Joe Maring / Android Authority

256GB of base storage will become the norm because Apple just made it the norm.

Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

The base price of $799 is a lie at 128GB. It artificially limits how much and how long you can use all of your phone’s awesome features.

What you need to know

• Samsung was spotted rolling out an update for its Camera Assistant app on Galaxy that surprisingly mentions “3D capture” and its “Galaxy XR headset.”
• The feature says users can “create spatial photos and videos for Galaxy XR headsets,” though it’s not working properly just yet.
• A report from August claimed Samsung is preparing to debut its Project Moohan headset on September 29.

Samsung’s premium XR headset looks a little more real after a recent update to a Galaxy app adds surprising support.

A post by SamMobile highlights an update for Samsung’s Camera Assistant app on its Galaxy phones, which directly mentions “Galaxy XR headsets.” When activated, the publication discovered a floating banner on the phone’s viewfinder that says “3D capture.” Additionally, at the top, the app informs the user that there needs to be more light before it can take a “3D photo.”

In Camera Assistant’s settings, the 3D capture feature’s description reads, “Add a 3D capture option to the top of the preview so you can create spatial photos and videos for Galaxy XR headsets.”

While this seems exciting, the publication had to go through some hoops before it could even see the feature in this capacity. Reportedly, the update for Camera Assistant, v4.0.0.3, has only rolled out for the recent Galaxy S25 FE; however, it could only be activated after transferring the updated app to a Galaxy S25 Ultra.

The safest (and current) speculation is that Samsung is still finalizing this software in preparation for its XR headset.

Getting ready for Galaxy XR?

The hype has been building for Samsung’s Galaxy XR headset, which we’ve known as Project Moohan for a while now. A report from the end of August out of South Korea claimed Samsung could announce Project Moohan on September 29. Speculation says the company could follow this up with a market launch in mid-October in South Korea before other markets.

Those same rumors add that Project Moohan could cost somewhere between “2.5 and 4 million won,” which roughly equates to $1,800–$2,800. Comparisons to Apple’s Vision Pro continue to be made, and it seems Samsung’s headset could see under the competition’s $3,500 price tag.

Google had Samsung’s Galaxy XR headset at its I/O event earlier this year, where Android Central had a chance to demo the product. The headset earned top marks for visuals and “natural” navigation across its apps. If Samsung is preparing to launch, we’re only a few weeks away from seeing it.

What you need to know

• Samsung’s One UI 8 beta is spreading fast, and is now on the Galaxy S23/S24, mid-range A-series, and foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 5/6 and Z Flip 5/6.
• The rollout is currently taking place only in South Korea for now.
• If you’re outside Korea, the beta isn’t officially out yet, but the rollout hints it’s coming soon.

Samsung’s One UI 8 beta is now reaching more phones. The program yesterday expanded beyond its initial rollout to include the Galaxy S23 series and a selection of mid-range models like the Galaxy A55, A54, A35, and A34. Access is also now live for the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5.

Samsung’s Korean Community forum confirms the One UI 8 beta is live for those two-year-old foldable phones. Tarun Vats shared news of the rollout on X (via SamMobile).

This update weaves Galaxy AI deeper into your devices to simplify everyday actions. You’ll find major upgrades to productivity tools and a tighter, more seamless connection with Galaxy tablets and wearables.

It also brings a fresh layer of personalization, giving you more control over your themes, lock screen, and widgets. Underneath it all, refined animations and transitions make every interaction feel noticeably smoother.

You can join the beta through the Samsung Members app to preview the Android 16-based update early. As the screenshot shows, it’s a sizable download at over 3GB.

Once you’re enrolled in the beta, head to Settings > Software update > Download and install. When it’s done downloading, tap “Install now” to start the update.

The One UI 8 beta is already live for the Galaxy S25 and S24 series, plus the Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6. Samsung previously confirmed the stable release would drop in September, starting with the S25 lineup, and will reach more Galaxy devices worldwide in October with Android 16 features and fresh One UI tweaks.

There’s no timeline yet for Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip 5 owners outside Korea, but this launch suggests a broader rollout is just around the corner, likely only a few days away.

Andy Walker / Android Authority

How to install Google Journal on a non-Pixel phone

Andy Walker / Android Authority

Without the AI, Google Journal nails the basics

Andy Walker / Android Authority

Using Google Journal on a Samsung phone is an AI-free experience.

Andy Walker / Android Authority

There are still better options for journaling on Android

Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority

Wilder World is leveling up. The metaverse gaming project has officially launched its first-person shooter (FPS) mode in Super Early Access at Gamescom 2025. Backed by Samsung, the launch includes a global $100,000 tournament and introduces a new way to explore its growing digital world.

