Securing computational design data through 4D scanner

Developing wearables with the optimal fit and comfort remains a difficult yet crucial challenge. Not only do these factors make the device feel more seamless to use, but they are directly tied to maximizing overall performance and sensor accuracy. However, the fact that each person’s anatomy is completely unique presents a major hurdle. But what if there was a way to meticulously engineer comfort, fit and sensing so precisely, it could deliver the optimal experience for nearly everyone?

Samsung’s solution is Computational Design. This multidimensional process harnesses AI and advanced computing to analyze hundreds of thousands of quantitative and qualitative data points to generate, test, and refine product designs with greater precision. The result is a fundamental shift from subjective feedback to objective, data-driven engineering, creating superior products with the optimal fit for the widest range of users.

That description captures computational design in the abstract—like a dictionary definition. To understand how computational design is actually used to create superior wearables, Samsung Newsroom visited the Samsung Design Innovation Center (SDIC) in San Francisco, home to the Computational Design Lab.

Federico Casalegno, EVP and Head of the Samsung Design Innovation Center

Spearheading the SDIC is Federico Casalegno, Executive Vice President and Head of the Samsung Design Innovation Center, who has spent the past two decades mastering the practice of computational design and leading the implementation of this core concept into Samsung’s product development. We sat down with Federico to discuss how SDIC employs computational design as a primary tool to create and optimize experiences for Samsung’s wearables, particularly the Galaxy Buds4 series.

Q. Tell us about SDIC’s role.

At SDIC, our mission is to deliver meaningful experiences by understanding people and their evolving lifestyles—always in the context of human-centered design. Ultimately, we want to delight customers and create products that help people live happier, healthier, more creative, and more productive lives, while building a better future for all and preserving the environment. To achieve this, SDIC brings together the power of design and creativity with data-driven decision-making. Supported by AI, machine learning, robotics, and advanced computing, our talented, multidisciplinary team of designers is constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, delivering unparalleled user experiences and real, tangible benefits.

At SDIC, design is combined with AI, data, and computing to achieve maximum comfort for wearable devices.

Q. What exactly is computational design, and what is the philosophy behind it?

While we live in a unique era of technological innovation, Samsung’s approach to design was always deeply human-centered as we believe that technology without humanity is merely perfection without purpose. Computational design is how we bring this philosophy to life—it is the process of harnessing the immense power of AI, data, and computing to design products for people, rather than expecting people to adapt to our products. This approach helps us to create devices that are fundamentally functional, intuitive, comfortable and beautifully crafted. Today, this methodology is applied all across our wearable portfolio, including Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Buds4 series.

The computational design process involves various state-of-the-art testing equipment, including 4D scanning.

Q. How does computational design turn the ‘fit’ of a device into an objective, measurable metric?

For developing something as personal as a wearable that remains in contact with you for extended periods, fit is an essential element. It’s not just about comfort though; a secure fit is also needed for maximizing the precision of the device’s sensors. However, traditional design methods fail to measure wearability objectively, as they only rely on a small sample of people for product testing.

Computational design fundamentally changes this. By leveraging massive, digitalized datasets and advanced AI simulations, it transforms wearability into a quantifiable metric that allows Samsung to measure comfort and fit like never before. By being able to consider all the unique shapes and curves of the human ear or the wrist through computational design, our designers are equipped with trustworthy, objective insights that are difficult to attain through traditional methods.

Optimal design parameters are derived through AI and physics-based simulations, which are then cross-verified with robot testing.

Q. Tell us in detail how the computational design process works in the lab, and how it was implemented in the Buds4 series.

Our computational design process relies on three elements: real people, digital twins, and robots. We capture 3D and 4D scans of a diverse global audience, integrating precise anatomical data to create ‘digital twins.’ We then run AI and physics-based simulations, cross-validating the results with physical robot testing.

For the Buds4 series, we applied this exact process to achieve perfect wearing comfort and premium sound. We analyzed hundreds of millions of global ear data points and ran more than 10,000 simulations to perfect the new blade design. This objective data led us to subtly reduce the size of the main head[1] and refine the angle of rotation—minor adjustments that resulted in a dramatic, universally validated increase in stability and comfort.

Q. How does Samsung’s computational design ultimately benefit the users?

Samsung’s computational design process is powered by a unique proprietary dataset built exclusively from within Samsung, and our team has developed several specialized AI programs based on this data. This combination gives us unique insights while we constantly innovate our design processes and methods. For Galaxy Buds and Watch specifically, this translates into improved wearing comfort, stability and sensor accuracy—key factors that elevate both the user experience and product performance.

Samsung’s lineup of wearables, such as Galaxy Buds4, Galaxy Watch8, and Galaxy Ring, all incorporate computational design in its development process.

Q. Looking ahead, how do you see Computational Design evolving over the next decade?

Computational design is now a foundational element of Samsung’s development process across all our wearable products. Our goal remains to maximize wearability, fit, comfort and sensor performance to ultimately serve the people using it.

Looking ahead, the true power of this process is its continuous evolution. As our dataset continues to grow, custom AI tools will drive more accurate simulations and deeper insights. These advancements will not only further improve product wearability, but also unlock exponential innovations down the line that lead to an entirely new category of wearables that can redefine the boundaries of user experience. Ultimately, this symbiotic partnership between computational design and AI frees our designers to be more creative, empowering us to deliver measurably superior products and experiences for the people who use them.

[1] Galaxy Buds4 only

Introduced at The First Look during CES 2026, “Your Companion to AI Living” reflects Samsung’s vision for AI innovations. The campaign highlights how Samsung’s AI technology, connected products and services seamlessly integrate into everyday life and offer a new way of living that helps care for users and their loved ones. It also focuses on Samsung’s pursuit of AI innovations that anticipate user needs and provide personalized solutions across its ecosystem of devices, platforms and services.

