The Pixel Watch 2 for Android users is the primary competitor of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6, which debuted in 2023 with excellent specifications and features. By 2025, both of these smartwatches – made by Samsung and Google, respectively—remain viable choices for users in those ecosystems. If you’re searching for a good price on a reliable wristwatch and you use Samsung or Android, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is now only $180.99 (was $449.99) thanks to an almost 60% reduction from Best Buy. For comparison, the current price of this model on Amazon is $329.99.
The 1.3-inch, 2,000-nit brilliant AMOLED screen of the Watch 6 features a digital bezel that allows for fast menu navigation. Best Buy also offers the larger 47mm screen with LTE for $240.99 (was $479.99) if that’s what you’re looking for.
All of the newest Wear OS features are available to you if you have an Android smartwatch. The Watch 6 has a number of unique functions, such as a temperature sensor, heart rate monitor, blood oxygen monitor, GPS tracking, and an accelerometer for measuring speed. Whether or whether your Android phone is within Bluetooth range, the Galaxy Watch 6 also lets you make and receive calls from it.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Galaxy Watch6 Classic features a timeless, iconic look and a bezel that just clicks with your style; It not only looks great, but it also rotates to give you easy access to all your apps
The Galaxy Watch 6 is “outstanding,” according to PCMag, which also named it the top 2023 wristwatch that works with Android. Yes, that was nearly two years ago, but for the price, Samsung customers still have a good choice. The main drawback will be the battery’s short lifespan of 22 hours, depending on usage.
The Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is a cost-effective way to monitor your body composition, calendar, daily activities, heart rate, sleep, stress, weather, and exercises. Even though it was only released this month, the Galaxy Watch 8 is also on sale right now if you want the newest model.
One of the main features that sets Samsung’s Galaxy phones and tablets apart is its One UI. Now that One UI 7 is available to customers, focus is turning to OneUI 8, the upcoming chapter. Exciting new features will be available for Samsung handsets with the next software update, which is based on Android 16.
The release date, the beta testing program, which devices will receive OneUI 8 in accordance with Samsung’s update policy, and the implications for Galaxy users will all be covered in this article.
OneUI 8 Release Date
Samsung’s major One UI releases have historically coincided with the yearly cycle of Android updates, usually occurring in the fourth quarter, around October or November, after Google’s stable Android release. One UI 6, for example, made its debut on October 30, 2023, and One UI 7, which was much later, appeared on April 7, 2025. But OneUI 8 is totally deviating from this trend.
At Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event on July 9, 2025, the Android 16-based One UI 8 was formally unveiled. Arriving in July, months ahead of Samsung’s customary fall upgrade timetable, the company successfully met its ambitious summer 2025 stable release timeline.
According to Samsung, the update will be progressively made available to additional Galaxy devices that are compatible, guaranteeing a wider distribution within its ecosystem.
In mid-August 2025, the Galaxy S25 series has the best probability of receiving the stable One UI 8 update for current devices. With a staggered deployment to guarantee stability, the update for additional devices, like as the Galaxy S24, S23, and previous foldables, is probably going to begin in late August 2025.
Samsung OneUI 8 Beta Program
Beginning with the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra in Germany, Korea, the UK, and the US, Samsung formally began the OneUI 8 beta program on May 28, 2025. India and Poland are now part of the Beta program.
Through the Samsung Members app, users of the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra can apply to install the One UI 8 beta by following the revised sign-up procedure that Samsung has announced. With Beta 1 launching on May 28, Beta 2 on June 12, and Beta 3 on June 30, 2025, Samsung launched the beta program without making any significant formal announcements.
As is customary for Samsung, the beta program began with flagship devices. Samsung has expanded the One UI 8 Beta 3 program to include the Galaxy Watch 7 and Ultra after successfully launching it for the Galaxy S25 series. According to the Samsung Korea Moderator, the fourth beta build has been confirmed and will be available next week.
