Samsung has recently made strides in expanding artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities across its product range, specifically moving from the Galaxy S24 smartphones into the realm of smartwatches. The confirmation of Galaxy AI features arriving on Galaxy Watches not only fulfills the promises made by the tech giant but also marks a significant turn in wearable technology.
The introduction of Galaxy AI to smartwatches comes with the announcement that these features will initially be offered at no cost. However, users should be aware that this complementary period won’t last indefinitely. As indicated by Samsung, it plans to introduce a payment model for these advanced AI features down the line, although the specifics around this change remain sparse.
This week, Samsung provided details regarding the rollout of AI features as part of the major Wear OS 5 update. A key aspect of the new AI functionalities lies in enhancing health features within the Galaxy Watch series. Samsung has indicated that initial access to these features will be complimentary until the end of 2025 but has also suggested that conditions might differ if third-party AI features are involved.
One of the pressing questions among users has been around compatibility—specifically, whether the AI features on the Galaxy Watch would be restricted to use exclusively with Samsung smartphones or if they would be accessible via other Android devices. Recent insights hint at a broader compatibility, as terms such as ‘other Android devices’ have been spotted in Samsung’s communications, implying the possibility that users with non-Samsung Android phones (running Android 10 or higher) might also enjoy these AI enhancements, as long as they have the Samsung Health app (v6.27 or above) installed and a Samsung account to log in.
Among the innovative health features coming to Galaxy Watches is the provision of an energy score. This function provides users with a comprehensive overview of their health by monitoring sleep patterns, heart rate, and physical activity. Additionally, wearable users can benefit from Wellness Tips, which offer health goal reminders and tailor-made suggestions to support these targets. For those looking to delve deeper into their sleep quality, the advanced sleep tracking powered by AI offers a richer analysis of sleep patterns, along with recommendations for improving sleep habits.
For the moment, these features are only accessible to a limited number of Galaxy Watch users based in the U.S. and Korea through the ongoing One UI 6 Watch beta program. However, the full suite of AI features is set to become widely available with the official update slated for release in June.
Samsung’s latest foray into enhanced AI capabilities for Galaxy Watches not only signifies an advancement in wearable technology but also indicates a future where AI integration becomes more ubiquitous and, subsequently, monetized. Users keen on optimizing their health and fitness routines with these cutting-edge features should be prepared for potential additional costs in the future, while making the most of the free access currently on offer.
