Today, Samsung teased us again with the One UI Watch 5 update for older Galaxy smartwatches. The update debuted alongside the Galaxy Watch 6 series announced on July 26 at Unpacked in Seoul, but Samsung reminded us that it hasn't forgotten about the Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 5 series.
Samsung announced it wants to bring One UI 5.1.1 to older Galaxy foldable phones and tablets. The company took this opportunity to remind customers that it's following a similar strategy for One UI Watch 5 and older Galaxy smartwatches, particularly those released in 2022 and 2021.
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Sleep insights, more Pro tools, and better camera controls
One UI Watch 5 is almost all about improving the health and fitness-tracking experience. But it also introduces new watch faces and better camera controls for connected smartphones.
Sleep tracking is improved in One UI Watch 5 with deeper insights and better integration with connected home devices. Fitness enthusiasts get personalized heart rate zones.
And for a more connected ecosystem, the update will add a dedicated quick camera access software button to the Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 5 lineups, which will allow users to quickly launch the Camera app on connected phones.
Exactly when Samsung will release One UI Watch 5 for older smartwatch models is unclear, but with One UI Watch 5 already in beta testing in select markets, the global rollout of the update could begin before the end of August. If you can't wait and are willing to upgrade your wearable, you can already experience One UI Watch 5 if you buy the Galaxy Watch 6.
It's probably not a wise idea to upgrade if all you're only looking for is quicker access to One UI Watch 5, unless you find a great trade-in deal. But if you're hoping for a hardware upgrade, the newer Samsung smartwatches feature bigger and brighter screens, more RAM, a faster SoC, and a more streamlined design with thinner bezels. The Galaxy Watch 6 Classic also brings back the physical rotating bezel.
