Download now! One UI 8 Watch is coming to last year's flagship smartwatches, bringing these new features

Samsung surprised owners of last year’s Galaxy Watch Ultra model by starting to offer them the latest One UI 8 Watch update. This is the same software version that the company introduced with the new Galaxy Watch 8 series at the recent Unpacked event, where new foldables were also revealed. The Korean company confirmed that the update brings not only an improved user interface but also a range of new health features that were previously only available on the latest models.

New health features with a dose of artificial intelligence

Thanks to the update, Galaxy Watch Ultra owners will gain three key health features. The first is Vascular Load, which measures the strain on the vascular system during sleep. The second new feature is Antioxidant Index, which can measure the amount of carotenoids (a type of antioxidants) stored in the skin. The third, and perhaps most interesting feature for active users, is Running Coach.

The Running Coach can create a detailed running plan based on your goal – whether it’s preparation for a 5 km, 10 km, half marathon, or full marathon. The system first measures your running performance using a twelve-minute test and then creates a personalized training plan based on the results.

Samsung emphasizes that these advanced features will not be available for older models such as Galaxy Watch 4, 5, and 6. The reason is said to be the absence of the improved BioActive sensor, which debuted only last year with the Watch Ultra and Watch 7 models.

Unfortunately, it is also not yet clear whether the Bedtime Guidance and High Stress Alert features will arrive on last year’s Ultra model, or remain exclusive to this year’s Watch 8 series.

Improved User Interface

One UI 8 Watch focuses on better readability of information on the watch’s small display. The main new feature is Multi-Info tiles, which you can customize according to your own preferences. You can choose what information will be displayed – from weather to health metrics.

Another practical new feature is the Now Bar, which you might know from Galaxy phones. It’s a bar where you’ll find camera controls, media player, stopwatch and timer, and other tools.

The South Korean manufacturer confirmed that the One UI 8 Watch update will be gradually released for older models as well. Last week, reports of a beta version for Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro emerged. For Galaxy Watch Ultra owners, the update is already available, although Samsung warns that it may appear with a slight delay in some markets.

Do you own a Galaxy Watch Ultra? Have you already received the One UI 8 Watch update?