“Through this campaign, we aim to show how Samsung’s products and services, integrated with AI, can become a life companion by proactively understanding users’ needs and offering personalized support when it matters most,” said Stephanie Choi, Executive Vice President and Head of Global Brand Center at Samsung Electronics. “We will continue to create more meaningful ways for customers to experience the value of Samsung’s innovations in their daily lives.”

The campaign includes a series of three humorous videos focused on health, family and pet care. The videos connect with customers by illustrating how Samsung’s AI capabilities, incorporated into its offerings, help elevate customers’ daily lives.

For health-conscious users, the Antioxidant Index,[1] available through Galaxy Watch8 and the Samsung Health app, is shown helping people check their wellness status and receive personalized meal suggestions to maintain healthy eating habits. Additionally, the AI Food Manager[2] in the Bespoke AI Refrigerator Family Hub simplifies ingredient management and offers tailored recipe recommendations.

For pet owners, Now Brief[3] is shown reminding users to walk their dogs and records walk routes and duration in detail, through integration with Pet Care[4] on the SmartThings app.

For families, the Call Screening feature on Galaxy smartphones is shown assisting elderly family members in avoiding unwanted calls, such as potential voice phishing attempts.[5] These videos are being showcased on screens across major global landmarks such as Times Square in New York and Piccadilly Circus in London, as well as on Samsung’s official social media channels, including YouTube and Instagram.

[1] Available on smartphones running Android 10 or later and requires Samsung Health app v.6.0.2 or later.

[2] A Wi-Fi connection and Samsung account are required. If a food item is not recognizable, it may be listed as an unknown item. AI Vision cannot identify or list any food items located in the freezer. Recognition uses AI models that may be updated periodically to help improve performance. Users may need to manually check and adjust the list to ensure its accuracy.

[3] Available on Galaxy S26 series or later smartphones.

[4] The Pet Care service must be activated in the SmartThings app and Samsung account is required. The dog-walking notification will be triggered if the dog has not reached the user’s preset walking target.

[5] Supported on the Galaxy S24 series and smartphones running One UI 8.0 or later, though supported features may vary by model. Available in a total of 13 languages, including Chinese (Simplified), English, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai and Vietnamese.

As GLP-1 medications become widely adopted for weight management and chronic disease treatment, tracking changes in muscle mass and physical activity alongside weight loss has emerged as a key medical focus. This research will delve into the feasibility of managing muscle loss for GLP-1 patients by utilizing biometric data including body composition, activity levels and heart rate provided by Galaxy Watch and Samsung Health.

Samsung and MGH have continuously collaborated on digital health research utilizing both Galaxy Watch and Samsung Health, including studies on Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs). The MGH Diabetes Research Center, which specializes in research on diabetes and GLP-1 obesity treatment, initiated the joint study with Samsung after recognizing the potential for wearables to monitor body composition.

This study will also utilize Galaxy Watch8, powered by Samsung’s groundbreaking BioActive Sensor,[2] which helps provide advanced predictive and preventative wellness through more accurate health measurements.

Under the leadership of Dr. Melissa Putman, the study will enroll 100 adults beginning treatment with weight-loss medications into two groups. The intervention group will use Galaxy Watch to monitor their body composition via Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA), track physical activity and receive personalized exercise guides. Their progress will be compared to the other group, which will receive the standard guidance and care typically given to patients starting GLP-1RA therapy.

To evaluate the study’s progress, researchers will use clinical-grade DXA scans[3] — the gold standard for body composition analysis — to track physiological changes in both groups. These data will help determine whether the insights and tailored guidance provided by Galaxy Watch8 can effectively support participants in building healthier daily habits, which may in turn contribute to better health outcomes particularly in preserving muscle mass.

“Many GLP-1 patients struggle with muscle mass loss, a common side effect that can cause an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and a drop in basal metabolic rate, which can lead to future weight regain,” said Dr. Putman, Director of the MGH Diabetes Research Center. “We’re interested in exploring how continuous data from a wearable device can provide invaluable insights into a patient’s activity levels, heart rate and body composition, giving clinicians a more holistic view of treatment impact and allowing for more timely, data-driven adjustments to their care plan.”

“This collaboration with MGH focuses on addressing real-world health challenges that patients face during GLP-1RA therapy, specifically managing muscle loss and building healthy habits,” said Jongmin Choi, Head of Health R&D Group, Mobile eXperience (MX) Business, Samsung Electronics. “Ultimately, this study highlights Samsung’s ongoing commitment to delivering comprehensive and proactive health management solutions through the advanced capabilities of Galaxy Watch.”

Samsung remains committed to researching how Galaxy Watch can support patients in managing their daily physical health. By fostering sustainable wellness habits, the company aims to help patients achieve better clinical outcomes and long-term vitality.

Samsung continues to expand its partnerships with leading medical institutions to advance wearable health monitoring capabilities and broaden the digital health ecosystem. Recently, Samsung demonstrated the potential for early vasovagal syncope (VVS) detection using Galaxy Watch in a joint clinical study with Chung-Ang University Gwangmyeong Hospital in Korea and also collaborated with Stanford Medicine to further advance Galaxy Watch’s Sleep Apnea feature.

[1] Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a hormone secreted by the intestines after eating that regulates blood sugar levels and suppresses appetite. While GLP-1 weight-loss medications that mimic this hormone are gaining significant popularity globally, they can be accompanied by side effects such as gastrointestinal disorders, muscle mass loss and potential weight regain upon discontinuation.

