Samsung appears poised to abandon the signature circular case design that has defined its smartwatches for nearly a decade. Hidden animation files within unreleased One UI 8 Watch firmware suggest the Galaxy Watch 8 and Galaxy Watch 8 Classic will adopt a squircle (rounded square) frame while retaining a circular display. The Classic model is also expected to inherit features from last year’s Galaxy Watch Ultra, including a dedicated Quick Button and enhanced haptic feedback, signaling a more rugged build.
Upgraded Specs and Faster Charging Revealed in Leaks
Regulatory filings and early leaks provide additional details about the upcoming lineup. The new models may support 10W wireless charging, slightly larger batteries, and ship with Wear OS powered by One UI 8. Key specifications reportedly include:
- Exynos W1000 (3nm chipset)
- 2GB RAM and 32GB storage
- 435mAh battery (44mm model) and 300mAh (40mm variant)
- Bluetooth 5.3 LE, dual-band Wi-Fi, NFC, optional LTE
- Two case sizes for the standard Galaxy Watch 8, with at least one option for the Classic edition
The Squircle Advantage: Balancing Form and Function
A squircle design merges the ergonomic comfort of a circle with the added internal space of a square, allowing for larger batteries or additional sensors without increasing bulk. Competitors like Apple have adopted similar shapes, with the Watch Series 10 reportedly featuring flatter edges and a slimmer profile. The trend suggests a shift toward enhanced comfort, advanced health tracking, and on-device AI rather than purely aesthetic appeal.
Incremental Upgrades Over Galaxy Watch 7
For users upgrading from the Galaxy Watch 7, improvements may seem subtle. While last year’s model earned praise for its refined software and accurate health monitoring, its battery life often fell short of two days. The rumored 435mAh battery could extend usage slightly, though it may still trail fitness-focused rivals with multi-day endurance. The inclusion of a Quick Button—previously exclusive to the Ultra—could streamline workout activation and safety features, offering a tangible convenience boost.
A Potential Sweet Spot for Wear OS Enthusiasts
If Samsung retains its signature rotating bezel, implements these refinements, and maintains competitive pricing, the Galaxy Watch 8 series could become the ideal Wear OS smartwatch many users have anticipated. The blend of familiar usability and meaningful upgrades may solidify Samsung’s position in a market increasingly focused on practicality and performance.
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