Today, Samsung shared early insights into its upcoming hardware lineup as part of its Q1 2025 earnings release. Alongside confirming the Galaxy S25 Edge, new XR products, and new foldables with advanced AI experiences, the company revealed that both the Galaxy Watch 8 and Galaxy Tab S11 series are on track for launch later this year. The announcements hint at design changes, deeper AI integration, and an expanded focus on health and productivity.
Galaxy Watch 8 to feature a redesigned look and smarter health features
During the earnings call, Samsung referenced a “new Galaxy Watch with an innovative design and enhanced health-related features,” signaling a refresh of its smartwatch lineup. It may not be a drastic shift from the tried and tested circular form factor — squircle for the Watch Ultra line — the company may introduce some visual enhancements for a fresh look.
Based on leaks, Samsung has the Galaxy Watch 8, Watch 8 Classic, and Watch Ultra 2 in development. The former should be the entry-level offering, while the Classic should feature a more sporty look with the iconic physical rotating bezel. The Ultra, meanwhile, is expected to be the top-tier model intended for power users. Alongside a bulky design with a big battery, you should get a more durable build.
Interestingly, there are also rumors of Samsung canceling the Ultra model this year in favor of the Watch 8 Classic. We wouldn’t be surprised if it did that. The 2024 Galaxy Watch Ultra is already a perfectly capable rugged smartwatch for athletes and frontline workers. More details should emerge soon.
While we wait for confirmation, it’s looking increasingly likely that the next crop of Samsung watches will ship with Wear OS 6-based One UI 7 Watch. Samsung should continue to emphasize AI and wellness as core areas for wearables, offering improved health-tracking capabilities. Expect more advanced sleep, stress, and heart metrics, bolstered by on-device AI for real-time insights.
AI will remain a core focus for the Galaxy Tab S11 series as well
Samsung also confirmed it is working on the Galaxy Tab S11 lineup, describing it as “AI-focused” — in line with the company’s efforts to bring Galaxy AI features across its flagship ecosystem. The new tablets could feature AI tools for productivity, creativity, and smarter multitasking. We expect features like on-device summarization, handwriting recognition, and enhanced DeX experience.
If rumors are accurate, Samsung may unveil the new smartwatches in July. It’s preparing to host a new Unpacked in the first half of July, introducing the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7. The event may bring a few more products, but the Galaxy Tab S11 series may not be part of it. The new tablets could arrive in the second half of 2025, likely in time for the holiday season. Or maybe Samsung has different plans, we shall find out soon.