The smartwatch world is buzzing with excitement following a significant leak revealing what appears to be Samsung's biggest design change to its flagship wearable line in years. According to recently discovered firmware files, Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Watch 8 series may abandon its iconic circular design in favor of a "squircle" shape reminiscent of the Apple Watch and last year's Galaxy Watch Ultra. This dramatic shift represents a potential turning point for Samsung's wearable strategy, potentially signaling the company's recognition that rectangular displays might better serve the functional needs of modern smartwatch users. The leaked images show both the standard Galaxy Watch 8 and the returning Galaxy Watch 8 Classic featuring this new squircle design while maintaining certain distinctive elements that have made Samsung's watches popular among Android users. As we await the official announcement expected in July 2025, this leak provides fascinating insights into Samsung's evolving design philosophy and how it might reshape the competitive landscape of premium smartwatches.
The Leaked Design: Samsung's Circular Evolution Becomes "Squircle"
The recent leak exposed through One UI 8 Watch firmware files has provided a surprising glimpse into Samsung's next-generation smartwatch design. Animation files discovered within the code clearly show both the Galaxy Watch 8 and Galaxy Watch 8 Classic sporting a new "squircle" chassis – a square shape with rounded corners – representing a significant departure from Samsung's long-standing circular watch designs. These images appear in firmware files with codenames "Fresh8" for the standard Watch 8 and "Wise8" for the Watch 8 Classic, suggesting these are indeed the upcoming models slated for release.
According to the leaked images, both models will maintain circular displays despite their squircle chassis, creating an interesting hybrid design. The design appears to lift the side buttons further out from the body, potentially improving accessibility and tactile feedback. The Galaxy Watch 8 will reportedly maintain its two-button configuration, while the Classic model appears to add a third "Quick Button" similar to the Galaxy Watch Ultra.
Classic Model Returns with Premium Enhancements
After skipping the Watch 7 series, the Classic model is returning. The Classic variant has historically featured premium elements like a rotating bezel, which may return. The Watch 8 Classic is expected to include a stronger vibration motor and possibly be available in only one size this year, unlike previous dual-size options.
One UI 8 Watch: A Major Software Overhaul
Samsung is skipping One UI 7 Watch and jumping to One UI 8 Watch, likely based on Wear OS 6. New features include integration with Google Gemini AI for smart assistant actions, a contextual "Now Bar" interface activated by gestures, and overall improved usability and visual design.
Battery-Preserving Features and UI Improvements
One UI 8 Watch includes an adaptive battery charging system that stops charging at a preset level (e.g., 95%) and resumes below a threshold. These features, combined with a slightly larger 435 mAh battery and a 3nm processor, should improve battery longevity and daily endurance.
Interface improvements include App Shortcuts (customizable 2×1 or 2×2 tiles), Shuffle Watch Face (auto-switching favorites), and Recommend Watch Face (AI-powered suggestions).
Hardware Specifications and Performance Expectations
The Galaxy Watch 8 will likely reuse the Exynos W1000 processor, with 2GB RAM and 32GB storage. Connectivity will include Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, NFC, and LTE support. AMOLED screens with 2,000 nit brightness and 60Hz refresh rates are expected to return, offering premium display quality.
Enhanced Health and Fitness Capabilities
The Watch 8 is expected to retain the BioActive Sensor, which tracks heart rate, ECG, and body composition. With dual-band GPS and 5ATM/IP68 water resistance, it’s built for fitness tracking, outdoor activities, and health monitoring.
Market Positioning and Competition
The squircle design aligns Samsung closer with Apple’s aesthetic, diverging from Google’s Pixel Watch, which stays round. Samsung appears to be targeting multiple segments with the standard, Classic, and Ultra lines, possibly starting at $299 for the 40mm Watch 8.
User Reactions and Design Philosophy
Early reactions to the squircle design are mixed. Samsung seems to be prioritizing practical screen usability over the visual appeal of a circular body, reflecting a broader industry trend.
Release Timeline and Expectations
The Galaxy Watch 8 is expected in July 2025 during Samsung’s Unpacked event, with availability likely in late July or early August. Variants will include standard (40mm, 44mm) and Classic, each with Wi-Fi and LTE models. Pricing is expected to match or slightly exceed previous models.
Anticipating the Official Reveal
Samsung may continue hinting at the new design ahead of its reveal. Marketing may focus on balancing tradition and innovation while tying in with Samsung’s broader product ecosystem.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Samsung's Wearable Strategy
The Galaxy Watch 8 represents a bold evolution in Samsung’s design language, blending circular legacy with a squircle form factor. Coupled with a powerful software update and premium hardware options, this generation may mark Samsung’s most significant leap forward in the smartwatch space.