Key Takeaways

• Wilder World’s FPS mode is now live in Super Early Access at Gamescom 2025

• A $100K tournament is running through September, with a live final on September 24

• Samsung-branded NFTs are available to Gamescom attendees via NFC tap-ins

• The FPS adds a new dimension to Wilder World’s evolving metaverse

• The WILD token ecosystem continues to grow through new initiatives

Gamescom Launch and Samsung Integration

On August 20, Gamescom attendees got a first look—and hands-on play—with Wilder World’s new FPS mode, set in Wiami, a massive digital city built in Unreal Engine 5. The sharp visuals and fast action introduce a fresh style of gameplay for the Wilder community. It’s the first time players can experience Wiami through the lens of a tactical shooter.

The tournament is open to all players, with qualifiers running from August 25 to September 9, followed by playoffs from September 10 to 15. The top five finalists will be flown in, all expenses paid, for the grand finale on September 24 at a still-undisclosed location, where they’ll compete for the $100K prize pool.

Samsung is a major partner for the launch, offering on-site rewards to Gamescom attendees. By tapping NFC towers, players can claim a Samsung-branded POAP NFT—short for “Proof of Attendance Protocol.” It’s a digital badge that also works as a playable in-game item that can be used across the Wilder World metaverse.

Source: Wilder World

Expanding Wilder World’s Universe

Wilder World got on the map with its 2024 racing game, Wilder Wheels. Now, the team is stepping into one of gaming’s most competitive genres. The addition of FPS gameplay is designed to broaden the platform’s appeal while sticking with core Web3 ideas—like asset ownership, user-made content, and a community-driven economy.

This latest launch builds on recent momentum for the WILD token. Highlights include the Lamborghini Temerario NFT collection selling out in just four minutes, the launch of Wiami.fun for user-generated assets, and Operation Titan, a multi-million-dollar WILD buyback program.

Other updates, like Metropolis and CYPHER, show the team’s ongoing push to grow the ecosystem and keep players and investors engaged.

Wilder World has also been featured in the Epic Games Store’s Top 10 Most Anticipated Games, alongside several big-name Web2 titles. With strong visuals, Web3 functionality, and active community support, it’s working to stand out in a crowded market.

Final Thoughts

Speaking about the launch, Wilder World co-founder and executive producer n3o put it this way:

“The $100K tournament isn’t just about esports—it’s a global stage to show the world that Wilder World is building at the frontier of gaming and the metaverse.”

Wilder World’s FPS debut brings together competitive gameplay, digital rewards, and support from a global tech brand. Whether it signals a shift in mainstream Web3 adoption or not, it’s a clear example of how blockchain and gaming continue to intersect in new and creative ways.

Andy Walker / Android Authority

Additional health features

Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

Galaxy AI

Andy Walker / Android Authority

Bixby

Andy Walker / Android Authority

Modes and Routines

Ryan Haines / Android Authority

Camera Control

Andy Walker / Android Authority

The perfect complement to a Samsung Galaxy smartphone is a Samsung Galaxy smartwatch. If you’re looking to get something on the upper end of the scale, the decision comes down to the Samsung Galaxy Watch 2025 vs. Galaxy Watch 8 Classic.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 2025 is a slightly upgraded version of Samsung’s first rugged smartwatch model launched in summer 2024, while the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is the larger, highest-end version in the new standard line. The question becomes: is the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 worth the extra coin? Let’s find out.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 vs. Galaxy Watch 8 Classic: Design and durability

Why you can trust Android Central


Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

First, let’s look at, well, looks. The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 is the largest Samsung Galaxy smartwatch, thicker than the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic. But it also happens to be a smidge lighter. Both have three buttons, including a Quick Button for accessing frequently used options.

The biggest difference is that the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra has a digital-only bezel, whereas the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic adds a rotating bezel. Considering Andrew Myrick notes in his initial Galaxy Watch 8 hands-on that the rotating bezel is his favorite way of interacting with a smartwatch, this will be a big deal for a lot of people like him.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 comes in four titanium finishes: Silver, Gray, White, and a new one: Blue. It has a large 1.5-inch AMOLED screen housed in a squircle design that affords up to 3,000 nits peak brightness. The screen is made from sapphire crystal, and the watch itself is as rugged as they come, meeting an IP68 and an impressive 10ATM rating as well as MIL-STD-810H standards for durability.

In terms of battery life, it has a 590mAh battery, the same as the previous generation model, which means it should last about four days in power savings mode, about two with frequent workout tracking, and more.

By comparison, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic comes in basic Black or White, though you can spruce it up with various band types (sport, fabric, or hybrid as well as third-party options). It employs a thin and cushioned design that has been brought over from the original Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra.

This squircle design change is immediately noticeable, and Myrick notes that it’s one that grew on him after he became accustomed to it with last year’s Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra after wearing that model for a while. As noted, along with the Dynamic Lug System, the big differentiator is the inclusion of a handy rotating bezel on this watch.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic has a smaller 1.34-inch Super AMOLED sapphire crystal display with the same 3,000 nits peak brightness. It boasts both IP68 and MIL-STD-810H certification, but it isn’t quite as water-resistant for deep diving with “only” a 5ATM rating.

