Samsung’s annual summer hardware event is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in years, with rumors now suggesting a major rebranding of its flagship smartwatch. Instead of the anticipated Galaxy Watch8 Classic, insiders claim the company will debut the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, positioning it as a premium-tier wearable designed to rival the Apple Watch Ultra. The device is expected to launch alongside the Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Flip7, and standard Galaxy Watch8 models at an event tentatively scheduled for late July or early August.
A Bold Rebranding Strategy
The shift from “Classic” to “Ultra” hints at Samsung’s ambition to redefine its smartwatch lineup. Historically, the Classic series emphasized a rotating bezel and timeless design, but leaks suggest the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 will prioritize rugged durability, advanced fitness tracking, and extended battery life—features aimed at outdoor enthusiasts and athletes. Industry analysts speculate that Samsung is consolidating its premium offerings under the Ultra branding, mirroring its smartphone strategy with the Galaxy S Ultra series.
Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 Steal the Spotlight
While the smartwatch news is grabbing headlines, Samsung’s foldables remain the centerpiece of the event. Recent reports, including a detailed breakdown from GSMArena, suggest the Galaxy Z Fold7 will be Samsung’s thinnest foldable yet, thanks to redesigned hinges and a slimmer internal display. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Flip7 is rumored to pack a larger 4,000mAh battery, addressing one of the most common criticisms of its predecessor.
Adding fuel to the fire, Greek tech outlet TechManiacs published exclusive renders showing both foldables in striking new colorways, including a matte titanium finish for the Fold7 and a gradient purple option for the Flip7.
What to Expect from the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2
Though details remain scarce, early leaks suggest the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 will feature:
- A titanium casing for enhanced durability.
- A larger, brighter AMOLED display with improved sunlight visibility.
- Upgraded health sensors, including blood pressure monitoring and sleep apnea detection.
- Multi-day battery life, potentially lasting up to 100 hours on a single charge.
- Compatibility with one-click interchangeable bands, similar to Apple’s magnetic system.
The watch is also expected to run Samsung’s new One UI 6 Watch, based on Wear OS 5, which promises faster performance and AI-driven fitness coaching.
Pricing and Availability
Samsung’s pivot to an Ultra smartwatch could come with a price hike. While the Galaxy Watch8 is rumored to start at 599, placing it in direct competition with Apple’s high-end wearable. For those eager to jump into Samsung’s ecosystem early, current models like the Galaxy Watch6 Classic are already discounted ahead of the new launch.
The Bigger Picture
Samsung’s event isn’t just about products—it’s a statement of intent. By streamlining its foldables and repositioning its smartwatch lineup, the company is doubling down on premium innovation. With Apple’s next-gen wearables and foldables still months away, Samsung has a golden opportunity to dominate the summer market.
Stay tuned for more updates as the launch date approaches!