Samsung May Introduce Paywalled Features for Galaxy Watch with New Subscription Plans

Samsung Considers Paid Subscription for Advanced Galaxy Watch Features

Samsung is reportedly exploring the introduction of a premium subscription service for its Galaxy Watch series, potentially placing some advanced health and fitness features behind a paywall. This move would align Samsung with other industry leaders like Fitbit Premium and Garmin Connect Plus, as wearable manufacturers increasingly turn to service-based revenue models.

Enhanced Health Tracking Arrives with One UI 8 Watch

With the upcoming One UI 8 Watch update, Samsung plans to deliver an array of new wellness and fitness capabilities to Galaxy Watch users. Highlighted features include Vascular Load metrics for vascular health monitoring, enhanced Bedtime Guidance for improved sleep analysis, antioxidant detection, and other advanced health insights. However, according to Dr. Hon Pak, Samsung’s head of digital health, some of these cutting-edge tools may become part of a paid Samsung Health subscription in the near future.

Comparisons to Fitbit and Garmin Subscriptions

Samsung’s potential subscription model is expected to resemble offerings from competitors, granting access to exclusive analytics, personalized recommendations, and deeper health insights. While specific features destined for paywall access have not been disclosed, Samsung assures that all existing Samsung Health features on current devices will remain free for now. New features introduced through One UI 8 Watch, however, may require a paid plan — especially on older Galaxy Watch models, with newer models possibly retaining complimentary access.

Market Relevance and User Impact

This strategic shift comes nearly a year after Samsung first discussed the possibility of premium health services at its July 2024 Unpacked event. The company emphasized that currently available Samsung Health tools would remain subscription-free, but future innovations could come with new terms.

Additionally, alongside these changes, Samsung is also expected to announce paid tiers for its AI-driven Galaxy features after 2025, reflecting growing industry trends toward monetizing advanced software capabilities. For tech enthusiasts and professionals, these changes emphasize the evolving value proposition of wearable technology and the important role software subscriptions play in digital innovation.