Galaxy Watch 2

What we know, and what we want.

Samsung released the Galaxy Watch Active 2 in September 2019 and it’s already predicted that there’ll be successor in 2020.

Though the Active 2 has proved popular, nothing stands still in smartwatch tech. Consequently, buyers are already getting itchy feet and expecting an update.

Unfortunately, the internet rumour mill hasn’t been able to shed too much light on what features may be coming down the line. However, we’ve been party to a few interesting leaks about the Galaxy Watch 2. Some features may even attract potential Apple Watch buyers.

So, it’s our guess that, based on the cost of its predecessor, Samsung’s flagship watch price will be in the ballpark of $350 / £280.

The release date is unknown. It was thought strange that Samsung would release the next Galaxy Watch Active before the Galaxy Watch, which was (and still is) older. This certainly brings up the question of the development of the Galaxy Watch 2 at all. Even more so when one considers that the Galaxy Watch Active 2 comes with a leather strap option. This takes the look to a new, stylish level and may be an option meant to placate those demanding a Galaxy Watch 2.

What do the rumours say?

It’s thought that the design will come in two sizes. Similarly, with most smartwatches, in a 40mm and slightly larger 44mm.

This is because the original came in two sizes, but those were 42mm and 46mm. It’s thought that Samsung might want to slim down the next Galaxy Watch as there were some comments about it being chunky.

The Galaxy Watch Active 2 comes in 40mm and 44mm so this might be what sparked the talk, but also as this sizing would compete with the Apple Watch. There’s a report that the codename for the build is called ‘Renaissance’ – which could mean revival – so that might be a hint of some big changes ahead.

That sums up the rumours. There are some guesses that can be made off the back of what was seen in the Galaxy Watch Active 2, though.

A new feature on the Active 2 was the introduction of an electrocardiogram (ECG). It enables the wearer to monitor their heart rhythm and will alert them of any potential issues. Potentially life-saving. The Series 4 Apple Watch does this too. So, it wouldn’t be an earth-shattering surprise to see this on the Galaxy Watch 2.

The Active 2 has a digital rotating bezel. This feature is also rumoured for the eagerly awaited Google Pixel Watch. It replaces the physical bezel on the predecessor and is assumed to be part of the latest design, which also helps to slim the design down.

Desired features

There are some things users want on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 2:

Better third-party app offering

The Galaxy Watch operating system is Tizen, which is good but could play better with others. WatchOS and WearOS are much more accessible to other apps and Samsung users would like to see some of the bigger name apps available.

ECG

This is something the Series 4 and 5 Apple Watch can boast. The addition of this feature has gone down extremely well with users as a potentially life-saving function that could detect heart issues.

It would be a major technical advance for the Galaxy Watch 2.

Improved stress tracking

This is offered on the current Galaxy Watch but it needs development. It’s a manual process rather than automatic. The accuracy leaves something to be desired, as the data comes purely from the heart rate monitor.

Better Bixby experience

Again, thanks to Tizen, users get lumped with Bixby and not Google Assistant. Bixby simply doesn’t compete with Alexa or Siri either. Buyers want to see improved digital assistance on the Galaxy Watch 2.

Wireless charging

Nowadays a proprietary charger is a huge disadvantage on any smartwatch. It doesn’t bode well for people who get caught short without their charger. Samsung lovers are crying out for a wireless charging option. When the battery dies, you’re more likely to find another you can use for a top-up.