Samsung Galaxy Watch Health Features Might Soon Require a Paid Subscription

Samsung Galaxy Watch users may soon face subscription fees to access key health and fitness features that were previously included with the smartwatch. In a recent interview with CNET, Dr. Hon Pak, Samsung's Senior Vice President, confirmed the tech giant is actively considering a premium health subscription model for its popular wearable devices, signaling a potential shift in the Galaxy Watch experience.

What's Changing for Galaxy Watch Users?

For years, Samsung Galaxy Watch owners have enjoyed comprehensive health tracking capabilities, including advanced metrics for sleep, exercise, and heart health, all at no extra cost beyond the initial device purchase. That model could be changing soon. Samsung is reportedly exploring a subscription system—similar to Fitbit Premium and Garmin Connect+—where users pay a monthly fee to unlock advanced functionalities such as AI-powered coaching, personalized health insights, deeper analytics, and potentially even exclusive new tools.

Based on Dr. Pak's comments, it appears that newly purchased Galaxy Watches may come with these premium features already activated, at least initially. However, existing users—those who invested in a device expecting lifetime access to health tracking—may need to subscribe to maintain the same level of functionality in the future.

Comparing Samsung's Potential Strategy: What Are Rivals Doing?

Apple Watch

Apple opts for an add-on service with Fitness+, available for $9.99/month. The core Apple Watch experience—tracking steps, heart rate, and essential health data—remains free, while Fitness+ focuses on guided workouts and fitness classes. Apple does not lock core health features behind a paywall, providing a strong baseline for all users.

Fitbit

Fitbit, owned by Google, employs a "freemium" model. Basic activity and health tracking are available to all, but features like personalized insights, wellness reports, and deeper health metrics require a Fitbit Premium subscription ($9.99/month). Fitbit has been upfront about these tiers since inception, setting clear expectations for its user base.

Garmin

Garmin initially faced resistance when introducing Connect+ and its $6.99/month premium tier. After feedback, Garmin assured customers that existing features on the Garmin Connect app would stay free, though the direction overall reflects a broader industry trend: enhanced features now often require ongoing payments, beyond the initial device cost.

Why This Matters: Advantages, Use Cases, and the Changing Wearable Landscape

Subscription-based models provide companies with recurring revenue and the ability to continuously enhance digital health ecosystems. For users, they promise more advanced coaching, tailored analytics, and rapid feature updates driven by artificial intelligence. Potential use cases include more effective marathon training, proactive health alerts, or in-depth sleep insights—valuable for athletes and everyday health enthusiasts alike.

However, this shift could be frustrating for loyal Samsung Galaxy Watch owners who valued one-time purchases with permanent feature access. The wearables market is clearly moving toward a world where ongoing costs are increasingly bundled with digital health and fitness benefits.

Bottom Line: Prepare for Health Tracking to Come With a Price

For existing and prospective Samsung smartwatch users, the possibility of upcoming health subscription fees is a wake-up call. As the landscape evolves, it’s important to research and consider long-term costs when investing in digital health wearables. While Samsung has not yet implemented these changes, Galaxy Watch owners should stay tuned for official announcements—and be prepared for advanced health and fitness features to soon require a monthly payment.