The battery is also smaller at 445mAh, and while Samsung doesn’t note its rated battery life, you can expect to charge it at least every day or two if it falls in line with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 Classic, which has a slightly smaller battery.

There’s an LTE option with both watches as well as Bluetooth 5.3 and NFC for tap payments. While the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 is more expensive, there are trade-in deals with older model Samsung Galaxy Watches (not the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2024 at the time of this writing) that can save you a few bucks.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 vs. Galaxy Watch 8 Classic: Specs

Let’s look at how these two smartwatches compare when it comes to basic specs.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 vs. Galaxy Watch 8 Classic: Health, wellness, and smarts

When it comes to the internals of these two smartwatches, what they can track and what you can do with them are pretty much identical. Both run on an Exynos W1000 processor and come loaded with Wear OS 6. Both have 64GB storage (that’s double that of the 2024 edition of the Galaxy Watch Ultra) and 2GB RAM.

Both track all the usual suspects when it comes to health, wellness, and vitals, thanks to the inclusion of a Samsung BioActive sensor. This includes workouts, calorie burn, activity levels, sleep, stress, temperature, heart rate, blood oxygen, and more. They offer tailored sleep coaching, an area where Samsung has been upping the ante. This includes the ability to detect moderate to severe signs of sleep apnea.

There’s also Vascular Load tracking, which monitors your stress levels during sleep, and Antioxidant Index to measure your carotenoid levels. These relate to dietary intake and metabolism, and the data can help you make more informed lifestyle choices.

To use the latter, you need to remove the watch and place your finger on the underside sensor, which isn’t ideal, but it’s worth doing if cartenoid level measurements are important to you. High Stress Alerts will ping you if either watch notices your stress levels are too high, prompting you to take a breath. There’s also a mindfulness tracker and energy score.

Runners will love the Running Coach, which calculates your fitness level on a scale from one to 10 and delivers a customized and personalized training plan with real-time guidance and motivational insights to help you along on your journey. Using Together, you can also challenge friends and family for further motivation. Both also incorporate dual-frequency GPS for tracking your runs, hikes, walks, cycles, and other outdoor activities.

One big update with both the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is the inclusion of Google Gemini out of the box, replacing the outdated Google Assistant smart voice assistant. With this, you can summon Gemini with natural voice commands, whether that’s to initiate a workout, check on your calendar, or simply ask questions about what’s going on around you. Samsung worked closely with Google to ensure that there’s seamless integration with its first-party Wear OS apps.

Speaking of which, you can also keep on top of things by leveraging the multi-info tiles and Now Bar, which keeps your most crucial notifications front and center.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 vs. Galaxy Watch 8 Classic: Which should you choose?

The decision between the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 vs. Galaxy Watch 8 Classic really comes down to your personal needs and budget. But even if you have the bucks to spare, is the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 worth it?

Let’s consider your biggest upgrades with that model compared to the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic. It’s lighter but also thicker, has a larger display, longer battery life, and is more durable. It’s really designed to be the adventurer’s watch. So, if you’re the type of person who participates in a lot of outdoor sports, especially underwater activities, you’ll find value in it.

The extra battery life is appreciated as well, but if you are already used to charging your smartwatch every day or two, you might be used to that routine anyway. With that said, longer battery life is always appreciated, especially on those days when you’re at 2% right before you’re about to go for a run.

Design and feature-wise, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, as well as its smaller Galaxy Watch 8 sister, is starting to look more like an Ultra model anyway, with the same cushioned and squircle design. However, there’s a key advantage with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic to keep in mind if you would use it: the rotating bezel.

We haven’t yet tested the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 but based on Michael Hicks’ review of the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2024 model), if the iterative update offers even slight improvements, it won’t disappoint. He calls that model “a great smartwatch that’s enjoyable to use,” applauding how powerful and reliable it is. We also named the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra among the best waterproof smartwatches you can buy, and chances are the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 will take its spot on the list.

Interestingly, Hicks said last year that the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra falls between casual and serious users. Given this, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is even more skewed to the casual side, but with all the same features serious users will appreciate, minus the extra battery life and durability, and with a cool rotating bezel. It’s the more elegant-looking of the two watches without sacrificing too much. So, it will likely be the preference for most users.

Bottom line: if you have an older model to trade in and it brings the price of the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 in line with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, it’s worth considering. But it’s not necessary for most people unless you’re heavy into water and other outdoor sports, or you’re a power user where every last minute of battery life counts. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is a lovely medium that affords all the same features at a more affordable price and with a similar yet more stylish design.

If you want something smaller, consider the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8. If you already have the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2024), don’t bother upgrading just yet. It’s not a big enough jump in features to warrant it.