[2] The BioActive Sensor is a technology that integrates three sensors into a single chipset: an optical heart rate sensor (PPG), an electrical heart rate sensor (ECG) and a bioelectrical impedance analysis sensor (BIA). This sensor has been featured in Galaxy Watch devices since the release of Galaxy Watch4 in 2021, allowing users to measure and monitor various health indicators, such as body composition, heart rate, blood pressure and ECG tracking.

[3] DXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan: A specialized medical imaging technology that uses low-dose X-rays to precisely measure body composition, including body fat, lean muscle mass and bone density. Universally recognized as the “gold standard” for body composition analysis, it is widely utilized in clinical research to accurately evaluate physiological changes.

Vasovagal syncope occurs when a person’s heart rate and blood pressure drop abruptly due to factors like excessive stress, leading to a temporary loss of consciousness. While the fainting spell itself is typically not life-threatening, sudden falls can cause severe secondary injuries like fractures or concussions, making early prediction critically important for prevention.

“Up to 40% of people experience vasovagal syncope over their lifetime, with one-third experiencing recurrent episodes,” said Professor Junhwan Cho of the Department of Cardiology at Chung-Ang University Gwangmyeong Hospital. “An early warning could give patients advance time to get into a safe position or call for help, which would dramatically reduce the incidence of secondary injuries.”

The joint research team, led by Professor Cho, conducted evaluations on 132 patients with suspected VVS symptoms during induced fainting tests. Using a Galaxy Watch equipped with a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor, the team analyzed the watch’s heart rate variability (HRV) data with an AI algorithm. The model successfully predicted impending fainting episodes up to five minutes in advance with 84.6 percent accuracy, at a clinically meaningful sensitivity of 90 percent and a specificity of 64 percent.

“This study is an example of how wearable technology can help shift healthcare from being designed for ‘post-care’ to a model of ‘preventive care,’” said Jongmin Choi, Head of Health R&D Group, Mobile eXperience (MX) Business, Samsung Electronics. “We are committed to driving technological innovation that empowers our users to lead healthier everyday lives.”

The research findings were published in Volume 7, Issue 4 of “European Heart Journal – Digital Health,” a leading medical journal, and they represent the world’s first study to successfully demonstrate the potential for a commercial smartwatch to provide early prediction of syncope.

Samsung plans to further advance the health monitoring capabilities of its wearable portfolio and expand collaboration with leading medical institutions. Through these efforts, the company aims to lead the digital health industry and accelerate the implementation of personalized, preventive health solutions.

This powerful combination of technology and talent has already reaped rewards. After securing a dominant win at the 2025 Chicago Marathon and shattering the half-marathon world record this March in Lisbon, the 25-year-old is now targeting success at the 2026 London Marathon.

▲ Jacob Kiplimo trains for the London Marathon with his Galaxy Watch8.

To mark World Health Day (WHD) 2026 on April 7, Samsung Newsroom asked him to detail his data-driven training regime, which embodies this year’s WHD slogan, “Together for health. Stand with science.”

With exclusive access to his Samsung Health metrics, we take an inside look into his grueling training program, which has seen him cover over 100 km in just one week. Discover how insights led him to adjust his training for optimal recovery and how even a “rest day” can include a 3 km run.

▲ Screenshots from Kiplimo’s Samsung Health app show his varied training routine, including light jogs and long-distance runs.

Q. Congratulations on your recent world record at the 2026 Lisbon Half Marathon. What’s the secret to your success?

There’s no secret. It’s just about discipline. You have to work hard, be extremely focused, and manage your energy — knowing when to rest and when to push harder. But honestly, the most important part is that you have to really want what you’re working toward. I wouldn’t have broken the world record if I didn’t follow that formula.

Q. You finished second at the 2025 London Marathon and are now preparing to go one step further at this year’s event. What role has your Galaxy Watch8 played in your training?

My coach doesn’t live in Uganda, so my Galaxy Watch8 has basically become his personal assistant here. Even though he’s not with me, he can get real-time analysis and reports on my running form through the Running Analysis feature in Samsung Health. We track my heart rate and pay close attention to my pace for each kilometer. During the harder sessions, I also monitor the asymmetry readings to see if I’m overcompensating on one side so I can avoid strain. Contact time is another key aspect I keep an eye on, making small adjustments to my form to ensure every stride is as efficient as possible. I always try to improve my running economy, so these insights are incredibly helpful.

▲ Kiplimo’s Samsung Health data from March 13–19 reveals how he ramps up his training routine throughout the week.

Q. Looking at your recent Samsung Health data, we can see some clear patterns in your training routine. Tell us about your regime.

Consistency is key, but athletes must not be obsessed with training. What many people don’t realize is that rest is equally as important as physical training. To compete at your best, you need to be able to maximize your energy, and the only way to do that is through consistent rest. But “rest” doesn’t always mean no training. A rest day can mean running 3 km instead of 40 km. You have to be consistent in what you’re doing, but you also need to listen to your body and know when to slow down. Technology can help a lot with this.

Q. Can you give us an example of how a specific insight from the Samsung Health app led you to adapt your training program?

The decision to run 3 km instead of 40 km that I just mentioned was a true story. After experiencing some lingering soreness during a recent 24 km run, I decided to turn what was intended to be a 40 km run into a light 3 km jog to ensure I could recover and have the stamina to get through 40 km another day. The Samsung Health app was very helpful for me here. It kept me informed so I could allow my body to fully recover and prevent a potential injury or burnout.

Q. We’ve seen how a professional runner like yourself uses data to reach their goals. What advice would you give to someone who is just starting their running journey, and how can the Running Coach feature get them on the right track?

For beginners, it is very important to ease into things and be patient. You will build up stamina over time; it’s about knowing when to push yourself and when to stop. Not everyone has a personal coach with them to tailor a training plan. But the Running Coach feature provides customized programs to help even beginners train for a marathon. It tells you exactly what you should be doing during a run, motivates you and helps you improve. New runners are fortunate to have this fantastic technology which can guide them every step of the way. It’s also great for more experienced runners looking to take on a full marathon as it provides structured training programs.

