Samsung has launched the One UI 8 Watch beta today, and with it, yet another attempt to elevate the Galaxy Watch from competent to exceptional. Packed with promises of smarter gesture control, deeper health tracking, and more meaningful personalization, the update looks solid on paper. But the real question remains: will it actually fix what’s been missing?
Zepp has now globally launched the Amazfit Balance 2, the successor to the popular Amazfit Balance from last year. This next-generation smartwatch continues to keep some core traits of the original Balance but offers more robust features and build. However, it’s pricier than before, which blurs the line between it and the ultra-rugged T-Rex 3.
Meta is expected to introduce the next-generation Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses this year. However, before we see the successor, they have announced a new range of smart frames partnered with Oakley, with the Oakley Meta HSTN as the first entry. These new $399 smart glasses offer upgraded specifications designed for more active users and athletes.
A smartwatch is a great tool for managing and improving your wellness. While there are a handful of recommendations, a Galaxy Watch is particularly a top option for Samsung users. Right now the Galaxy Watch 7 on sale, with Amazon discounting it by $100 (33%) and Best Buy by $80 (27%), bringing its down to $199 and $219, respectively.
Samsung’s Galaxy Watches are some of the most advanced wearables, featuring sophisticated monitoring tools. With the One UI 8 Watch update, the Koreans plan to bring even more vital tracking functions. However, it appears these new features could end up behind a paywall for some Galaxy Watch models.
While summer is yet to officially start, you may now begin planning for your outdoor workouts. A smartwatch is a useful companion for tracking your activities. If you’re enmeshed in Android’s ecosystem, the Google Pixel Watch 3 is one of the best options. Right now, the 45 mm model is discounted to $349 from $399, saving you $50.
More than just new tricks, Google continues to equip Android with lifesaving features such as emergency alerts. Part of this initiative includes earthquake alerts, which use crowdsourced Android smartphones to detect seismic activity and warn users in affected regions. Now, this feature is set to expand to smartwatches.
Also read: How to make your Android phone hack-proof
Zepp’s Amazfit smartwatches have long been recognized as reliable yet affordable wearables. The company also introduced its first screen-free tracker, the Amazfit Helio Strap, though its key features and price have remained speculative. However, a new listing sheds light on these details, including a competitive price that could significantly undercut Whoop.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is one of the most rugged and capable Android-based smartwatches today, but its premium price might be an obstacle. Fortunately, it receives frequent discounts, making it more reasonable. Right now, Amazon has the smartwatch back to $399, which is $250 cheaper than its usual price.
The Galaxy Watch Ultra is Samsung’s first ultra-rugged smartwatch entry, and it was also the first to introduce the squircle design. Initially, this could have been an exclusive form factor for the Ultra smartwatch range, but it appears that the upcoming Galaxy Watch 8 may also adopt a bolder design.