Samsung has announced that its One UI 6 update is becoming available to a broader range of its Galaxy Watch devices.
Starting today, the software update will gradually roll out, introducing selected features from the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Watch 7 to earlier generations of the line-up.
The earlier devices that will soon enjoy the new features are: Galaxy Watch 6, Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, Galaxy Watch 5, Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, Galaxy Watch 4, Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, and Galaxy Watch FE.
Enhanced health and wellness features
The expanded availability of One UI 6 Watch is designed to enhance user motivation and assist in achieving fitness aspirations through personalised experiences.
One of the key additions is the comprehensive Energy Score, which provides users with a holistic understanding of their physical and mental conditions.
The Energy Score is calculated from various health metrics, including:
- Sleep quality
- Activity levels
- Sleeping heart rate
- Sleeping heart rate variability
Users can now access personalised recommendations powered by Galaxy AI to support health improvement and wellness goals.
One of the most significant advancements is in sleep tracking. The update introduces a more sophisticated sleep analysis powered by an advanced AI algorithm, offering deeper insights through new sleep metrics such as:
- Movement during sleep
- Sleep latency
- Heart rate
- Respiratory rate
A notable health feature is the De Novo FDA-authorised sleep apnea detection, now available on a wider range of Galaxy Watch devices. This feature helps more users proactively identify potential signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea.
However, Samsung clarifies the new health features are “not intended for use in the detection, diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, or management of any medical condition or disease.” Users should consult healthcare professionals and not interpret health-related data as medical advice.
Other updates to improve users’ fitness include real-time progress monitoring via ‘Race’, which compares shifts in both current and past performance to encourage improvements. The ‘Workout Routine’ feature allows users to combine various exercises, creating bespoke routines tailored to individual goals and preferences.
Additional One UI 6 highlights for Galaxy Watch devices
The update also brings a set of new watch faces designed to meet diverse aesthetic and functional requirements:
- ‘Simple Digital’ watch face for minimalist design enthusiasts
- ‘Ultra Info Board’ watch face for quick data access without compromising style
The One UI 6 watch update facilitates more seamless interaction with connected Galaxy devices. When paired with a compatible Galaxy smartphone, users can:
- Send AI-powered Suggested Replies
- Use new “Double Pinch” gestures to control their smartphone directly from the wrist, including answering calls, dismissing alarms, and taking photos
Samsung emphasises that while the AI features are designed to enhance user experience, they do not guarantee absolute accuracy, completeness, or reliability.
The software will initially be available to the Galaxy Watch 6 series, with previous models receiving the update in stages. However, the availability of specific features may vary depending on market, carrier, model, and the paired smartphone.
(Image Credit: Samsung)
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