Q. On World Health Day, the message is “Together for health, stand with science.” How does this relate to your own philosophy?

Science helps me throughout my training. I don’t know where I would be without the ability to track data on my Galaxy Watch8. I use that science to shape my daily routine. Science and technology help me perform at my best, and I believe they can do the same for anyone.

From a young runner in Uganda to a world-record holder, Kiplimo proves what happens when relentless dedication meets smart technology. Whether you are an elite athlete striving for the podium or someone taking your first steps towards a healthier lifestyle, Galaxy Watch8 provides actionable insights to help you build healthier habits and reach your goals.

After a life-changing snowmobile accident in 2008 that resulted in the loss of his left leg, Schultz didn’t give up on his passion to race on the snow. Dissatisfied with existing prosthetics, he built his own durable and versatile mechanical knee that allowed him to endure the competitive and rigorous training and dominate the world of para-sports with historic records of winning a gold and two silver medals during PyeongChang 2018 and Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games. He also started his company, giving other action-sport and high-impact athletes access to prosthetics specifically designed for the intensity of their sports, lowering the performance barrier for the para-athlete community.

Mike Schultz’s Victory Profile

Q: The Milano Cortina 2026 is your third, and perhaps your last, Paralympic Games as a professional snowboarder. How do you feel?

A: Every Paralympic Winter Games has its own feel and motivation towards it. I have two goals while here. The first: I am very driven to work my way to another couple podium finishes. My strategy has been to find a good balance of progress and risk management to achieve my peak here at the Paralympic Games, which has been working well so far as I won my last World Cup before traveling here. Also, since this will be my last games, the other, broader goal is to appreciate every moment and experience of Milano Cortina 2026, win or lose.

Q: How does technology support your training and recovery? Were there any specific tools or devices that made a difference in your training or performance?

A: Technology isn’t separate from performance; it’s integrated into it. We record almost every run-through on my Galaxy Z Fold7 and review it immediately, often in slow motion, to analyze timing and execution. That immediate feedback loop helps refine details before the next session.

Recovery is also non-negotiable. I track sleep, recovery metrics, and training load to make smarter decisions about when to push and when to pull back. I use my Galaxy devices to help me monitor everyday conditions so I can stay balanced through intense cycles.

Q: You’ve also inspired the world with your innovative and versatile prosthetic. How did you come up with the idea of inventing your own prosthetics and where did you get the inspiration?

A: My second passion in life is building and creating things in my workshop. It was a natural response for me to design a better prosthetic leg after I realized there were very limited options available. I used all the experiences I accrued up to that point to solve this problem. I took knowledge from my previous jobs in metal fabrication, my understanding of body mechanics from physical training and all the time I spent working on the suspension components on my motocross bikes and race snowmobiles. I was kind of the perfect person to work on this project.

Mike Schultz competes during the Para Snowboard Men’s Snowboard Cross SB-LL1 at Cortina Para Snowboard Park on March 07, 2026 in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)

Q: It’s not easy for an athlete to open up his own performance recipe to potential rivals. What was the motivation for you to disclose your prosthetic technology?

A: There are definitely moments when the “competitive athlete” in me questions this move, but I’m always thinking about the bigger picture working to progress whatever I’m involved in. Plus, it feels pretty good when you know you’re making a positive influence on the people around you.

Q: Mental training is important as much as physical training. How do you prepare mentally for each important competition?

A: Mental preparation starts long before arrival. Staying grounded and present is essential. Especially for global competitions like Paralympic Games, I try to focus on the snowboarding itself, and the things related specifically to that. When I’m on snow, I always have a purpose. There is a lot of extra noise and distraction with all that goes with traveling with a team and training/competing that can pull at you in different ways. Another way I cope with this is to pull up my favorite playlist on my Galaxy Z Fold7, pop in my Galaxy Buds3 Pro, and return to my own world to calm my thoughts.

Q: Returning to competition just seven months after the accident is not something that one can imagine easily, especially when it includes winning a silver medal. How did you manage to recover, both physically and mentally, in such a short amount of time?

A: I guess I used my sport and the creation of my prosthetics as a coping tool. I went through the typical physical recovery process that I’ve been through many times throughout my career, but of course this one was far more difficult both mentally and physically. I told myself early on that I was going to make something good come out of this bad situation. I put my energy into sport and recovery and focused on moving in a positive direction instead of focusing on the negative.

Mike Schultz is a Team Samsung Galaxy member for Milano Cortina 2026.

Q: You are also sharing your stories as a part of Team Samsung Galaxy, a group of athletes whose journey embodies “Openness.” What does “Openness” mean to you?

A: It’s always a plus when you partner with companies that align well with what you’re doing. I’ve used Samsung mobile devices for several years and they are integrated into my daily life, my training and preparation for my sport. Openness, to me, means there are no limits to my thoughts and goals. I am always open-minded in sport, business and life.  Anything is achievable if you’re motivated enough.

Q: You’ve announced that you will retire after Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games. What is your next “Monster Project?”

A: It’s hard to accept and say out loud that I’m retiring from snowboarding since it has been a huge priority in my life for the last 12 years. It has opened many opportunities in different ways. But this is the time for me to make a shift and put more effort into my company and have the ability to spend more time at home with my family. I look forward to new innovations within the prosthetics we build and to have some time to actually take a real vacation!

Q: Any message you’d like to share with your fellow Paralympians and future athletes?

A: Dream big, work hard and enjoy the RIDE! The harder you work for something, the better it feels when you achieve what you set out to do.

