Samsung Starts Galaxy Watch 9 US Testing as 5G Ultra 2 Rumors Build

4 articles · Updated · CNET · May 27

Galaxy Watch 9 firmware has reportedly appeared on a Samsung US test server, indicating the smartwatch has moved into active testing ahead of a likely July or early-August launch.
That timing fits Samsung's expected summer Unpacked event, where the Watch 9 is widely tipped to debut alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Z Flip 8 and a successor to the 2024 Galaxy Watch Ultra.
47mm Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 leaks point to 5G, 4G and Wi-Fi variants, with 5G models potentially limited to the US and South Korea while other markets get lower-connectivity versions.
Health and performance upgrades are the main rumored differentiators: the Ultra 2 could add a new Qualcomm wearable chip, deeper sensor-based health tracking and possibly noninvasive glucose monitoring.
Samsung has shown no comparable signs of a Galaxy Ring 2, suggesting its 2026 wearables lineup is shaping up as a two-watch strategy centered on the Watch 9 and Ultra 2.

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