Samsung has just unveiled its latest smartwatches. We were able to try the premium model in the range, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2.
Samsung used its Unpacked event to reveal its new products. Alongside its foldable smartphones, the brand also presented its 2026 smartwatch line-up, including the eagerly anticipated Galaxy Watch Ultra 2.
The Galaxy Watch 9 is clearly the model aimed at the widest audience. It comes in two sizes, 40 mm and 44 mm, retaining its round AMOLED display and premium aluminium case, available in grey or black. The latter is slimmer than the Galaxy Watch 8, measuring just 8.6 mm thick.
Technically, the Watch 9 aims to be faultless. It features a powerful yet energy-efficient Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear Elite processor, more accurate GPS and a screen capable of reaching 3,000 nits of brightness, making it well suited to outdoor use. Battery life remains limited, however, with a 390 mAh battery. Samsung claims 30 hours of use, which feels insufficient for a smartwatch in 2026.
Having spent some time with it, we can confirm that the Galaxy Watch 9 feels very well made. Its low weight, practical strap - offered in a wide choice of materials including rubber and fabric - and immaculate finishing are particularly welcome. The hardware refresh is also accompanied by a software update. Samsung has redesigned Samsung Health with a clearer interface and more accurate metrics, including a heart score, cardio load, overall fitness level and fitness index to guide users through their sporting activities. Other minor additions include a hearing protection feature: the watch will alert you if you remain in a noisy environment for too long.
Galaxy Watch 9 prices and versions
The Galaxy Watch 9 is available in several variants. These are the announced prices:
- Galaxy Watch 9 40 mm, Bluetooth: €409
- Galaxy Watch 9 40 mm, 4G: €459
- Galaxy Watch 9 44 mm, Bluetooth: €439
- Galaxy Watch 9 44 mm, 4G: €489
Galaxy Watch Ultra 2: we tested the new flagship model
While Samsung is targeting mainstream buyers with the Galaxy Watch 9, the Korean manufacturer has introduced the considerably more premium Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 for extreme sports enthusiasts. It is not a revolutionary departure from the first version released in 2024, but it brings numerous refinements. We wore it for nearly a week.
A titanium design built for demanding use
Starting with the design, Samsung describes its shape as “enhanced by AI”. The watch remains just as imposing, with a case more than one centimetre thick, yet it is still comfortable to wear. That may also be because we tend to like larger watches on the wrist. The case remains titanium, which we appreciate: the material is both robust and pleasant to the touch.
On the technical side, Samsung is aiming for the very best with a 1.52-inch AMOLED display that reaches a peak brightness of 5,000 nits. That is enormous. During our summer walks, readability was never an issue, a real advantage for trail runners and extreme sports fans. The Watch Ultra 2 naturally has all the relevant certifications, including IP69K for water, dust and high-pressure resistance, as well as EN 13319 for immersion down to 40 metres. Even the most adventurous users can therefore wear it in extreme conditions.
Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 sports tools and battery life
The Watch Ultra 2 includes all the software additions mentioned above, while also offering features of its own, such as personalised workouts and dedicated activities including Trail mode. This provides a real-time mapping application, elevation information and even hydration reminders. The same degree of precision is available for other supported activities, including diving and cycling. These functions will not transform athletes’ lives, but they could make a genuine difference to their training.
Finally, battery life remains Samsung watches’ main weakness. This Watch Ultra 2 has an 800 mAh battery. Samsung promises 90 hours of battery life with standard use, a figure we can broadly confirm, although our experience was closer to 80 than 90 hours. It also claims 16 hours in Trail mode and 20 hours with GPS tracking. For a product of this class, that still feels slightly limited. Having to keep a constant eye on the battery level for fear of running out of power midway through an activity is always frustrating, especially when some competitors offer watches that last almost 20 days, such as Honor’s Watch 6.
The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 remains one of the leading smartwatches for extreme sports enthusiasts. We admit that it is not designed for us - we are more the target audience for the Galaxy Watch 9 - but its technical equipment, ultra-tough titanium case and sports features make it one of the market’s essential options, alongside the Huawei Watch Ultimate 2 and Apple Watch Ultra.
It is sold in a single 4G configuration for €749. Buyers can choose either a rubber strap, which is better suited to sport, or a faux-leather strap for a more elegant look.
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