Redefining What’s Possible

At Milano Cortina 2026, Mike Schultz represents more than athletic excellence. He represents resilience, ingenuity and the belief that with an open mind, anything is possible. Through engineering, performance and athlete-led storytelling, Schultz embodies the spirit of the Paralympic Movement – challenging perceptions, opening new perspectives and redefining what performance looks like, both on the mountain and beyond it.

On March 4 in Barcelona, Samsung Electronics tuned out the noise of Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026 with a half-day, multi-sensory Sound Immersion event. The Sound Immersion event is an immersive meditation experience designed to awaken the five senses with Galaxy wearables. The invited guests, including journalists and content creators, were offered a restorative pause through guided meditations inspired by the Spanish way of living — delivered via the immersive audio of Galaxy Buds4 Pro and enhanced by real-time wellness insights from Galaxy Watch8.

W Barcelona, venue of the Sound Immersion event

 

The Galaxy S26 series, Galaxy Buds4 Pro and the Galaxy Watch8 series on display

Sound Immersion and Real-Time Wellness With Galaxy Buds4 Pro and Galaxy Watch8

Dr. Julie Smith — a clinical psychologist, author and content creator — led a multi-sensory experience demonstrating how sound shapes mood, focus and emotional connection within the Galaxy ecosystem.

 

“The senses are more than tools for getting through everyday life — they are an abundant source of calm and clarity,” she said. During the Sound Immersion event we explored how gentle sensory input, combined with the latest cutting-edge technology, can help us feel more present in everyday life. Sound delivered through Galaxy Buds4 Pro, designed to create tailored, immersive sound experiences, can become a steady anchor for reset, balance and recovery.”

 

Dr. Julie Smith leads a meditation session.

 

Participants wear Galaxy Buds4 Pro and Galaxy Watch8 while listening to meditation music.

 

• Sound and Sight Session: Attendees took part in a meditation session focused on sight and sound, listening to immersive soundscapes through Galaxy Buds4 Pro’s rich Hi-Fi audio. As they slowly observed the Barcelona skyline and relaxed to the sounds of nature, they fully engaged their senses. The ergonomic blade design and deeper bass from a wider woofer supported relaxation and focus. Galaxy Watch8 tracked stress levels before and after the session to highlight the impact of visual and auditory stimulation on well-being.

 

Participants take part in the Sound and Sight Session.

 

Stress levels measured using Galaxy Watch8

 

• Sound, Touch and Smell Session: Inspired by Barcelona’s beaches, citrus notes from a stone diffuser and the aroma of herbal tea filled the air alongside seashells and sand. Participants used enhanced adaptive Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) on Galaxy Buds4 Pro to reduce distractions and deepen focus. Throughout the session, Galaxy Watch8 monitored heart rate to provide real-time feedback on their level of calm.

 

 

Participants take part in the Sound, Touch and Smell Session.

 

Real-time heart rate monitored using Galaxy Watch8

 

• Sound, Taste and Touch Session: Attendees savored antioxidant-rich Mediterranean cuisine while listening to calming music delivered through Galaxy Buds4 Pro focusing on the flavors, aromas and textures of each dish. Meanwhile, Galaxy Watch8’s Antioxidant Index measured skin carotenoids to provide insight into antioxidant levels.

 

“Stepping away from the bustle of MWC with the Galaxy ecosystem and seeing the changes in my body made me realize how technology can effectively support rest in everyday life,” said an influencer who attended the event.

 

Participants take part in the Sound, Taste and Touch Session.

 

Antioxidant Index measured using Galaxy Watch8

A Global Wellness Journey From New York to Barcelona

The Barcelona event marked the latest stop in Samsung’s global wellness initiative. Since debuting at Galaxy Unpacked in New York last year, the series has expanded to the Vredestein 20km de Paris and Galaxy Unpacked 2026 in San Francisco, where a California-themed sound immersion led by sleep scientist Dr. Vanessa Hill offered moments of calm amid the launch-day bustle.

 

Participants take photos after the event.

 

By creating restorative pauses, the events illustrate how Galaxy innovations support well-being — even in crowded, noisy environments.

The Galaxy Watch8 series’ Running Coach feature offers personalized training for every skill level, helping runners — especially beginners and those who prefer to train solo — find joy in their progress.

After two years of running without a coach, Korean fitness influencer Narae Kim@healthy_naraekim felt her progress had plateaued. With Running Coach, she set out to push past that barrier. Samsung Newsroom followed her journey to see how it went.

Getting Started With Running Coach

Running without a goal can only take someone so far. For those unsure where to begin, the Galaxy Watch8 series offers an easy starting point. By simply slipping it on and heading outside, runners can use Running Coach in Samsung Health to set personalized goals.

The first step is the running level test. Before training begins, Running Coach evaluates a runner’s ability, assigns one of 10 levels and recommends a tailored program lasting three to five weeks.

▲ Running Coach evaluates each runner’s current ability before starting a program.

The method is simple — enter previous running experience into the Galaxy Watch8 series, then run as far as possible in 12 minutes. Beginners can start with walking or light jogging, gradually picking up the pace as guided by the watch. For the most accurate results, complete the test on a flat course and avoid overexertion the day before.

For her running level test, Kim ran at a steady pace for 12 minutes and entered her rating of perceived exertion (RPE).[1] The result placed her at level 6 — for runners aiming to complete a half marathon, with the specific goal of finishing 15 kilometers in under 1 hour, 42 minutes and 43 seconds. To reach that target, Running Coach created a five-week plan with 19 customized sessions.

Running Coach breaks down goals into 10 levels, guiding beginners toward a 5K and experienced runners toward a full marathon with step-by-step progression.

▲ Running Coach offers customized training plans for every level from beginners to marathoners.

