Galaxy Watch 8 Rumours: What to Expect From Samsung’s Newest Smartwatch
Image from an eBay seller selling a Galaxy Watch 8 Classic they got their hands on.
Samsung’s next generation of smartwatches is shaping up to be a significant leap forward, and if the latest leaks are anything to go by, the Galaxy Watch 8 series might just redefine what we expect from wearables in 2025. With rumours pointing to three new models—the Galaxy Watch 8, Watch 8 Classic, and a new Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025). Samsung is clearly aiming to offer something for every kind of user.
Whether you’re upgrading from an older Galaxy Watch or considering your first entry into Samsung’s wearable ecosystem, here’s a detailed breakdown of everything we know so far, from specs and features to expected pricing and launch dates.
Three Models, Three Distinct Experiences
The Galaxy Watch 8 series will reportedly include:
- Galaxy Watch 8 (Standard Model)
- Galaxy Watch 8 Classic (Premium Design)
- Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) (Top-Tier Model)
This strategy mimics Apple’s approach with the Apple Watch SE, Series, and Ultra, giving consumers a tiered choice depending on budget and needs.
Key Hardware Upgrades Across the Board
One of the most talked-about upgrades is the Exynos W1000 processor, a new 3nm, 5-core chip that is said to be used across all three models. This could mean smoother performance, better power efficiency, and faster response times for apps and fitness tracking.
Additionally, the Watch 8 Classic and Watch Ultra are expected to double the storage to 64GB, up from 32GB on the standard Watch 8.
Galaxy Watch 8 vs. 8 Classic vs. Ultra: Rumoured Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Galaxy Watch 8 | Galaxy Watch 8 Classic | Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sizes Available | 40mm / 44mm | 46mm | 47mm |
| Build Materials | Aluminium Armor / Sapphire Glass | Stainless Steel / Sapphire Glass | Titanium / Sapphire Glass |
| Display | 1.34" / 1.47", 327ppi, Super AMOLED, 3000 nits | 1.34", 327ppi, Super AMOLED, 3000 nits | 1.47", 327ppi, Super AMOLED, 3000 nits |
| Battery Capacity | 325mAh (40mm) / 435mAh (44mm) | 445mAh | 590mAh |
| Storage / RAM | 32GB / 2GB RAM | 64GB / 2GB RAM | 64GB / 2GB RAM |
| Chipset | Exynos W1000 (3nm) | Exynos W1000 (3nm) | Exynos W1000 (3nm) |
| OS | One UI 8.0 (Watch) | One UI 8.0 (Watch) | One UI 8.0 (Watch) |
| Included Strap | Silicone Sports Strap (S/M) | Premium Hybrid Strap (S/M/L) | Extreme Sport Strap (S/M/L) |
| LTE Variants | Yes (Optional) | Yes (Not on all variants) | Yes (Standard) |
| Sensors | ECG, PPG, BIA, Accelerometer, Altimeter, Gyroscope, Light, Geomagnetic | ||
Design & Durability: Built for Every Lifestyle
Samsung appears to be doubling down on durability and design in this series.
- Galaxy Watch 8 is lightweight with an aluminium armor frame, perfect for daily use and fitness tracking.
- Watch 8 Classic adds elegance with a stainless steel body and a hybrid strap, expected to be a leather-silicone combo.
- Watch Ultra (2025) is adventure-ready, featuring a titanium build and a rugged Extreme Sport strap.
Pricing: A Notable Hike for Most Models
According to reports from Dealabs, European pricing may reflect a ~20% increase over the previous generation. Expect similar pricing adjustments in Australia.
-
Galaxy Watch 8:
40mm – €379.99 (Bluetooth) / €429.99 (4G)
44mm – €409.99 (Bluetooth) / €459.99 (4G) -
Galaxy Watch 8 Classic:
€529.99 (Bluetooth) / €579.99 (4G) -
Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025):
€699.99 (LTE only)
In Australia, this may translate to $549–$999 AUD depending on the model and connectivity option.
Release Date: When Will the Galaxy Watch 8 Launch?
The next Samsung Unpacked event is expected on July 9 (AU), with shipping likely to begin around July 23. Pre-order reservations are already live on Samsung’s website in many regions, including Australia.
Should You Wait for the Galaxy Watch 8?
With a new chipset, better storage, and premium build materials, the Watch 8 lineup is shaping up to be a worthwhile upgrade.
- Casual users: Galaxy Watch 8 offers strong fitness tracking and smooth performance in a lightweight design.
- Style-conscious buyers: Watch 8 Classic delivers elegance and improved materials.
- Outdoor athletes: Watch Ultra provides durability, battery life, and all the top sensors.
Strap Compatibility: Will Your Old Bands Work?
Another useful rumour worth noting is that all three models are expected to retain Samsung’s proprietary band connection system introduced in previous Ultra models. This means users upgrading from the Galaxy Watch Ultra would be able to use the same straps as before. Although to be clear, the Galaxy Watch 8 and Galaxy Watch 8 Classic will use a different size connector compared to the Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025).
Samsung also appears to be shipping the new watches with upgraded straps tailored to their style: a sporty silicone for the standard model, a hybrid leather-silicone strap for the Classic, and a rugged Extreme Sport strap for the Ultra. But the ability to swap in your favourite third-party band or reuse your existing one is great news for long-time Galaxy Watch fans.
Final Thoughts
The Galaxy Watch 8 series might be Samsung’s most refined wearable line yet. With tiered options, cutting-edge internals, and broader appeal, it’s worth watching closely during the upcoming Unpacked event.
We’ll have more updates and comparisons as soon as the watches are officially unveiled in Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked Event happening in July 9, 2025!
And if you're looking to buy a new band for your Galaxy Watch 8 ahead of time, keep an eye out as we get our Galaxy Watch 8 bands ready :)
Tags: Galaxy Watch 8, Galaxy Watch 8 rumours, Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025, Samsung smartwatch 2025, Galaxy Watch 8 specs, Galaxy Watch 8 price Australia, Galaxy Watch band compatibility