Samsung has officially launched its latest Galaxy Watch 8 series, marking a significant milestone as the first smartwatches to operate on Wear OS 6. This new series comes equipped with One UI 8 and is currently available for pre-order, with general availability set to begin on July 25, 2025. The introduction of Wear OS 6 not only enhances the user experience but also integrates advanced functionalities such as Bedtime Guidance, Vascular Load, and a Running Coach.
One of the most anticipated features of the Galaxy Watch 8 series is the innovative battery protection feature, aimed at reducing early battery degradation. This development follows previous rumors regarding Google’s efforts to implement Adaptive Charging for the Pixel Watch, which were hinted at in code strings found within the Pixel Watch Management Service app back in February. By June, indications suggested that similar charging optimization features might extend beyond just Pixel devices, as seen in the Wear OS 6 Developer Preview.
According to reports from Android Authority's Mishaal Rahman, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic introduces a unique charging cap that limits battery charging to 90 percent. This feature is designed to enhance battery longevity while still ensuring that the smartwatch can last throughout the day. The charging process intelligently halts once the battery level reaches 90% and resumes when it drops to 85%. This innovative functionality is accessible through a new option under Settings → Battery, which previously only offered two settings: Show charging info and Auto power on.
The choice of a 90 percent cap for charging is strategic, especially considering the compact size of smartwatch batteries. A lower limit of 80 percent could potentially hinder the device's ability to maintain power for an entire day, which might lead users to disable this feature, negating its intended benefits. By capping charging at 90 percent, Samsung strikes a balance between preventing battery wear and ensuring that the watch remains functional throughout the day.
While the battery protection feature has been confirmed for the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, it is highly likely that this functionality will also be included in the standard Galaxy Watch 8 and the upcoming 2025 Watch Ultra. We are currently evaluating our review units and will provide updates in this article as more information becomes available.