Customized Programs To Match Any Level

One of the biggest questions in training is, “How far and how fast should I run today?” Running Coach provides a clear answer.

In the first week of her program, Kim opened Running Coach during an early morning visit to Hangang Park in Seoul. The day’s session was already laid out — no guesswork required.

Running Coach offers 15 to 19 customized sessions at each level. The plans call for three to four runs per week with recovery built in, making it easier to maintain a steady routine. After completing over 70% of a program, runners can test into the next level or retake the level test to update their training.

As a level 6 runner, Kim’s first session was a light 50-minute jog — manageable for her and a pleasant way to enjoy a crisp autumn morning.

▲ Sessions on Running Coach’s level 6 program

Running Coach in Samsung Health offers 160 programs, helping runners train systematically by level and goal. Instead of simply increasing intensity, the feature gradually adjusts difficulty to reduce injury risk and encourage lasting habits.

Beginners can build endurance with walking and low-intensity jogging, while skilled runners improve through sessions that incorporate high-intensity intervals, long slow distance[2] runs and fartlek training.[3] Each level’s program is designed to steadily build ability, track progress and deliver a sense of accomplishment.

Coaching in Real Time

Consistency of pace is one of the most important aspects of running, but keeping breathing and speed steady can be difficult. When Kim’s breathing faltered during one session, her Galaxy Watch8 gave real-time audio feedback such as “Slow down” and “Keep it up!” — like having a personal coach at her side.

Running Coach is more than an app that tracks distance and time. Powered by the Galaxy Watch8 series’ advanced sensors, the feature delivers real-time data in an intuitive way — helping runners understand their pace and fitness level as they train.

▲ Running Coach provides real-time feedback, helping runners adjust heart rate and pace.

During runs, the watch displays key metrics such as split pace, heart rate and left–right balance to help runners stay in rhythm and build proper habits. After each session, a detailed report is generated with the runner’s self-entered RPE to show how well the run matched their fitness level.

▲ Runners can view post-run metrics including maximum oxygen uptake and heart rate.

Most importantly, Running Coach provides scored feedback that makes progress easy to see at a glance. Beyond simple numbers, the feature creates a sense of growth and achievement through structured training — a strength that sets it apart.

Add Up Scores To Build a Routine

Running consistently requires not only stamina but also routine. Beyond Running Coach, the Galaxy Watch8 series offers features that help build lasting habits.

Each morning, Kim checks her Energy Score and Sleep Score in Samsung Health to choose a running session that matches her condition. Energy Score combines sleep, activity and heart rate data to measure physical and mental wellness on a scale of 0 to 100. The feature also offers daily recovery tips to balance exercise and rest.

As a professional who often works overtime, she has found this feature especially helpful for maintaining her program without overexertion.

▲ Energy Score and Sleep Score in Samsung Health

Google Gemini — available on a smartwatch for the first time with the Galaxy Watch8 series — takes the running experience even further. From her wrist, Kim asked, “Show me nearby flat running routes.” With Gemini’s help, she discovered new courses to explore.

Even indoors on the treadmill, she could simply say, “Convert my pace in minutes per kilometer to treadmill speed in kilometers per hour.” Gemini instantly delivers the result, making the feature just as useful for indoor training.

A Partner for the Long Run

After completing her five-week plan, Kim retook the running level test — and advanced to the next tier. The personalized training programs in Galaxy Watch8 series’ Running Coach had clearly elevated her performance.

“My goal is to complete a half marathon. Before using Running Coach, I often felt uncertain about pacing and adjusting intensity. But with its tailored programs and data-driven feedback, the quality and efficiency of my runs have clearly improved,” said Kim, reflecting on her experience. “What impressed me most was how it guides you step by step from the basics, almost like a textbook. I’d highly recommend it to beginner runners.”

“Running isn’t about heading out every single day — it’s more important to alternate training with recovery,” she added. For beginners, she recommended what she calls “leapfrog running,” an every-other-day approach. “The biggest motivation in running comes from seeing your own progress and achievements. With Running Coach, you can stay motivated to the very end — even when running solo.”

Consistency is the hardest part of running. But now, the Galaxy Watch8 series is a dependable partner on the wrist — one that tracks a runner’s rhythm and stays by their side. For anyone hoping to build the habit and sharpen their skills, why not start with the Galaxy Watch8 series’ Running Coach?

Purchase the Galaxy Watch8 series today:

• Galaxy Watch8: https://www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch8-44mm-silver-bluetooth-sm-l330nzsaxme/
• Galaxy Watch8 Classic: https://www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch8-classic-46mm-black-bluetooth-sm-l500nzkaxme/
• Galaxy Watch Ultra: https://www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch-ultra-2025-47mm-titanium-blue-lte-sm-l705fzb1xme/

[1] Long slow distance is a training method builds endurance and cardiovascular strength by running long distances at a slow pace.

[2] Fartlek, Swedish for “speed play,” is a flexible training method that alternates faster running with slower jogging without fixed intervals.

[3] Rating of perceived exertion is a scale used to subjectively measure the intensity of physical activity.

Antioxidants play a key role in this process, helping neutralize free radicals and protect the body from oxidative stress. The Galaxy Watch8 series debuts Antioxidant Index — the first smartwatch feature to measure the body’s antioxidant status and support more effective health monitoring.

Samsung Newsroom spoke with Hyojee Joung — President of the Korean Nutrition Society and professor at Seoul National University (SNU), who participated in developing and validating the new feature — about this breakthrough and the importance of antioxidant care.

▲ Hyojee Joung

Why Antioxidant Care Matters

“Why do I feel tired so easily?”

Free radicals are natural byproducts of energy production in the body, but unhealthy habits can cause them to build up. “Tobacco use, alcohol consumption, poor diet, UV exposure and stress drive overproduction — triggering oxidative stress and accelerating aging,” said Joung.

