Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 2026: Should You Wait or Buy Now?
Samsung just tipped its hand. On April 25, firmware for the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 appeared on internal test servers — confirming that the next-generation premium smartwatch is real, in active development, and headed for a July 2026 launch. The biggest headline: 5G connectivity, a first for any Samsung smartwatch. Here's everything we know and whether you should wait or buy the current Galaxy Watch Ultra today.
Key Upgrade
5G connectivity and Snapdragon Wear Elite processor — the first Samsung smartwatch that can stream and sync independently at full speed.
Expected Launch
Galaxy Unpacked on July 22, 2026. Firmware development started April 25, which lines up with a summer reveal.
Buy Now Instead?
Galaxy Watch Ultra at $639 or Apple Watch Ultra 3 at $609if you can't wait.
What Do the Firmware Leaks Reveal About Galaxy Watch Ultra 2?
The test server entries, first spotted by Sammy Fans and corroborated by Aptivi, list two Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 models:
- SM-L710: Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 (47mm, Bluetooth only) — the base model for users who keep their phone nearby
- SM-L715N: Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 (47mm, 4G/5G) — the premium variant with full cellular independence
A Galaxy Watch 9 (SM-L500 series) was spotted alongside the Ultra 2, confirming Samsung is preparing its full 2026 smartwatch lineup for the same launch window. Both Bluetooth-only and LTE Galaxy Watch 9 variants appeared on the servers.
What Makes 5G on a Smartwatch a Big Deal?
Current LTE smartwatches (including the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and original Galaxy Watch Ultra) use 4G connections that are adequate for calls, messages, and basic streaming. 5G changes the equation in several ways:
- Faster data sync: Health data, maps, and music libraries download near-instantly instead of requiring Wi-Fi
- True standalone streaming: High-quality audio and even video calls become viable without a phone
- Real-time AI processing: Combined with the Snapdragon Wear Elite chip, 5G enables cloud-based AI features like real-time translation and voice assistants with minimal latency
- Emergency connectivity: 5G networks are expanding rapidly, providing more reliable coverage for outdoor activities
The caveat: earlier leaks from SamMobile suggest 5G may initially be US-exclusive, with European markets limited to 4G variants. Battery life impact remains unknown — 5G radios draw more power, and Samsung will need to balance connectivity with the Ultra's multi-day battery promise.
How Does Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 Compare to Apple Watch Ultra 3?
The Apple Watch Ultra 3launched in September 2025 and remains the benchmark for premium smartwatches. Here's how the leaked Ultra 2 specs stack up:
| Feature | Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 (Leaked) | Apple Watch Ultra 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | BT / 4G / 5G | BT / LTE |
| Processor | Snapdragon Wear Elite | Apple S10 |
| Display | AMOLED (sapphire rumored) | OLED, sapphire crystal |
| Case | Titanium (expected) | Titanium |
| Ecosystem | Android (Wear OS 6) | iPhone only (watchOS) |
| Price (Expected) | $649–$749 | $799 ($609 on sale) |
The Ultra 2's 5G advantage is significant, but Apple's ecosystem lock-in means most iPhone users won't switch. For Android users, the Ultra 2 could be the most capable smartwatch ever made. Read our full Apple Watch Ultra 4 analysis for the other side of the coin.
Should You Wait for Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 or Buy Now?
The decision depends on your timeline and priorities:
Wait if:You're an Android user who wants the absolute best smartwatch and can hold out until late July. The 5G connectivity, next-gen processor, and potential health sensor upgrades make the Ultra 2 a meaningful generational leap — not a minor refresh.
Buy now if: You need a smartwatch today, or the current Galaxy Watch Ultra price drops further as the Ultra 2 approaches. At $639 on Amazon, the original Ultra is already a proven performer. You could also consider the Garmin Venu 4 at $549 if battery life matters more than 5G connectivity.
For iPhone users: The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 still requires an Android phone. Your best options remain the Apple Watch Ultra 3 today or waiting for the Apple Watch Ultra 4 expected in September 2026.
Compare all premium smartwatches in our smartwatch comparison guide or use the compare hub to stack specs side by side.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 be released?
Based on firmware development starting April 25, 2026 and the rumored Galaxy Unpacked date of July 22, 2026, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is expected to launch in late July or early August 2026. Samsung has not officially confirmed a date.
Will the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 have 5G?
Yes. Test server entries confirm model SM-L715N with 5G support, making it the first Samsung smartwatch with 5G connectivity. However, 5G may be limited to the US market initially, with Europe receiving a 4G variant.
Should I wait for Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 or buy the original now?
If you can wait roughly three months until July, the Ultra 2 brings meaningful upgrades including 5G, Snapdragon Wear Elite, and potentially sapphire crystal and non-invasive glucose monitoring. If you need a watch now, the original Galaxy Watch Ultra at $639 is still excellent, or consider the Apple Watch Ultra 3 at $609.
How much will the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 cost?
Samsung hasn't announced pricing. The original Galaxy Watch Ultra launched at $649. With the addition of 5G and premium materials, expect the Ultra 2 to start at $649–$749 depending on connectivity options. A Wi-Fi-only variant may come in lower.
What processor will the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 use?
The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is expected to use Qualcomm's Snapdragon Wear Elite processor, announced at MWC 2026. This chip is designed for AI workloads on wearables and offers improved battery efficiency over the current Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1.