Galaxy Watch 9, Ultra 2 Leaks Reveal 3 Colors as Samsung Skips Classic Model

Q: Will Samsung's new AI chip and 5G finally let the smartwatch ditch the smartphone for good?

Not yet, but Samsung’s next watches look much closer to true phone-free use than earlier models. The strongest evidence is the rumored Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 hardware. Leaks and regulatory filings point to a much larger 800 mAh battery, 10-watt charging, Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon Wear Elite chip, and 5G RedCap support. That combination matters: the 3nm chip’s built-in NPU is designed for on-device AI, so health coaching, voice tasks, and some analysis can run locally with lower delay and less dependence on a phone or cloud connection. RedCap, a lighter 5G standard for wearables, should also make standalone calling, messaging, syncing, and app access more practical without the battery hit of full 5G. That said, “ditch the smartphone for good” is still too strong. Even with cellular connectivity, smartwatches remain constrained by screen size, battery life, app ecosystems, and setup requirements. Some advanced Samsung health features have historically worked best, or only, with Galaxy phones. Wider RedCap coverage is also still rolling out through 2026, so the real-world benefit will depend on carrier support. What Samsung appears to be building is not a phone replacement, but a far more independent wrist computer. For workouts, health tracking, quick communication, navigation, and emergency use, the Watch Ultra 2 could handle much more on its own. For full productivity, richer apps, cameras, and long sessions, the smartphone is still likely to remain the primary device.

3 articles · Updated · 9to5Google · Jun 20

New leaks ahead of Samsung’s July event point to Galaxy Watch 9 and Ultra 2 arriving in black, silver and beige, while a previously rumored Classic version is now not expected.
Software-sourced renders also suggest the Ultra 2 will get a boxier case, thinner bezels and a revised side button that keeps only an orange outline instead of a fully orange design.
The same leak shows interface changes including a redesigned Samsung Health experience, a new-looking watchface picker and updated Ultra 2 button visuals inside a compass app or face.
The leak lands as Samsung’s watch business faces pressure in 2026, with Galaxy Watch shipments previously reported down 28%.