Persistent exhaustion may signal excess free radicals in the body. “They can weaken immunity, cause fatigue and speed up visible signs of aging such as wrinkles or pigmentation,” Joung explained. “As oxidative stress accumulates, the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and certain cancers increases — making antioxidant management essential.”

▲ Excessive free radicals from an unhealthy lifestyle can raise the risk of chronic disease.

“Antioxidant capacity isn’t a matter of youth or fitness — it requires consistent care throughout life,” Joung emphasized, noting that daily fruit and vegetable intake is the easiest and most effective place to start.

Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants such as carotenoids and vitamins C and E. Because the body’s natural production of antioxidant enzymes declines with age, sufficient dietary antioxidant intake provides the foundation for sustainable health.

However, for most people, it’s not easy to objectively assess whether their everyday diet is truly balanced. The Galaxy Watch8 series’ Antioxidant Index was developed to address this challenge.

Tracking Antioxidant Levels With Galaxy Watch8 Series

“Is my diet healthy enough?”

For anyone wondering how healthy their diet is, Samsung Health now offers a quick answer. Using rear sensors, the Galaxy Watch8 series measures an Antioxidant Index — based on carotenoid levels in the skin — to assess fruit and vegetable intake within seconds.

“Carotenoids are the red, yellow and green pigments in fruits and vegetables,” said Joung. “Because the human body cannot produce them, carotenoid levels reflect dietary intake.”

The Galaxy Watch8 series uses a reflection spectroscopy sensor. When light of a specific wavelength shines on the skin, carotenoids absorb some and reflect the rest. By analyzing the reflected light, the device estimates carotenoid levels.

Previously, measuring antioxidant levels required blood samples and complex laboratory procedures. Now, users can simply place a thumb on the back sensor for five seconds to see instant results. Based on the World Health Organization’s (WHO) daily recommendation of 400 grams of fruits and vegetables, results appear as:

• Very low – Less than 50% of the recommended intake
• Low – 50% to less than 100% of the recommended intake
• Adequate – 100% or more of the recommended intake

▲ Joung measures her Antioxidant Index with Galaxy Watch8 Classic.

Joung explained that although Antioxidant Index does not represent the body’s full antioxidant capacity, it serves as a practical and meaningful indicator of daily antioxidant status by reflecting carotenoid intake from fruits and vegetables — major sources that help strengthen the body’s antioxidant system.

Antioxidant Index: A Reliable and Validated Health Indicator

“How should I respond to my Antioxidant Index reading?”

The Galaxy Watch8 series is the first smartwatch to measure antioxidant levels — a breakthrough built on years of research. Samsung began collaborating with Joung and her team in 2018 to explore how this capability could be applied to wearables.

A dietary intervention study conducted by the Graduate School of Public Health at SNU confirmed that skin carotenoid levels reliably indicate fruit and vegetable intake. “Over six weeks, we provided meals with varying carotenoid content to 80 participants and observed their skin carotenoid levels increased within one to two weeks,” Joung said.

▲ Results from a dietary intervention study with 80 participants at SNU

When users measure their Antioxidant Index, the Samsung Health app provides feedback such as “Have one more tomato today” or “Try 50 grams of pumpkin.” These recommendations are based on proposals from Joung’s team. “It’s important to give dietary guidance in language users can easily understand,” she explained. “We created the foundational data that trained an algorithm to adapt suggestions to individual preferences.”

The research team plans to keep refining the feature to deliver more accurate insights and support more effective antioxidant management.

Tips for Using Antioxidant Index

 Joung shared four tips for making the most of the Galaxy Watch8 series’ Antioxidant Index.

① Consistency is key — don’t worry about daily fluctuations.

② Measure at the same time, with the same finger.

③ Check results alongside other Samsung Health indicators.

④ Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables.

Small Steps, Big Changes

 “Whenever I meet someone, I have them try Antioxidant Index. It’s fun to see their surprise at how quickly the results appear,” said Joung, an active Galaxy Watch8 Classic user. “Being able to check instantly is a huge advantage.”

“Many people try to manage antioxidants for disease prevention and healthy aging, but there hasn’t been a clear way to track progress,” she continued. “Antioxidant Index not only shows whether fruit and vegetable intake is sufficient but also raises awareness of the importance of antioxidants — and that alone is meaningful.”

“What matters is consistency, not perfection. Even small steps, like adding one serving of fruits or vegetables to your meal, can create meaningful change over time,” Joung emphasized. “I’m truly happy to see such an innovative feature come to life before my retirement.”

Antioxidant Index delivers results in just five seconds — a simple step toward better health. In the second part of this series, Samsung Newsroom will hear from one of the Galaxy Watch8 series’ developers who helped make this groundbreaking feature possible.

Purchase the Galaxy Watch8 series today:

• Galaxy Watch8: https://www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch8-44mm-silver-bluetooth-sm-l330nzsaxme/
• Galaxy Watch8 Classic: https://www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch8-classic-46mm-black-bluetooth-sm-l500nzkaxme/
• Galaxy Watch Ultra: https://www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch-ultra-2025-47mm-titanium-blue-lte-sm-l705fzb1xme/

Samsung’s Antioxidant Index on Galaxy Watch8 transforms what once seemed like science fiction into everyday technology. In five seconds, a thumb scan returns precise carotenoid levels – the industry’s first measurable nutrition index.

By miniaturizing lab-grade sensor technology with exceptional accuracy, it turns your diet into an actionable metric for healthier aging. Establishing this new benchmark in wearable health tracking required years of intensive R&D, countless prototypes and unwavering grit.

