Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 9 and Ultra 2 bet big on battery

Samsung announced the latest iteration of its wearable lineup with the Galaxy Watch 9 and the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2. These devices focus on hardware refinements to address long-standing user feedback regarding battery life and health monitoring capabilities. Samsung aims to solidify its position in the wearable market by packing larger components into slimmer physical frames.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 features an 800mAh battery, representing a 35 percent increase over its predecessor. Despite the larger power cell, the chassis remains 12 percent thinner at 10.7mm. Samsung designed the watch with a 5,000-nit display to ensure readability in direct sunlight, marking it as one of the brightest screens available on a smartwatch today.

While the technology inside the devices indicates a clear focus on performance, the product launch includes a price increase for the Ultra model. The Ultra 2 now carries a retail price of $699.99, which is $50 higher than the original version. The standard Galaxy Watch 9 also features display upgrades, boasting 3,000 nits of brightness.

These updates suggest a strategy of iterative improvement rather than radical design changes. By focusing on battery longevity and screen visibility, the company targets outdoor users and those seeking longer periods between charges. Consumers can expect these units to arrive as part of the broader 2026 product cycle.