health features sound impressive, if they are hidden behind a paywall, they may not gain widespread adoption. Samsung is venturing into new territory with the introduction of a subscription model for its wearable devices, and it will be important for the company to approach this carefully.
Overall, the potential introduction of a subscription model for Galaxy Watch features represents a significant shift for Samsung. It remains to be seen how consumers will respond to this new approach and whether it will impact the popularity of Samsung’s wearable devices.
