Samsung's Top-tier Galaxy Watch 5 has Officially Arrived
Samsung continues to lead the way in producing the only notable Android-powered smartwatches, as demonstrated by their latest additions to their lineup: the Galaxy Watch 5 and Galaxy Watch 5 Pro. Introduced at their Unpacked event, these new models are set to complement Samsung's range of foldables. While the Watch 5 serves as an upgrade to its predecessor, the Watch 4, the Pro version appears to be vying for a share of the market dominated by fitness-focused smartwatches from brands such as Garmin and Polar.
Let's delve into the Galaxy Watch 5, which is offered in two sizes (40mm and 44mm) to cater to various wrist sizes. The updated version boasts a handful of fresh color options, including a silver case with a purple strap for the smaller variant and a striking blue sapphire finish matched with a corresponding band for the larger model.
In terms of display, the regular Galaxy Watch 5 sports a 1.19" AMOLED screen, while the larger Watch 5 offers a 1.36" panel. Samsung claims that the new sapphire crystal glass display on the Watch 5 series is about 60% more resistant to damage compared to the screens featured on the Galaxy Watch 4 series. This strengthening of the physical structure is a welcome improvement in the realm of wearable technology, even if it's unlikely that I will test this claim by intentionally cracking my smartwatch!
The battery capacities of the 40mm and 44mm models have also been upgraded. The smaller version now possesses a 284mAh battery, while the larger one boasts a 410mAh power source. Both batteries have seen an improvement from their respective predecessors, with Samsung promising a 30% increase in charging speed for the Galaxy Watch 5.
Durability is not neglected in the design of the Galaxy Watch 5, as both sizes are rated IP68 for water resistance and can withstand water pressure up to 50 meters (5ATM).
Samsung has yet to disclose the processor utilized in the Galaxy Watch 5, only specifying that it comes with 1.5GB of RAM and 16GB of internal storage for music and photographs. However, the Watch 5 series does incorporate Samsung's BioActive Sensor, which encompasses components for tracking heart rate and ECG readings as well as body composition measurements. Additionally, the Galaxy Watch 5 features a temperature monitoring functionality, and the integration of these readings within the Samsung Health app is something that eagerly awaits exploration.
The Galaxy Watch 5 is available at a starting price of $280 for the Bluetooth version and $330 for the LTE version. These devices will be available from August 26, with a Bespoke program offered for individuals seeking to personalize their smartwatch and gain access to exclusive color options.
The Galaxy Watch 5 Pro
Samsung aims to expand its presence beyond being simply an Android-focused smartwatch manufacturer. They also aspire to garner recognition within the realm of fitness-enthusiasts, which is why they have unveiled the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro.
The Galaxy Watch 5 Pro is significantly more robust than its counterpart, boasting a sapphire crystal display and a titanium casing to shield it from outdoor elements. The Watch 5 Pro also includes a D-buckle sport band, which boasts enhanced durability compared to the Watch 5's silicone band. While the buckle mechanism might not appeal to my personal preferences, this smartwatch was clearly designed for a different audience.
The Watch 5 Pro sports a larger battery than its peers in the Galaxy Watch 5 lineup. It comes equipped with a 590mAh battery pack, while retaining the same internal hardware specifications as its siblings – 1.5GB of RAM and 16GB of internal storage for audio and photographs. Like the Watch 5, the Watch 5 Pro is also capable of measuring skin temperature, heart rate, ECG, and body composition. Despite sharing the same water resistance rating as the regular Watch 5, the Pro model's robust construction makes it an apt choice for more demanding environments.
The Galaxy Watch 5 Pro is the premium option in this lineup, with its Bluetooth version starting at $450 and the LTE version priced at $500. It goes on sale alongside its counterparts on August 26.
The Evolution of Samsung Health
Route Tracking is set to become a feature of the Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro. This function takes inspiration from popular training apps like Strava, offering users the ability to navigate outdoors during activities like hiking or running, without the need to constantly consult their smartphones.
Samsung Health continues to serve as the essential Android application for smartwatch users who opt for Samsung-built devices. The health suite has received updates, emphasizing improved sleep tracking through the introduction of Sleep Scores earlier this year or a Galaxy Watch software update. The application now also provides workout recovery data and personalized hydration recommendations based on sweating patterns.
The most exciting new feature in Samsung Health is Route Additions, which allows users to explore their surroundings during outdoor activities without needing their phones. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to test this functionality during our forthcoming review of the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro.
The Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro, with their advanced technology, are poised to shape the future of wearable devices. Samsung's commitment to innovation is evident in the integration of Route Tracking in these smartwatches, a feature that could revolutionize outdoor activities.
The tech giant's ambition extends beyond smartwatches, as the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro's rugged design and enhanced features suggest Samsung's pursuit of gaining recognition in the fitness-enthusiast market. This ambition is reflective of the role technology plays in shaping our future, where fitness and technology are increasingly intertwined.
