What you need to know
- The firmware for the Galaxy Watch 9 (model SM-L345U) has appeared on a test server in the US, which means that the main work is finished.
- The Snapdragon Wear Elite (3nm) chipset could boost performance and battery efficiency for Samsung’s upcoming wearable device.
- The 44mm model is expected to pack a 435mAh battery, although the gain will depend on the new chip.
Samsung’s next smartwatch is already knocking on the door. The firmware for the Galaxy Watch 9 has surfaced, indicating that development is complete and testing has begun.
A device with model number SM-L345U appeared on the US test server Muhammad Khatriand if you’ve been following the leak cycle, you’ve probably heard that this is the case Internal ID for Galaxy Watch 9 (via SamMobile).
In mobile technology, when a firmware appears on a public test server, it’s a clear sign that major development is underway. Now, Samsung’s engineers are apparently focused on fine-tuning the software so that it runs smoothly when the watch goes on sale this summer.
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The Galaxy Watch 8 stood out for its improved shape and better sensor contact, but the Watch 9 is rumored to be even more powerful. Reports suggest that it will use Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset It was recently hinted that it will be in the next Galaxy wearables.
Same battery, better efficiency
Efficiency is the main focus this time. The watch will likely come in regular 40mm and 44mm sizes, and leaks suggest the 44mm version will have a 435mAh battery. While this is the same as the Watch 8, the new 3nm Elite chipset may help the battery last longer.
Don’t expect a drastic change in appearance though. After last year’s redesign, Samsung is apparently focusing on internal improvements and AI-powered fitness training this year.
Samsung released its latest foldable Watch 8 last July, so it’s likely that the Watch 9 will follow suit. An official announcement is expected at the Galaxy Unpacked event in July 2026.
Android Central’s Take
Samsung might want to call it a Garmin-beater, but it’s hard to see what really sets it apart. The Snapdragon Wear Elite chip looks good on paper, and ending development early is nice for engineers, but what does it mean for users? The battery is still 435 mAh, so we’ll have the same low battery concerns after a GPS-heavy workout.
It looks like Samsung is developing the same product. For people who are tired of charging their watches every day, another small update to a familiar form is not a big change. This is a more expensive way to count steps while waiting for an hour that could last a long weekend.
