Key Points:
- Samsung’s new Galaxy Watch AI features may be compatible with all Android phones.
- These AI features will remain free until at least the end of 2025.
- Some features might still require pairing with a Samsung phone.
Samsung recently revealed several new AI enhancements for its Galaxy Watch lineup as part of the One UI 6 Watch update, based on Wear OS 5. These features, primarily focused on health, could potentially be available for all Android phones, not just Samsung devices. However, Samsung has hinted that these AI features may become a paid service in the future, remaining free until at least the end of 2025.
The announcement noted that availability might vary by device, with the features being accessible on supported Samsung Galaxy devices for free until the specified date. The exact terms for AI features offered by third parties were not detailed, suggesting that some functionalities might require additional payments down the line.
A significant point of interest is whether these new AI features will work with Galaxy Watches paired to non-Samsung Android phones. Historically, Samsung has restricted certain features like ECG to only work with Galaxy smartphones. Yet, some of the upcoming features, such as the “Energy Score,” are stated to be available on Android phones, provided they run Android 10 or above and have the Samsung Health app installed.
Despite this, specific features like Functional Threshold Power still necessitate a Galaxy smartphone for full functionality. Clarity on the full scope of device compatibility will likely come once these updates roll out, with the beta version of One UI 6 Watch expected in June.