OneUI 8 Eligible Devices
We can use Samsung’s official software update policy to determine which devices are assured of receiving the upgrade, even though the company hasn’t formally confirmed the OneUI 8 device list. Along with five years of security updates for certain models, Samsung now provides up to seven years of operating system upgrades for some flagship handsets (beginning with the Galaxy S24 series) and four years for others. The following devices are unquestionably qualified for OneUI 8 based on this guideline and the verified OneUI 7 rollout:
The four-year policy may also apply to mid-range devices such as the Galaxy A55 and A35. The Galaxy S21 series and other older devices might not be able to use OneUI 8 since their four-year support might expire before it does.
OneUI 8’s release coincided perfectly with the July 9, 2025, release of Samsung’s new foldables, the Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip7, and Z Flip7 FE. OneUI 8, based on Android 16, comes preinstalled on these devices. Samsung made a big shift with this, releasing a big update far earlier than many had anticipated.
The OneUI 8 Watch upgrade, which was unveiled alongside the Galaxy Watch 8 and Watch Ultra (2025), represents a significant feature advancement for the Galaxy Watch. Samsung surprised us by releasing the major Wear OS 6-based software, with the original Watch Ultra getting first dibs, even though it was anticipated that it would arrive later for earlier Watch models.
It was first believed that the new Galaxy Watch 8 would have a brief exclusivity period with the new operating system, so the release of OneUI 8 Watch is rather unexpected. Samsung has now formally said that the OneUI 8 Watch would be released before the Galaxy Watch Ultra from last year.
Numerous users – including those with carrier-tied and unlocked models – confirmed receiving the update. With a size of roughly 1.9 GB, the OTA update is quite large, however it may differ depending on the watch model. A patch will be sent to beta participants at the same time to move them to the stable version.
Regarding the changes and new features, OneUI 8 Watch seems to be a noteworthy turning point. As part of Samsung Health, it does offer a new generation of wellness and health tracking tools.
New smart features and customizations
The Now Bar from OneUI 8 is one of the many UI improvements and refinements that OneUI 8 Watch offers in addition to the new tracking tools. It functions with the majority of first-party apps and workouts and shows the current tasks as a widget at the bottom of the watch face.
Additionally, the update allows users to receive personalized watch face recommendations and merge numerous app tiles into one. Now, the double pinch gesture can be used to take a picture, dismiss notifications, and control music.
Vital Sleep Tracking Tools
“Bedtime Guidance” is a new feature in the update that, as the name implies, offers tailored bedtime recommendations based on a user’s activities and sleep habits. To assist users in addressing irregular sleep patterns and improving their quality of sleep, it is integrated with sleep coaching.
Another sleep-related tracking tool is Vascular Load. This gauges the vascular system’s circulatory stress as you sleep, which is a crucial sign of your general health.
Running coach and mindfulness
Athletes and runners would also profit from OneUI 8 Watch’s new Running Coach feature. Personalized training programs are offered by this fitness gadget according to users’ fitness levels and objectives. In order to analyze a runner’s level of fitness and generate a performance analysis, they must essentially complete a 12-minute test. During runs, real-time coaching is also available.
Mindfulness, a well-known function that is new to the Galaxy Watch, is a technique for stress and anxiety management. It includes breathing techniques to help lower stress levels.
Antioxidant Index
One of these new features is the Antioxidant Index, which measures the antioxidant-producing carotenoids in a user’s skin using a non-invasive technique. To determine the antioxidant level, users must press their finger against the Galaxy Watch’s BioActive sensor for five seconds. A score ranging from 0 to 100 is displayed for the outcome, with 100 being the highest and most suitable.
As usual, a person’s level of antioxidants reflects their overall health. The tool also suggests ways to improve carotenoid levels, such as eating more fruits and vegetables.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 8
Advanced health and sleep tracking features. A lighter, more snug design for all day comfort. Improved user interface. Personal AI assistant for hands free help
Additionally, the upgrade allows users to receive personalized watch face recommendations and merge numerous app tiles into one. Additionally, the double pinch gesture may now be used to take a picture, dismiss notifications, and control music.
Given that it has the same sensor and processor as the Galaxy Watch Ultra, the majority of these capabilities are also intended for the Galaxy Watch 7, though we are unsure of when the update will be available for that wristwatch. Additionally, there is no timeline for previous Galaxy Watch models.
