The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, a flagship offering in the world of smartwatches, has garnered attention for its advanced features and sleek design. If you’re considering this watch or simply curious about its capabilities, this guide is for you.
Samsung’s Galaxy Watch series has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in wearable tech. With each iteration, they’ve combined style with substance, and the Galaxy Watch 4 is no exception.
A New Era for Android Smartwatches
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and its counterpart, the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, have ushered in a new era for Android smartwatches. These are the first watches in a long time that could potentially provide Android users with a credible smartwatch experience. After a week of testing, it’s evident that these are the best smartwatches to pair with a Samsung phone.
Samsung’s Touch on Google’s Wear OS 3
While these watches run on Google’s new Wear OS 3, they are unmistakably Samsung. From the interface to the apps, NFC payment system, health tracking, and even the assistant, everything screams Samsung’s Galaxy ecosystem. This means that while you’re getting the best of Google’s Wear OS, you’re also deeply entrenched in Samsung’s world.
The Best of Both Worlds: Hardware and Software
Samsung’s collaboration with Google has resulted in a smartwatch that avoids the pitfalls of both Wear OS and Tizen. The Galaxy Watch 4 and 4 Classic are fast, lasting more than a full day without resorting to battery saver modes. Plus, they support apps like Google Maps and are set to support third-party apps like Strava and Spotify.
In terms of hardware, both models align with Samsung’s previous smartwatches. They feature circular OLED watchfaces that can be always on, ensuring they’re not too bulky while maintaining a premium look and feel. The regular Galaxy Watch 4 starts at a reasonable $249.99 for the 40mm aluminum version. If you’re looking for something more premium, the Watch 4 Classic with a rotating bezel and a stainless steel build starts at $349.99 for the 42mm model.
Interface and Usability
The core interface of these watches blends Google’s Wear OS with Samsung’s Tizen-inspired One UI. The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic boasts a physical rotating bezel, making navigation a breeze. In contrast, the regular Galaxy Watch 4 has a touch-sensitive bezel, which can be a bit tricky to use.
Deep Dive into Samsung’s Ecosystem
The Galaxy Watch 4 is deeply integrated with Samsung’s ecosystem. From Samsung Pay to Bixby, the digital assistant, it’s all Samsung. Most of the preinstalled apps, from Calendar to Weather, are from Samsung. While the watch works with any Android phone, to get the full experience, you’ll need to install multiple Samsung apps.
Health Features: More Than Just Step Counting
One of the standout features of the Galaxy Watch 4 series is its health tracking capabilities. The watch can track 95 different types of workouts, monitor your heart rate, and even measure body fat percentages. It also offers ECG for checking atrial fibrillation and blood oxygen detection. However, it’s essential to remember that these features should not be used as diagnostic tools.
Key Features of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
- Wear OS Powered by Samsung: A significant shift from its predecessors, the Watch 4 now runs on Wear OS, co-developed with Google, offering a plethora of apps and integrations.
- Advanced Health Monitoring: The watch boasts a BioActive Sensor that tracks heart rate, ECG, and even body composition.
- Sleek Design: With a streamlined design, the watch offers both elegance and durability.
- Seamless Connectivity: Pair it with your Samsung smartphone for a unified tech experience, from message notifications to music control.
Personal Experiences with the Galaxy Watch 4 I recently upgraded to the Galaxy Watch 4, and the experience has been nothing short of transformative. The body composition feature was a revelation, offering insights that were previously limited to specialized equipment. Moreover, the seamless integration with my Samsung smartphone made daily tasks more efficient.
How does the Galaxy Watch 4 differ from its predecessors? The most notable difference is the shift to Wear OS, co-developed with Google. This change offers users access to a broader range of apps and services.
Is the watch compatible with non-Samsung smartphones? Yes, while it’s optimized for Samsung phones, the Galaxy Watch 4 can be paired with other Android smartphones.
What’s the battery life like? The Galaxy Watch 4 boasts a battery life of up to 40 hours on a single charge, though this can vary based on usage.
Can I take the watch swimming? Yes, the Galaxy Watch 4 is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming.
Conclusion
The Galaxy Watch 4 – A Fusion of Style and Tech The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 stands as a testament to Samsung’s commitment to innovation. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast seeking detailed health insights or a tech aficionado looking for seamless connectivity, the Watch 4 delivers on all fronts.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 series offers a promising smartwatch experience for Android users, especially those using Samsung phones. While it brings together the best of Google’s Wear OS and Samsung’s ecosystem, it also means you’re deeply entrenched in Samsung’s world. If you’re a Samsung user, the Galaxy Watch 4 is an excellent choice. However, if you’re not, you might find yourself pushed towards Samsung’s ecosystem.
FAQs
- Is the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 suitable for non-Samsung Android users?
- While the watch works with any Android phone, to get the full experience, you’ll need to install multiple Samsung apps. It’s best suited for Samsung phone users.
- Does the Galaxy Watch 4 support third-party apps?
- Yes, the watch supports third-party apps like Google Maps, Strava, and Spotify.
- How does the health tracking feature on the Galaxy Watch 4 compare to other smartwatches?
- The Galaxy Watch 4 offers extensive health tracking features, including the ability to track 95 different workouts, monitor heart rate, and measure body fat percentages. However, these features should not be used as diagnostic tools.
Hi! I’m Eric and I work on the knowledge base at GadgetMates.com. You can see some of my writings about technology, cellphone repair, and computer repair here.
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