Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Debuts With AI, New Design, & $50 Off
Samsung’s recently launched Galaxy Watch 8 is already available with a significant discount, just days after its July 25th release. The 40mm model is now priced at $299.99, a $50 reduction from its original cost, directly through Samsung. Amazon is offering a similar $50 promotional credit for future purchases with a specific checkout code. The larger 44mm variant is also discounted to $379.99.
This rapid price adjustment positions the Galaxy Watch 8 as an attractive option for Android users considering a smartwatch upgrade or those new to wearables.
A key design change in the Watch 8 is its new “squircle” shape. While its aesthetic may be subjective, this design contributes to a thinner profile and, according to initial reviews, a more comfortable fit on the wrist. This design choice also allows the Watch 8 to maintain over a day of battery life despite its slimmer build compared to the Galaxy Watch 7.
Functionality is enhanced by the integration of Google’s Gemini AI, enabling users to perform various tasks directly from their wrist, such as managing playlists or checking weather forecasts.
On the health and wellness front, the Galaxy Watch 8 provides comprehensive tracking for steps, heart rate, and blood oxygen levels. When paired with a Samsung Galaxy smartphone, it unlocks advanced features like EKG readings and sleep apnea detection. New additions include the “Running Coach,” which evaluates a user’s running performance over a 12-minute test to create personalized workout programs. Another new feature, the “Antioxidant Index,” is designed to monitor fruit and vegetable intake, though early observations suggest this sensor can be misled by colorful items.
While the Galaxy Watch 8 does not represent a drastic overhaul from its immediate predecessor, it offers a compelling upgrade for owners of the Galaxy Watch 5 or earlier models. Notably, the current $50 discount effectively offsets the device’s launch price increase compared to the Galaxy Watch 7, making its initial cost equivalent to its predecessor’s.