Discover How the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Watch7 were planned to be the next big thing.
A revolutionary smartwatch is here — crafted to support users beyond routine health tracking and to accompany them on intense adventures. Presenting the Galaxy Watch Ultra, the most potent smartwatch in the Galaxy Watch series so far.
The debut of the high-end Galaxy Watch Ultra and the Galaxy Watch7, equipped with superior health monitoring features, indicates Samsung Electronics’ dedication to demonstrating the infinite potential wearable on users’ wrists.
The Wearable Product Planning Group, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics, had a discussion with Samsung Newsroom. Scott Yu and Elin Park explained the formation process of these products.
Can you explain the planning process for the Galaxy Watch Ultra?
Yu: The Galaxy Watch Ultra is a superior, high-end extension to our existing Galaxy Watch series. After detailed market research, we noticed substantial growth opportunities in the luxury sector and decided to explore this avenue. The Galaxy Watch Ultra has been designed focusing on robustness and advanced AI features to enhance outdoor experiences like never before.
What was the difference in approach when designing features for outdoor sports versus everyday health care?
Our goal was to create a solution that would cater to everyone, from the occasional user to fitness enthusiasts and professionals looking to boost their physical health. Initially, we concentrated on the most common activities such as running, cycling, and swimming while considering various use cases to improve corresponding features. Interestingly, we found that many individuals switch between two or three forms of activities rather than sticking to one. This revelation led us to launch Multi-sports tiles — a feature that enables users to personalize their exercise combinations and track the outcomes of various workouts including duathlons and triathlons.
Impact of Galaxy AI on the planning of Galaxy Watch series?
Yu: Our thought process revolved around how wearables can act as a conduit for AI experiences in the Galaxy ecosystem. By synergizing with related departments, we focused on merging the abilities of Galaxy smartphones and watches to amplify AI functionalities. For instance, functional threshold power (FTP)^1^ calculates users’ peak cycling power utilizing heart rate monitoring and AI-driven metrics to help users tap into their full capacity. Furthermore, the Galaxy Watch employs AI algorithms to persistently monitor sleep data and provide in-depth sleep analysis.
Galaxy AI is set to broaden horizons for users. Let me draw your attention to one particular feature known as Energy Score^2^. This feature is accessible on both the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Watch7. Galaxy AI examines a range of health signals, such as sleep and activity data, and generates scores that represent the user’s overall energy levels. This aids users in comprehending their physical condition in a more instinctive and precise manner.
What was the most significant hurdle in creating the new timepieces?
The Galaxy Watch Ultra showcases a Quick Button for the first time — a result of careful thought about various user scenarios and necessary actions to manage the device. A single or double quick press allows users to reach their most frequently used features. In emergencies, a five-second hold triggers an Emergency Siren that can be heard up to 180 meters away with an intensity of up to 86 decibels. The incorporation of this new feature demanded continuous interaction and cooperation among the mechanical, design, and hardware teams. Read More
