Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has announced the availability of the One UI 8 Watch update^[1] for Galaxy Watch Ultra, unlocking the motivational health features and refined, intuitive interface unveiled with the new Galaxy Watch8 series to a wider range of Galaxy users. With the update, Galaxy Watch Ultra users now have access to powerful tools^[2]  like Running Coach, Vascular Load, Antioxidant Index, Bedtime Guidance, and High Stress Alert – all designed to help users build healthier habits through motivational insights.

With One UI 8 Watch, the user interface is optimised to deliver essential information at a glance on a smartwatch-sized screen. Multi-Info Tiles pull everything from health metrics to weather into a customisable view, delivering the information users need, exactly when they need it. Now Bar^[3]  ensures that whatever users are working on is always accessible. These One UI 8 Watch features integrate seamlessly with Galaxy Watch Ultra’s robust performance and durability.

Galaxy Watch Ultra remains the ultimate wearable companion for those who love outdoor adventure, all available in four stunning titanium finishes – including the newly introduced Titanium Blue. Meanwhile, Galaxy Watch8 is designed for everyday wellness with comfort and style, while Galaxy Watch8 Classic offers timeless sophistication paired with advanced functionality. The Galaxy Watch8, Galaxy Watch8 Classic and Galaxy Watch Ultra in Titanium Blue are available now for purchase at Samsung.com and in stores.

For more details about the Galaxy Watch Ultra, visit https://www.samsung.com/galaxy-watch/.

^[1]Terms & Conditions apply. Offer excludes monitors and air conditioners. One UI 8 Watch update will be progressively rolled out to previous Galaxy Watch models. All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice.

^[2]Terms & Conditions apply. Offer excludes monitors and air conditioners. Availability and features may vary depending on market, model and the smartphone paired; visit https://www.samsungmobilepress.com/feature-stories/great-health-can-happen-overnight-with-galaxy-watch for details. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment of any medical condition. The result is for your personal reference only. Please consult a medical professional for advice.

^[3]Terms & Conditions apply. Offer excludes monitors and air conditioners. Availability of functions supported within the apps may vary by market. Some functional widgets may require a network connection and/or Samsung Account login.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. and Stanford University today jointly announced a research project with Stanford Medicine to initiate an innovative health solution based on Samsung’s obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) feature^[i] which has received De Novo — the first of its kind authorization — by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In recognition of World Health Day, this project underscores the importance of sleep in overall health by taking further steps in proactive care, beginning with a pioneering study.

Led by professor Robson Capasso as principal investigator and professor Clete Kushida as co-principal investigator, the joint study is designed to explore potential ways to further enhance Samsung’s Sleep Apnea feature to better support sleep health through timely interventions. Looking ahead, efforts will focus on going beyond detection by leveraging AI technology for daily monitoring to sleep apnea management, empowering users with the best possible sleep tools to improve their health.

Samsung’s Sleep Apnea feature on the Galaxy Watch^[ii]., which detects signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, previously received authorization by the US FDA following approval by Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS). With its latest approval by Brazil’s National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA), the feature will become available to users in Brazil in late April, increasing availability to 29 markets globally. The Sleep Apnea feature will continue to be expanded to more countries around the world, allowing more people to proactively spot symptoms earlier, which help prevent further long-term OSA health-related complications.

“The ethical, equitable and evidence-based use of technology, after its validation through research is crucial in developing new approaches to detection and management of sleep apnea and other serious sleep-related health conditions,” said Robson Capasso, MD, FAASM, Chief of Sleep Surgery, Professor of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, former Associate Dean of Research, Stanford University School of Medicine. “We are excited about this groundbreaking collaboration and proud to be initiating a study utilizing smartwatches, a friendly and commonly accepted wearable”

“This collaboration with Stanford Medicine will combine our deep technological expertise with Stanford’s leading research capabilities to unlock new innovation in preventive care,” said Dr. Hon Pak, Senior Vice President and Head of the Digital Health Team, Mobile eXperience Business, Samsung Electronics. “Together, we aim to move beyond screening to also provide more meaningful daily support that helps people better understand and manage their sleep health.”

^[i] The Sleep Apnea feature is an over-the-counter (OTC), software-only, mobile medical application operating on a compatible Samsung Galaxy Watch and Phone. This feature is intended to detect signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in the form of significant breathing disruptions in adult users 22 years and older, over a two-night monitoring period. It is intended for on demand use. This feature is not intended for users who have previously been diagnosed with sleep apnea. Users should not use this feature to replace traditional methods of diagnosis and treatment by a qualified clinician. The data provided by this device is also not intended to assist clinicians in diagnosing sleep disorders.

^[ii] Availability may vary by market, carrier, model, or a paired smartphone. Available on Galaxy Watch4 series and later models. The watch requires the Wear OS 5.0 version or later and must be paired with a Samsung Galaxy smartphone with Android 12.0 or later.

Samsung Newsroom unboxed the Galaxy Ring, designed to enhance both style and convenience in everyday life.