Samsung begins rolling out the One UI 8 Watch update in the United States. The main software, which weighs about 2GB and includes a security patch from earlier, is being made available to owners of the original Watch Ultra.
PDA build version L705USQU1BYFE in the US is the stable One UI 8 Watch upgrade that Samsung enthusiasts with Galaxy Watch Ultra may identify. It’s a significant update that adds health monitoring capabilities and a new user interface.
Samsung released the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 on July 9. Compared to the original models, this smartwatch has new colors and more storage. The Watch 8 and Watch Ultra 2025 also marked the official release of the updated Watch OS.
One UI 8 Watch update comes to US
Wear OS is the foundation of Samsung’s One UI 8 Watch. It gives your smartwatch a longer battery life. Reimagined tiles, slicker animations, and reliable functioning are all part of the company’s significant redesign.
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The next significant One UI release will be the One UI 8 update, which Samsung is developing for Android 16. Only the Galaxy S25 series is currently able to access the One UI 8 in public beta. It is being tested internally for a number of devices, though.
On Samsung’s server, the One UI 8 internal beta for the Galaxy S22 and S24 FE was recently discovered. Internal beta testing has already started for these two phones, even if they might not get the public beta. Accordingly, users of the Galaxy S24 FE and S22 can anticipate the stable One UI 8 update shortly following the release of the Galaxy S23 series.
One UI 8 internal build
Build number CYG1 was the One UI 8 internal build for the Galaxy S24 FE, and build GYG1 was the build for the Galaxy S22 series.
This result confirms that the upgrade is currently being developed, even though it might not be a significant accomplishment. Additionally, there’s a potential that the build will leak to the public because internal testing has started, providing unauthorized access to this update on these devices.
We appreciate Tarun Vats’s discovery. In contrast to the One UI 7 build, you may anticipate that the stable One UI 8 upgrade will arrive on schedule if you own a Galaxy S24 FE or Galaxy S22. Additionally, don’t wait for the public beta because Samsung often only publishes it for a select few devices, primarily the most recent flagship and mid-range models.
It is anticipated that One UI 8 will introduce some new features and significantly increase One UI performance. There will be some additions even if there might not be as many significant improvements as One UI 7. For instance, the Adaptive Lock Screen clock, which looks fantastic, will also be included. Expect some UI improvements for stock apps as well.
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From strong, integrated security features like Samsung Knox to optional anti-theft settings that you must manually activate, Samsung phones come with an extensive array of security safeguards. It can be difficult to find and activate all of these security toggles, but the upcoming major One UI update offers a simpler method to increase the security of your device.
An optional Advanced Protection security mode, a one-click toggle that turns on a number of system and app-level security protections, will be included in the One UI 8 update. It permits, for instance, USB data protection, 2G network protection, and sideloading protection. Advanced Protection is available to anyone who want to better protect their data, even though it is intended for high-risk customers who might be the target of skilled attackers.
Advanced Protection feature comes in Android16
To turn on Advanced Protection, follow these steps on your Samsung phone running One UI 8:
Open Settings and select Google
Tap the All services tab
Scroll down to the Personal & device safety category and open Advanced Protection
Toggle “Device protection”
Tap Turn on
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, 512GB
Streamline your day with an assistant that gets you. Ask it to Google search for a pet-friendly vegan restaurant nearby and text it to your friend— your Galaxy S25 Ultra handles multiple tasks with a single ask.
Building on Google’s Advanced Protection Program, which offers further protections against unwanted account access for high-risk users, this new mode is a feature of Android 16. While Advanced Protection does not yet handle any of Samsung’s unique security settings, it does activate the functions stated on its page. That might alter, though, if Samsung incorporates the Advanced Protection API, which enables third-party services and apps to verify whether the mode is enabled and activate their own security features.
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With Google’s surprise and abrupt hike in trade-in prices, now is an excellent time to exchange your damaged Pixel 6a for $524. You won’t find a better deal elsewhere.
The Pixel 6a’s battery will be throttled by a necessary update that Google is releasing on July 8th, for those who are unaware. This is a reaction to earlier this year’s allegations of phones overheating. The Pixel 4a experienced a similar issue, and the upgrade eventually reduced the phone’s battery life to a few hours.
