Samsung has unveiled its new Google co-designed operating system and interface for the next Galaxy watch, called One UI, or user interface, Watch. The announcement was made via a virtual event as part of the Mobile World Congress this week.
The actual watch design is unknown, although recent leaks imply that it would resemble Samsung's more simple Galaxy Watch Active 2 design, and possibly be called the Galaxy Watch.
Google and Samsung previously announced a collaboration to develop future Google Wear devices, and Samsung's Galaxy watch will be the first device to receive the software. Other watches powered by the new One user interface Watch software, including Fossil smartwatches, are expected later in 2021.
The One user interface interface, like the Apple Watch, promises to be more instantaneously connected to the paired phone and to plug into more of the phone's core settings. Compatible apps should load on the phone and cross-load instantly on the watch.
The demoed features are straightforward: apps swiping up, world clocks syncing between phone and watch, and universal settings like Do Not Disturb displayed on both the watch and the phone at the same time.
The One user interface Watch software downloads programs from Google Play, and many Wear OS apps are accessible for download. Adidas Running, Golfbuddy Smart Caddie, Strava, Swim.com, Calm, Sleep Cycle, Spotify, YouTube Music and Google Maps are among the apps confirmed by Samsung.
Samsung also confirmed that the new platform, like the Galaxy Watch 3, will support eSIM with LTE connectivity, allowing these new watches to be utilized without a phone.
Some of Samsung's previous Galaxy Watch apps will be available on Google Play for One user interface Watch, although it's unclear which ones. Samsung also demonstrated its watch face designer software for developers and watch face fans.
"We're thrilled to bring longer battery life, faster performance and a wide range of apps, including many from Google to a whole new wearable experience," Google's Sameer Samat said.
