Galaxy Watch 8 brings Google’s Gemini AI to your wrist for $350

Samsung Electronics has unveiled its latest smartwatch lineup, the Galaxy Watch 8 and Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, featuring Google’s Wear OS 6 operating system with built-in Gemini AI chatbot functionality. The devices represent Samsung’s continued effort to compete with Apple in the smartwatch market, with the AI assistant accessible through voice commands or a dedicated button on the watch.

Key product details: The new Galaxy Watch series includes two models priced at different tiers for varying consumer needs.

• The Galaxy Watch 8 is priced at $350, while the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic costs $500.
• Both devices are among the first to launch with Google’s Wear OS 6 operating system.
• The Gemini AI chatbot can be activated by voice or through a button on the watch.

What you should know: Samsung simultaneously announced new foldable phones alongside the smartwatch launch, indicating a broader product refresh strategy.

• All new hardware is available for preorder starting Wednesday.
• Shipping begins on July 25 for both the smartwatches and foldable phones.

Why this matters: Samsung’s integration of Google’s latest AI technology positions the company to better compete against Apple’s dominant position in the smartwatch market, while the built-in Gemini AI represents a significant step toward more intelligent wearable devices that can handle complex user interactions directly on the wrist.

Competitive landscape: The smartwatch market remains heavily dominated by Apple, making Samsung’s AI-enhanced approach a strategic differentiator in attracting consumers seeking advanced functionality beyond basic fitness tracking and notifications.