According to Google, the Pixel 6a’s battery capacity will be lowered after 400 charge cycles or if the device is found to be impacted by the issue. Depending on where you live, the search company will replace your battery for free. But, utilizing the greatest trade-in offer I’ve seen this year is a better choice.
Google U.K. introduced a new campaign last week that increases trade-in pricing, meaning that phones that are effectively dead will get a sizable payoff. The regular Pixel 9 costs up to £675 ($920.50), the Pixel 9 Pro and XL versions cost £820 ($1118.24), and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold costs £1,045 ($1425.07). In addition to its standard trade-in assessments, Google claims that this adds a bonus of between £200 ($272.58) and £400 ($545.16).
Google will give you more money for your old phone
Google Pixel 9 Pro
Pixel 9 Pro with Gemini is the most powerful Pixel yet, and now comes in two sizes; it has a pro-level camera and it’s engineered by Google, so it gets the best of Google AI first
The company will pay £384 ($523.78) for your Pixel 6a. You won’t get anything like that for a Pixel 6a unless you con someone on eBay by sending them a broken Pixel 6a instead of an iPhone 14 (don’t do that). This is a good offer that I haven’t seen from Google or any other manufacturer before, if you’re not put off by their battery-related antics.
Google Pixel 7 Pro – £454 ($618.75)
Google Pixel 6 Pro – £415 ($565.60)
Google Pixel 5 – £377 ($513.81)
Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max – £657 ($895.42)
Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max – £447 ($609.21)
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra – £517 ($704.62)
Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus – £373 ($508.36)
Google releases the battery restricting update on July 8th, which also happens to be the day the offer finishes. But don’t worry, there will be more in the future given the scope and regularity of Google, Samsung, and Amazon’s promotional offers.
As part of early Prime Day savings, two of Samsung’s top smartwatch models are currently on sale for incredibly low rates, so forget about the rumored Samsung Galaxy Watch 8. I’m referring to the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra, of course.
Amazon is selling the 40mm Galaxy Watch 7 for just $209, down from $299, and the 44mm variant for just $199.99, down from $269. But that’s not all. Amazon now sells the durable and long-lasting Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra for $399, down from $649. Visit our early Prime Day bargains live blog for further discounts.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 (44mm)
1.5″ Super AMOLED, 480x480px ~327ppi, 425mAh Battery, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, MIL-STD-810H compliant, 50m/5ATM water resistant (IP68), ECG certified, Sleep Coach, Heart Monitor
With the Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event less than a week away, where we’ll likely get our first look at the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Watch 8, now is a wonderful time to get a Galaxy Watch 7 or Ultra for less money!
The Galaxy Watch 7 is still a really powerful and impressive smartwatch, and even after the release of the Galaxy Watch 8, I’ll probably still suggest it if it stays affordable, even though the next generation smartwatches will undoubtedly have some awesome new capabilities.
The Galaxy Watch 7 is the greatest wristwatch for tracking sleep in 2025, in addition to being one of my favorite Android-compatible models. Available in 40mm or 45mm (both sizes are on sale), it provides a plethora of helpful native and third-party apps, dependable workout tracking and safety features, outstanding AI-backed holistic insights, and an incredibly comfortable design.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra deal
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 47mm LTE
RUGGED. RELIABLE. READY FOR ANYTHING: Climb the highest peak; Bike the long way home; The durable titanium design is our toughest yet, able to stand up to the rigors of your workout, including rainy or dusty conditions — even ocean swimming
In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra has twice the battery life (up to three days in low power mode) and a much larger, all-titanium case with 100 meters of water resistance (compared to the Watch 7’s 50mm) and all the same features and comprehensive tools as the Galaxy Watch 7.
With the same tough-as-nails, anything-goes attitude as the Apple Watch Ultra series, consider it the Android counterpart.
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The One UI 8 Watch Beta update for the Galaxy Watch 7 and Watch Ultra, which is based on Wear OS 6, was released by Samsung a few hours ago. According to the changelog, the firm wants to improve the Galaxy Watch experience by adding smarter controls, new health features, simpler notification management, and other significant updates. Early previews of the major new upgrade, featuring the revised user interface, are now available.
