Samsung Releases Updates For Galaxy Watch, Galaxy Watch Active: What's New?

Samsung has released updates for its earlier-generation watches, the Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Watch Active. The new update brings some of the Galaxy Watch Active2's features to the older watches, greatly improving the user experience.

Here's a quick look at what the new update brings to the Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Watch Active, as per Samsung.

Enhanced Samsung Health features

The new update will allow users to keep track of their fitness goals using the Daily Active feature. They can also use their smartwatches to track their lap times when running or cycling.

The update also expands the Galaxy Watch's heart monitoring suite and adds a new Low Heart Rate Alert feature. The Galaxy Watch will not alert users if their heart rate goes low.

New Bixby features

Samsung also added a few new features to Bixby. Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Watch Active users can use Bixby Voice to start exercise routines, determine time differences between differet places, and take control of the devices and appliances in the SmartThings ecosystem.

More Customization options

The new update adds a slew of customization options Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Watch Active users will enjoy. Users will be given more freedom to customize their watch faces to their liking. The update also brings the My Style feature to the Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Watch Active.

Samsung said that users across all Galaxy Watch models will now have access to 24 new sub-dials and complications. These new features come as an addition to the 17 that are already available for use, and will provide users with the information they need, when they need it, in a way that they like.

Improved User experience

The new update is designed to streamline the Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Watch Active user experience. Icons for in-use apps, for example, have been moved to the bottom of the screen or watch face, allowing for easy access regardless of the task that's currently running, like an outgoing call. The improved UX also includes a clearer user interface and easier user interaction.

Galaxy Watch Active users will even get a Touch Bezel similar to the one on the Galaxy Watch Active2. This new Touch Bezel will allow users to navigate the watch using finger swipe actions.

Android Police noted that the update, which brings these features and more, weighs 117.18MB for the Galaxy Watch and 91.1MB for the Galaxy Watch Active. The update is being released to the global market gradually; those who can't download it yet are advised to wait until the update arrives.