Have you checked out the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2024) vs Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)? What’s the difference? They are both premium watches with an undisputable reputation for excellence and high performance. Is the 2025 ulltra Model even necessary?
Samsung’s latest flagship wearable, the Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025), builds on the solid foundation of its predecessor with refined hardware, smarter software, and health innovations that push the boundaries of what a smartwatch can do. While the Watch Ultra (2024) model was already a powerhouse in rugged design and fitness tracking, the 2025 edition introduces AI-powered health insights, expanded storage, and a lighter titanium build—all without increasing the price tag.
In this comprehensive comparison, we will explore how the new Ultra stacks up against the original, what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and why the 2025 model might be the most complete Android smartwatch to date.
Design & Build: Familiar Form, Refined Function
Samsung didn’t reinvent the wheel with the 2025 Ultra—but it polished it. The iconic squircle titanium chassis remains, offering the same 47mm footprint and rugged MIL-STD-810H certification. However, the new model is noticeably lighter (~32g), improving comfort for long-term wear.
Both premium watches feature:
- 1.5-inch Super AMOLED display with up to 3000 nits brightness
- Sapphire crystal glass for scratch resistance
- IP68 + 10ATM water resistance, suitable for diving and extreme sports
The 2025 version introduces a new Titanium Blue colorway, adding flair to its utilitarian aesthetic.
Comparison Table: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2024) vs Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
| Feature | Galaxy Watch Ultra (2024) | Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) |
| Design | Titanium squircle frame | Same, but lighter (~32g) |
| Display | 1.5″ AMOLED, 3000 nits | Same |
| Storage | 32GB | 64GB (double capacity) |
| RAM | 2GB | 2GB |
| Processor | Exynos W1000 (3nm) | Same |
| Battery | 590mAh | Same |
| Battery Life | Up to 100 hrs (Eco mode) | Up to 60 hrs (real-world usage) |
| OS & UI | Wear OS 5 + One UI Watch 5 | Wear OS 6 + One UI Watch 8 |
| Health Sensors | ECG, BP, SpO₂, BioActive | Adds blood glucose monitoring |
| AI Features | Basic voice assistant | Gemini AI + Now Bar |
| Sleep Tracking | Standard | AI-enhanced insights |
| Price (USD) | ~$649 | ~$649 |
Smarter Software & AI Integration
The Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) debuts with Wear OS 6 and One UI Watch 8, delivering smoother animations, better battery optimization, and a more intuitive interface. The standout feature is Galaxy AI, which powers:
- Gemini Assistant: A smarter, context-aware voice assistant
- Now Bar: A dynamic widget for quick access to timers, media, and workouts
- Bedtime Guidance: Personalized sleep coaching based on heart rate variability
- Running Coach: Real-time feedback and motivation during workouts
These upgrades make the Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) feel more like a personal health companion than just a fitness tracker.
Health Innovations: Going Beyond the Basics
Samsung’s BioActive Sensor suite gets a significant upgrade in 2025. In addition to ECG, heart rate, and SpO₂, the new Ultra introduces:
- Blood Glucose Monitoring: A game-changer for users managing diabetes or tracking metabolic health
- Antioxidant Index: Estimates skin antioxidant levels for wellness insights
- Vascular Load: Measures circulatory strain during sleep and recovery
These features position the Ultra (2025) as a leader in non-invasive health tracking, rivaling even medical-grade devices in accessibility and convenience.
Battery & Performance: Endurance Meets Efficiency
While both models share the same 590mAh battery, Samsung has optimized power usage in the 2025 Ultra edition. Real-world testing shows:
- Up to 60 hours with mixed usage
- Up to 100 hours in Power Saving Mode
- Fast wireless charging remains unchanged
The Exynos W1000 (3nm) chip continues to deliver snappy performance, and the 64GB storage allows for more offline music, maps, and apps—ideal for athletes and travelers.
What Sets the Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) Apart?
Here are the USPs that elevate the 2025 Ultra above its predecessor and competitors:
- AI-powered health insights with Gemini and Galaxy AI
- Blood glucose monitoring—a rare feature in wearables
- Double the storage for offline functionality (64GB to the initial 32GB)
- Lighter titanium build for improved comfort
- Advanced GPS (L1+L5) for pinpoint accuracy in urban and remote areas
- Emergency Siren (86dB) and Track Back Navigation for outdoor safety
Conclusion: Should You Upgrade?
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) isn’t a radical reinvention—it’s a refined evolution. For users of the 2024 Ultra, the upgrade may feel incremental. But for new buyers or health-focused users, the 2025 model offers meaningful enhancements in AI, health tracking, and usability.
With its rugged design, intelligent software, and cutting-edge health features, the Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) cements Samsung’s position at the top of the Android smartwatch hierarchy. It’s not just a watch—it’s a wearable powerhouse built for those who demand more.
Please read our exclusive post providing a comparison between the Samsung Watch8 Series and Watch Ultra (2025) and take note of the subtle differences between each model to help you make your own decisions and knowledge base when it comes to the latest tech gadgets. Subscribe to JuaTech Africa abd be sure to get latest new, views and reviews of the latest gadgets, latest tech news and impactful information from tech leaders.