A first look at key changes in One UI 8 Watch
People will notice a cleaner, more polished interface as soon as they install One UI 8 Watch. The system’s user interface has been completely revamped by Samsung. The screen seems smoother and more layered thanks to a blurred backdrop effect, and the battery icon now resembles the one seen on Galaxy phones running One UI 7. Additionally, a stylish new charging animation has been included, which gives even the act of plugging in your watch a more contemporary vibe.
Now Bar is also included to Samsung’s watch platform with this upgrade. The Now Bar, which provides instant access to ongoing tasks and important information, is located at the bottom of the watch face, just like on Galaxy phones (thanks, @DalgleishGX!). Its style can be altered to better fit your requirements.
One UI 8 Watch significantly improves tile usability. To cut down on screen clutter, you can now group related tiles into one. You can also make custom tiles that show the information you care about most, like the weather, upcoming events, or reminders, all in one location. Although it’s a little adjustment, it greatly streamlines daily use.
Additionally, Samsung updated the Apps screen, enabling users to alternate between list view and grid view. You may now choose whether you want a traditional scrolling list or a condensed overview of your apps on the screen. Notifications have also been changed; they are now simpler to view and use, with clearer formatting that highlights alerts without being obtrusive.
A more organized Settings menu
Finding what you need is now faster thanks to a redesigned and more structured Settings menu. Additionally, Samsung is adding Routines to its portfolio of Galaxy Watches. For users who prefer their devices to anticipate their requirements, this automation function allows you to set rules such as turning off notifications when you go to bed or changing modes based on time or activity.
Last but not least, the Double Pinch gesture is new to the One UI 8 Watch. You can start apps, control music, activate the Now Bar, and scroll through notifications by just pinching your thumb and index finger together twice. Particularly for accessibility and fast interactions without touching the screen, it’s a potent addition. As we discover more intriguing improvements in the initial One UI 8 Watch beta, we’ll keep you informed.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7
1.5″ Super AMOLED, 480x480px ~327ppi, 425mAh Battery, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, MIL-STD-810H compliant, 50m/5ATM water resistant (IP68), ECG certified, Sleep Coach, Heart Monitor
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We are looking at a real-life photograph of the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, which has leaked once more. Days before its anticipated release, leaker Setsuna Digital, also known as Instant Digital, posted the image on Weibo, giving us a better glimpse of what might be Samsung’s upcoming wristwatch.
The Galaxy Watch 8 series has been the subject of more leaks lately. The Classic model recently surfaced in an eBay sale, suggesting that testing or retail units may already be in circulation, in addition to CAD-based renders for the full Watch 8 series. The mounting body of evidence is further strengthened by this new image.
Galaxy Watch 8 Classic squircled design
The picture displays a black leather band on a metal watch body. Along with what appears to be a real spinning bezel, the watch has two side buttons. The “squircle” form that debuted with the Galaxy Watch Ultra and has unquestionably come to be associated with it is one obvious departure from Samsung’s earlier Classic watch offerings. With all of its watches, Samsung seems to be moving in the direction of this new design.
Also, the screen might be larger and the bezel seems a little smaller than in previous versions, however Samsung has not verified any of these claims. There have also been rumors that the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic would have a more durable design and a brighter display.
Although Samsung has not yet made the Galaxy Watch 8 series official, it is anticipated that the firm will do so during its Unpacked event on July 9th, along with its upcoming line of foldable gadgets. The Galaxy Z Fold 7, Galaxy Z Flip 7, and other new wearables are anticipated to be the main attractions of the event.
The likelihood that the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic will soon have this upgraded appearance is growing as more leaks support the same design. The return of the spinning bezel and its new brand identity may help it stand out in Samsung’s growing watch selection, though it is unclear if it will be able to draw attention over the well-liked Ultra model.Real-world photos of the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic were leaked once more.
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Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 (44mm)
1.5″ Super AMOLED, 480x480px ~327ppi, 425mAh Battery, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, MIL-STD-810H compliant, 50m/5ATM water resistant (IP68), ECG certified, Sleep Coach, Heart Monitor
