Galaxy Watch Users Can Now Try the One UI 8 Watch Beta
Following the release of the Android 16-based One UI 8 beta for Galaxy S25 smartphones, Samsung has now expanded the update to its wearable lineup by launching the One UI 8 Watch beta program for eligible Galaxy smartwatches. The test is currently live in South Korea and the United States , accessible through the Samsung Members app .
This new software update brings a suite of advanced health-focused features , designed to help users better understand their well-being and build healthier habits over time. Let’s take a closer look at what’s new:
🩺 Bedtime Guidance
The new Bedtime Guidance feature aims to help users find the best time to sleep based on recent sleep patterns. By analyzing metrics like sleep pressure and circadian rhythm from the past three days, the watch offers personalized recommendations to improve sleep quality.
This can be especially useful for people who struggle with irregular sleeping schedules or have difficulty falling asleep consistently.
❤️ Vascular Load Monitoring
With the Vascular Load feature, Galaxy Watches can now assess the level of stress experienced by the heart and blood vessels during sleep. This metric serves as an early indicator of cardiovascular health.
Large fluctuations in vascular load may point to underlying issues, making this tool valuable for users looking to monitor their heart condition more closely.
🏃♂️ Running Coach
Designed for runners of all levels, the Running Coach provides a personalized training plan based on your current fitness level. After running for just 12 minutes, the watch analyzes key performance indicators and assigns a score.
Based on that score, it creates a step-by-step plan to help users safely work toward longer distances — even up to marathon level.
🍎 Antioxidant Index
The Antioxidant Index uses a light-based sensor to measure carotenoid levels in the skin — antioxidants found in colorful fruits and vegetables known to protect against aging and cellular damage.
In just five seconds, the device delivers a quick report showing how diet and nutrition are impacting overall wellness. It’s a simple but effective way to track the benefits of healthy eating habits.
📱 Eligible Devices and Requirements
The beta is available for Galaxy Watch5 and newer models in the U.S. and South Korea. However, not all features are supported across every model:
- Bedtime Guidance : Available on Galaxy Watch5 and later; requires Android 11+ and Samsung Health v6.30.2 or higher.
- Vascular Load : Supported on Galaxy Watch Ultra and later; needs Android 10+ and Samsung Health v6.30.2 or higher.
- Running Coach : Available on Galaxy Watch7 and newer; requires Android 10+ and Samsung Health v6.30.2 or higher.
- Antioxidant Index : Limited to Galaxy Watch Ultra and later; compatible with Android 10+ and Samsung Health v6.30.2 or higher.
🔧 How to Join the Beta Program
If you own a Galaxy Watch5 or newer , here’s how to enroll:
- Open the Samsung Members app on your smartphone.
- Scroll down to the bottom of the page.
- Tap on the Watch Beta poster .
- Enroll in the beta program.
Keep in mind that seats are limited , so it’s best to register early. Once enrolled, your watch should receive the update automatically.
While this version is still in beta, it gives users a sneak peek into what’s coming next from Samsung in terms of health tracking and personal wellness tools. A full global rollout of the stable One UI 8 Watch update is expected later this year, likely alongside new Galaxy wearable releases.