Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 leak reveals a new look, ditching the classic circle design

Samsung Galaxy Watch

Samsung appears ready to break with tradition. According to leaked images found within the One UI 8 Watch firmware, the upcoming Galaxy Watch 8 series will abandon the fully circular design that’s defined Samsung’s smartwatches for years.

Spotted by Android Authority, the leak includes renders tied to two codenames: “Fresh8” (Galaxy Watch 8) and “Wise8” (Galaxy Watch 8 Classic). Both devices showcase a new “squircle” body—essentially a square with rounded corners—that bears a striking resemblance to the Galaxy Watch Ultra’s form factor. While the display itself remains circular, the watch casing is now more angular, with buttons that protrude slightly more than on previous models.

The standard Watch 8 features two buttons, whereas the Classic sports three, much like the Ultra. This has led to speculation that the Classic may retain the signature rotating bezel, which could be the primary differentiator from the Ultra despite their similar chassis.

Samsung’s shift toward this new design language isn’t exactly a surprise. The company recently teased a “new and innovative design” for the Galaxy Watch line during its Q1 earnings call, along with promises of enhanced health features and a broader product range to cover more price points.

If these leaks hold true, the Galaxy Watch 8 may represent Samsung’s biggest smartwatch design shake-up since the original Galaxy Gear. Fans of the old look may be divided, but one thing’s clear: Samsung is going bold with the Watch 8.