A Journey That Begins With Fine Packaging

The Galaxy Ring’s innovative form factor is reflected in its thoughtfully crafted packaging. Constructed in a clamshell design, the packaging resembles a jewelry box, thereby accentuating the wearable’s unique form. Opening the box unveils a transparent charging case with LED lighting — evoking the feeling of revealing a precious gem.

Consistent with the packaging, the charging case adopts a design similar to that of a jewelry box as well. Once opened, the charging case reveals the Galaxy Ring with its titanium frame and sleek curved body, subtly illuminated by LED lighting.

The Galaxy Ring is available in three colours — Titanium Black, Titanium Silver and Titanium Gold — and comes in nine ring sizes from size 8 to 15. This range allows users to select the perfect combination of colour and fit, tailored to their personal style and size.

▲ The Galaxy Ring, alongside its packaging, charging case and a USB Type-C cable

Sophisticated Design Offering Comfort All Week Long

To provide continuous support and help users stay on track with their health, the Galaxy Ring is equipped with a powerful battery that lasts up to seven days on a single charge.¹ The battery level and charging status can be easily monitored through the LED lighting in the charging case.

The Galaxy Ring’s main appeal lies in its lightweight and comfortable fit. Weighing between 2.3 grams (size 5) and 3 grams (size 13),² the device’s sleek, slim design creates an effortless wearing experience that is so comfortable users might forget they have anything on.

▲ The Galaxy Ring boasts a sleek, lightweight design.

The Galaxy Ring is exceptionally durable, thanks to its concave design and Titanium Grade 5 finish that resists everyday scratches and wear.³ The device is also 10 ATM water resistant,⁴ allowing it to withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 100 metres. This means the Galaxy Ring can continue to monitor users’ health while they wash their hands, take a shower or engage in strenuous activities without worrying about damaging the device.

Advanced Sensors for Comprehensive Health Monitoring

▲ The Galaxy Ring features three state-of-the-art sensors.

The Galaxy Ring’s ability to deliver a comprehensive range of health information, from sleep quality to daily activities, is rooted in its advanced built-in sensors. With a skin temperature sensor, heart rate monitor sensor and accelerometer, the Galaxy Ring’s trio of state-of-the-art sensors encircle the user’s finger — meticulously tracking data that is subsequently analysed by Galaxy AI to provide personalised health insights. Users can access detailed health information and insights on the Samsung Health app.

Quick and Easy Pairing With Galaxy Smartphones

To use the Galaxy Ring, it must first be paired with a Galaxy smartphone. This process is very straightforward. When the case is opened, the device automatically enters pairing mode. Users can follow the instructions on their Galaxy smartphone to complete the connection.

To pair manually, place the Galaxy Ring in the case and press the multipurpose button for at least three seconds to activate pairing mode.

▲ A long press (for three seconds) on the multipurpose button will manually activate pairing mode. A short press will display the battery level via an LED light.

The Galaxy Ring can be worn on the finger once paired, and users can begin personalising and monitoring their health care right away.

▲ The initial setup screen for the Galaxy Ring when pairing showcases signature digital health features like Energy Score, sleep analysis, Wellness Tips and Heart Rate Alert.

For accurate data tracking, the device should be worn with the protruding line that indicates the sensor’s direction facing the palm. The Galaxy Ring can be worn on any finger, but it is recommended that users try the sizing kit⁵ rings for a day or more to find out which finger suits them best.

▲ The Galaxy Ring worn correctly, with the protruding line facing the palm.

In addition to health management, the Galaxy Ring also offers a handy smartphone control feature with just a simple gesture of the fingers. When wearing the device, users can double pinch via Gestures to take a photo or turn off an alarm on a connected Galaxy smartphone.⁶

▲ The Galaxy Ring’s smartphone control feature lets users take a photo or turn off an alarm by double-pinching their thumb and index finger together.

The Galaxy Ring combines powerful performance and a sleek design for a refined and comfortable wearable experience. Reflecting Samsung’s commitment to advancing user convenience and health monitoring, the Galaxy Ring invites users to embark on a new journey towards healthier living. The Galaxy Ring is available at Samsung stores, online, the Samsung Shop App, as well as participating retailers and operators, at a recommended retail price of R7,999⁷. Until 30 April 2025, you can get 20% off the Galaxy Ring when you buy any Galaxy S25 smartphone.

^[1] Based on the battery life of a size 13 product. Battery life will vary depending on ring size.
^[2] Weight of Galaxy Ring varies by size. Size 5 Galaxy Ring is 2.3g, size 6 Galaxy Ring is 2.4g, size 7 Galaxy Ring is 2.4g, size 8 Galaxy Ring is 2.6g, size 9 Galaxy Ring is 2.7g, size 10 Galaxy Ring is 2.8g, size 11 Galaxy Ring is 3.0g, size 12 Galaxy Ring is 3.0g, and size 13 Galaxy Ring is 3.0g.
^[3] Titanium is only applied on Galaxy Ring device frame.
^[4] ATM stands for the standard atmosphere, a unit of air pressure. In theory, one ATM means that the product is waterproof to a depth of 10 metres under water.
^[5] One Sizing Kit is available free of charge upon purchasing the Galaxy Ring. Only one Sizing Kit is provided per order number. Sample rings included in the Galaxy Ring Sizing Kit are inoperable and for measuring ring size only. Wearing the ring for at least 24 hours is recommended to test the ring.
^[6] The double-pinch feature with the thumb and index finger is only able to take photos and turn off alarms on Galaxy Rings paired with Samsung Galaxy smartphones running on One UI 6.1.1 or later.

