Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra Looks Like an Answer to Apple’s Fitness Model

Samsung’s rumored Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra might be a direct response to the Apple Watch Ultra, if renders from OnLeaks and Smartprix are accurate.

The next-generation smartwatch would combine a squarish, possibly more durable case with Samsung’s usual circular display. There would also be larger speakers and a third side button with unknown functions. It might be the equivalent of the Action button on the Apple Watch Ultra, which can launch tasks, mark laps and otherwise offer time-saving shortcuts.

The Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra also appears to have a new health sensor array. We wouldn’t count on a rumored non-invasive blood glucose monitor (those have been technically elusive), but there have been suggestions of AI-driven features like continuous monitoring for heart conditions.

Past leaks have hinted that all new models would have an Exynos W940 chipset that’s reportedly 30% faster and 50% more efficient than before, along with 50% faster wireless charging. The Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra might use its larger casing for a higher-capacity battery.

There’s a possibility the Galaxy Watch 7 series will use Wear OS 5, which Google just introduced at its I/O conference. The new platform emphasizes battery life, particularly for workouts. A marathon uses 20% less power than with Wear OS 4, Google said.

Samsung is expected to unveil the Ultra, a regular Galaxy Watch 7, and a Watch 7 Classic at an Unpacked event this summer. It would go on sale shortly afterward.

Provided the details are authentic, the strategy is clear: Samsung is hoping to entice active users who’d otherwise buy an Apple Watch Ultra and the iPhone to match. The move would also give all Android users a viable equivalent to Apple’s model, and might lure some of them away from fitness-first options from Garmin, Polar, and similar brands.