Samsung has surprised users of the Galaxy Watch Ultra by rolling out the stable One UI 8 Watch update soon after launching a public beta program. This marks the first major update for the Galaxy Watch Ultra, which was originally released about a year ago with One UI Watch 6 installed. The new update is not just a minor patch; it is indeed the much-anticipated One UI Watch 8. Users have begun receiving notifications indicating that the update is available for their devices, a welcome development for owners hoping to enhance the functionality of their wearables.
However, downloading this significant update—which is nearly 2GB—will require some patience, as the installation process might take a bit of time. Among the new features included in this update are Bedtime Guidance, Vascular Load metrics, a Running Coach, and an Antioxidant Index. These additions bring the original Galaxy Watch Ultra in line with its 2025 successor in terms of software capabilities. Given Samsung’s previous struggles with timely updates for other devices, this speedy rollout is both surprising and appreciated by users.
Currently, the One UI Watch 8 update is confirmed to be available over the air in the U.S. on carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile, with expectations for a global rollout soon. The update makes the Galaxy Watch Ultra an even more appealing option, especially as many retailers are offering significant discounts. For those considering alternatives, the non-rugged Galaxy Watch 8 may be a good choice, or perhaps the often discounted Galaxy Watch 7, which is also expected to receive the One UI Watch 8 update shortly. However, the pricing and design of the upcoming Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) may deter some buyers from making that investment.