^[7] Recommended Retail Price Only. Prices may vary per retailer.

With over 25 years of experience in the medical field and now as Head of Digital Health team at Samsung Electronics, I spend a lot of time contemplating how technology can truly drive progress in healthcare, rather than being just another innovation for innovation’s sake. That’s why I’m very excited about AI as it offers new ways to address many of society’s health problems by simplifying complexity and at scale.

In our ongoing work to reimagine healthcare, Samsung is leveraging advanced AI algorithms and extensive technical expertise to develop solutions like Energy Score. This feature quantifies physical and mental energy levels through multiple health indicators including sleep, heart health and physical activity. Our vision is to include more comprehensive metrics like nutrition, mental health, and additional mobile usage patterns to provide a holistic view of users’ health status, powered by AI.

AI holds great promise for early disease prevention through analysing patterns and behaviours, detecting abnormalities, and even predicting potential health issues. By combining our long-standing sensor innovations with AI leadership, we aim to elevate our capabilities in preventing diseases, beyond sleep apnea and expanding to cardio-metabolic conditions. In particular, blood glucose is a big area of focus for us, and Samsung has been working to develop a sensor algorithm that predicts early signs of diabetes – along with non-invasive blood glucose monitoring technology and continuous glucose monitoring-integrated nutrition coaching.

Our goal is to support proactive health management, lowering healthcare burdens on individuals, families and communities at large. I strongly believe that AI will revolutionise the digital health industry and simplify the wellness journey for everyone. As a global tech leader, Samsung is uniquely equipped to make this a reality with our mix of technology innovations and a growing ecosystem of partners.

Today, more than ever, people are defining their own wellness goals. From looking to stay fit or gaining more muscle mass, achieving better sleep, or caring for personal or family physical and mental health issues, everyone’s goals for better health look different. But one thing is common, the daily management and path towards these goals can be complicated and challenging, and most importantly, it is defined by you.

That’s why at Samsung, we’re working to empower more people to manage their health – and those they care for – their way, with a comprehensive, yet simplified approach to everyday wellness. Our vision is to improve the health of billions through connected care centred around the home by connecting devices, services and people – like only Samsung can.

Simplifying Wellness by Uniting Scattered Health Data

One of the biggest challenges the healthcare industry is facing today is fragmented data and how to bring it all together. Samsung is uniquely positioned to undertake this with one of the largest, most diverse connected device ecosystems. Now with Samsung Health, we’re connecting different devices and partner solutions within one cohesive platform, making it simpler to track health conditions on a Galaxy wearable.

By collecting data through advanced sensor technology, you’ll receive a deeper, more holistic understanding of your health with improved insights and integrated third-party health data. And as always, your personal data on the Galaxy devices remains secure thanks to the Samsung Knox security platform.

Turning Data into Meaningful Insights with the Transformative Power of AI

Like any good data model, how you leverage the information is key. In this new mobile era of AI, Samsung is focused on remaining at the forefront of maximising information. With the intelligence of AI, the most transformative technology of the century, users will receive more personalised insights and tailored health experiences through Samsung Health’s extensive global dataset from 64M monthly active users. And while every user’s wellness journey is unique, we believe they all start in the same way – by gaining a deeper understanding of their health through more comprehensive insights, spanning the longest time possible. This is why we’ve continued to build a portfolio of tools that help track their health conveniently, continuously and accurately.

The Future of Wellness is at Your Fingers

Samsung recognises that gaining a deep understanding of one’s personal health can result in significant long-term wellness benefits for our users. As we look to deliver on our vision of providing users with a comprehensive yet simplified approach to everyday wellness, we realise choice is a big factor. Obtaining accurate, detailed and advanced information on personal health conditions is the foundation of helping better track and action change.

Mobile devices will become the primary access point for AI, and through Samsung Galaxy – with our broad and comprehensive product portfolio, heritage of innovation, and philosophy of open collaboration – we’re well positioned to accelerate its global expansion.

Samsung will continue to enrich and expand Galaxy AI experiences across our product categories and collaborations to bring forward mobile experiences that defy imagination. Through the power of intelligence, partnerships and advanced technology, we’re helping more people better understand themselves and make the small changes that have a big impact, every day. With this, the power of Galaxy AI, and many more exciting health and wellness solutions and updates on the horizon, we can’t wait for you to see what we have in store.

¹ My Vitality Score will be made available on Samsung Health within 2024. Availability may vary by market, carrier, or wearable device. Features are intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. The measurements are for your personal reference only. Please consult a medical professional for advice.
² Booster Card will be made available on Samsung Health within 2024. Availability may vary by market, carrier or wearable device.