Samsung has started rolling out the first software update for the Galaxy Watch 7 in the United States. The update, identified by firmware version L315USQU1AXG2, is about 165MB. It aims to address several performance issues.
The official changelog states that the new software improves battery charging stability and life. Many Galaxy Watch 7 users have reported issues with battery drains, which this update is expected to fix. The smartwatch’s overall stability should also see enhancements.
The update was initially released to some network carriers in the US. The Bluetooth-only version of the Galaxy Watch 7 is already receiving it. If you own a Galaxy Watch 7 in the US, you can check for the software update by opening the Galaxy Wearable app.
Go to Watch Settings, then Watch Software Update, and select Download and Install. The update was first reported last week and is expected to roll out to other countries in the coming days.
Users worldwide should expect to receive the update soon. The Galaxy Watch 7 is not an ambitious smartwatch, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s a stalwart constant in a year when other devices have pushed boundaries.
The base Galaxy Watch is very wearable. The 40mm Watch 7 allows for a good fit, which is necessary for features like the new FDA-cleared sleep apnea detection.
Galaxy Watch 7 software update
The greatest weakness of the Galaxy Watch 7 is battery life. Even after Samsung’s battery calibration period, it only lasts around 24 hours on a single charge, which hasn’t changed much from previous Galaxy Watches.
However, the 7 can reliably last an entire day, whereas before, it was occasionally a struggle to do even that. Fast charging helps, but heavy GPS users and those who keep the always-on display enabled might find the battery life lacking. The 44mm Watch 7 has a bigger battery for those who need it.
The Watch 7 hasn’t changed much in terms of hardware. The main difference is the new 3nm Exynos W1000 chip and an upgraded 3-in-1 BioActive Sensor. It runs Wear OS 5 and One UI 6 Watch out of the box.
Performance is snappy, though the accuracy gains from the new sensor aren’t very noticeable. Most of what’s new comes from health features like AI-powered wellness insights, an Energy Score, sleep apnea detection, and an AGEs metric for metabolic health. These features are hit or miss.
The double pinch gesture for dismissing alerts, taking calls, or controlling your camera is also highlighted more this year. The Galaxy Watch 7 is here for folks upgrading from an older Galaxy Watch who want to futureproof with a 7 instead of getting a discounted 6. It’s for people who think the Ultra is too much watch for their needs or wrist.
It’s not exciting, but you know what you’re going to get: a good smartwatch. There’s value in that as well.
