Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 review: Health data overload, but built for the future - ZDNET

Our gifting experts are obsessively searching for holiday gifts that are unique, thoughtful and suitable for any budget. Why you can trust ZDNET: ZDNET independently tests and researches products to bring you our best recommendations and advice. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Samsung's latest smartwatch introduces new metrics, a longer-lasting battery, and hints at the future of wearables. Article updated on August 7, 2026, 5:10 pm EDT Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. Consumers are catching on to the fact that not every generational upgrade to their favorite tech can be life-changing. Instead, companies are forced to improve their products little by little. I’ve thought about this a lot as I tested the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9. It arrives with a few improvements under the hood: a new processor, some additional health metrics, and a longer battery on the 40mm device. Also: Galaxy Watch 9 vs. Galaxy Watch 8: I’ve compared both models, here’s my advice It isn’t a groundbreaking smartwatch, but it’s great for a first-time buyer, with upgrades that point to the future Samsung aims to create through its wearables. The question is whether thos