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I Tested the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 for a Week and It’s a Rugged Scene-Stealer

Samsung’s sporty smartwatch gets a larger battery, a faster Qualcomm processor, hands-free Gemini and new trail features. The catch? It also costs more.

CNET 2 min read 6/10
I Tested the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 for a Week and It’s a Rugged Scene-Stealer
Key Takeaways
  • Samsung’s Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 features a larger battery than the original, though exact milliamp-hour capacity was not disclosed in the review.
  • The smartwatch is powered by a faster Qualcomm processor, improving app launch speeds and system responsiveness.
  • Hands-free Gemini AI integration allows users to control the watch via voice without tapping the screen.
  • New trail features include route tracking and elevation alerts, designed for hiking and trail running.
  • The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 carries a higher price than the first-generation model, reflecting its upgraded hardware and AI capabilities.
Samsung just made its smartwatch lineup tougher, smarter, and costlier. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, tested for a week by CNET, arrives with a larger battery, a faster Qualcomm processor, and hands-free access to Google's Gemini AI — but it also commands a higher price. This rugged scene-stealer aims to dethrone the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Garmin's Fenix series. The wearable tech market has been pushing towards durable devices for outdoor enthusiasts. Samsung's Ultra line, introduced last year, targets that niche with a combination of military-grade toughness and premium features. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 continues that trajectory. Key upgrades include a larger battery, though exact capacity was not disclosed in the review, and a new Qualcomm chip that promises snappier performance and better efficiency. The most buzzed-about addition is hands-free Gemini integration — users can issue voice commands without tapping the screen, a boon for runners, hikers, and cyclists. New trail features, such as route tracking and elevation alerts, cater to adventure seekers. Price creep is the trade-off. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 costs more than its predecessor, a move that may test consumer loyalty in a competitive segment. Analysts note that Samsung is betting on its ecosystem and AI capabilities to justify the premium. The hands-free Gemini angle is a direct shot at Apple's Siri-driven smartwatch experience, but Samsung must deliver on reliability and battery life to win over serious athletes. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is currently available for pre-order, with general release expected in late February. Early reviews praise the brighter display and improved durability. Samsung is expected to roll out software updates that expand trail mapping and offline navigation. The real test will be long-term battery performance and whether the price premium translates into lasting user satisfaction. This is a bold play for the wrist of the fitness-obsessed — and the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 might just steal the show.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is Samsung's rugged smartwatch designed for outdoor and athletic use. It features a larger battery, a faster Qualcomm processor, and hands-free Gemini AI integration.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is priced higher than the original Galaxy Watch Ultra. Exact pricing depends on configuration and region, but the increase reflects upgraded hardware and AI features.

Key new features include a larger battery, a faster Qualcomm processor, hands-free Gemini AI for voice commands, and new trail-specific capabilities like route tracking and elevation alerts.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 competes directly with the Apple Watch Ultra 2. It offers a similar rugged design, but Samsung's model emphasizes Gemini AI integration and may have different trail features. Battery life and ecosystem compatibility are key differentiators.

The value depends on how much you rely on Samsung's ecosystem and AI features. The hands-free Gemini and improved battery could justify the premium for serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, but budget-conscious buyers may prefer alternatives.

Topics

Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 Samsung smartwatch rugged smartwatch Gemini AI Qualcomm processor wearable tech smartwatch review battery life

Original source

www.cnet.com

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