The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, a pivotal device that contributed to the resurgence of Wear OS, is receiving its final major update. This update brings Wear OS 6 and One UI 8 Watch to users after a considerable wait. It signifies the end of an era for a smartwatch that helped redefine the landscape, while simultaneously breathing new life into it with performance enhancements and new features.
The rollout has commenced in South Korea for the Wi-Fi variant, requiring a substantial download exceeding 1GB. Global availability is anticipated in the coming weeks. Owners of the LTE model may need to wait slightly longer for the update to become available for their devices.
Based on Android 16, Wear OS 6 aims to deliver a smoother and more responsive experience on the Galaxy Watch 4. Users can expect improved system animations and enhanced overall performance, revitalizing the device’s user experience.
Samsung’s One UI 8 Watch introduces its own set of enhancements. These include the Now Bar, which offers quick access to music playback and workout controls. It also features refreshed watch faces and more informative tiles, mirroring the functionality of the Now Bar found on Galaxy phones running One UI 8.
New Health Features
One UI 8 Watch also introduces a suite of new health features, such as Bedtime Guidance, Vascular Load, Running Coach, and Antioxidant Index. As noted by Android Police, these new health features promise a more comprehensive approach to wellness tracking. However, due to hardware limitations, not all of these features will be available on the Galaxy Watch 4.
The Galaxy Watch 4 played a crucial role in revitalizing Wear OS, a collaborative effort between Google and Samsung to challenge Apple’s dominance in the smartwatch market. Its success paved the way for subsequent generations and solidified Wear OS as a viable alternative.
With Google promising major underlying optimizations, Wear OS 6 and One UI 8 Watch should improve the overall experience of using the Watch 4. It’s a fitting send-off for a device that played a crucial role in shaping the modern smartwatch landscape.
This update is likely the last major one for the Galaxy Watch 4. However, it ensures the device remains relevant and functional for the foreseeable future. It’s a testament to the power of software updates to extend the lifespan of hardware and a reminder of the impact the Galaxy Watch 4 had on the wearable tech world.