Breaking New Ground in Nutrition Tracking

Back in 2018, Samsung saw a critical gap in wearables: we could count every step and calorie, yet there was no simple way to measure how our diet impacted our health. Deeper nutritional insights were locked behind expensive and time-consuming lab tests, out of reach for many people.

As people live longer, the focus is shifting from simply increasing lifespan to improving the quality of those additional years.

“In this context, antioxidation naturally gains attention as a method to slow down aging,” explains Dr. Hyojee Joung, a Seoul National University[1] public health nutrition expert who guided parts of the tech’s development. “If antioxidant management is neglected, Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) accumulate in the body, increasing the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer.”

This realization made antioxidants the cornerstone of Samsung’s mission. Engineers and scientists focused on carotenoids – key antioxidants and proven indicators of fruit and vegetable intake – to create a device small enough to sit on your wrist, yet powerful enough to turn complex antioxidant data into simple, actionable health insights for everyone.

1. The first prototype of the spectroscopy-based antioxidant sensor. 2. A clinical-ready version of the sensor. 3. A prototype designed for use in skincare products.

Challenge #1: How to Shrink the Lab-Grade Sensor Technology

From day one, the dream of a nutrition-tracking wearable hit an immediate snag: traditional methods for measuring carotenoid levels like Raman spectroscopy are laser-based, non-invasive and precise, but rely on bulky machines that are far from wearable. So the team’s first mission was to shrink the lab-grade tech into a coin-sized sensor.

After seven years of rigorous testing and optimizing since the first prototype, the team developed the miniaturized sensor, a groundbreaking tech that combines multi-wavelength LEDs with a custom photodetector array to provide accurate carotenoid readings in a compact design.

“Our breakthrough was integrating reflectance spectroscopy with LEDs, which allowed us to miniaturize the technology while maintaining a high level of accuracy,” explains Jinyoung Park, a developer from Digital Health team at Samsung Electronics.

Antioxidant sensor’s LED-PD sensor modules.

Unlike lasers, which emit a sharp, narrow wavelength, LEDs emit a broader wavelength range. By analyzing how much light is absorbed by the skin at multiple wavelengths through photodiodes,[2] the watch estimates carotenoid levels with impressive accuracy. The advanced algorithms that continuously calibrate in real-time also support precision while delivering personalized insights to each user.

The LED-PD Watch prototype testbed.

Challenge #2: How to Ensure the Tech Reaches Everyone

Creating a coin-sized carotenoid sensor was a major milestone, but the next challenge was ensuring it could work accurately and reliably across diverse skin types, making it truly accessible to everyone.

To overcome challenges like melanin interference in darker skin tones, Samsung’s engineers opted to use the fingertip for measurements since it has the least melanin across all ethnic groups. They also added simple tweaks, like light fingertip pressure during scans, which helps temporarily reduce blood flow and hemoglobin interference, making the results more accurate.

Extensive trials conducted at Samsung Medical Center[3] included hundreds of participants, validating the sensor’s performance. This paved the way for a feature that seamlessly transitioned from the lab to users worldwide, offering an inclusive solution designed for everyday life.

How It Works

Carotenoids are the natural red, yellow and green pigments found in fruits and vegetables. Since our bodies can’t produce carotenoids on their own, the levels stored in the body offer a clear snapshot of how much fruit and vegetables someone has been eating.

This is where your Antioxidant Index score comes in, reflecting your carotenoid levels based on these categories:

• Very low: Less than 50% of the daily WHO recommendation of 400g per day.
• Low: Between 50%–100%.
• Optimal: 100% or more.

“Skin carotenoids metabolize and accumulate in tissues gradually, so short-term changes in fruit and vegetable intake won’t immediately appear in the score,” explains Dr. Hyojee Joung. “Our research shows that increased carotenoid intake leads to a meaningful rise in skin carotenoid levels after about one to two weeks, making the Index a valuable tool for tracking consistent, long-term dietary habits.”

Lifestyle factors like sleep quality, stress levels, and physical activity also influence the Index, making it a well-rounded indicator of overall health. Paired with other Galaxy Watch8 features like sleep coaching, activity tracking and Vascular Load monitoring, the Antioxidant Index offers a holistic view of your well-being, empowering smarter decisions for healthier aging.

The Antioxidant Index feature measures carotenoid levels in seconds with the sensor on the back of the Galaxy Watch8 and provides additional nutritional insights on paired Galaxy smartphones.

Your Health, Reimagined

“New wearable sensors can play a role in helping people build healthy eating habits by tracking and encouraging sufficient daily intake of fruits and vegetables,” says Professor Yoonho Choi from Samsung Medical Center. “Over time, this simple practice can help prevent some cancers and other age-related diseases, making it a very effective way to support long-term health.”

Antioxidants are an emerging area of focus, but research has been limited due to the challenges of accurate measurement. Galaxy Watch8’s Antioxidant Index goes beyond current industry developments and delivers meaningful innovation.

By helping users identify risks early and take proactive steps towards better health, Samsung is paving the way for a smarter, more proactive approach to wellness and redefining the role of wearables in preventative healthcare.

Purchase the Galaxy Watch8 series today:

Galaxy Watch8: https://www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch8-44mm-silver-bluetooth-sm-l330nzsaxme/

Galaxy Watch8 Classic: https://www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch8-classic-46mm-black-bluetooth-sm-l500nzkaxme/

Galaxy Watch Ultra: https://www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch-ultra-2025-47mm-titanium-blue-lte-sm-l705fzb1xme/

[1] Samsung Medical Center in Seoul, South Korea, is a leading medical institution known for its patient-centered care, advanced medical technologies, and specialized centers such as the Comprehensive Cancer and Proton Therapy Centers.

[2] Photodiodes are semiconductor devices that convert light into electrical signals.

[3] Seoul National University is a leading academic institution in South Korea.