Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 May Debut with ‘Squircle’ Design, Inspired by Galaxy Watch Ultra

By | May 12, 2025

Samsung is reportedly preparing to refresh its smartwatch design language. The upcoming Galaxy Watch 8 could feature a bold new look — a “squircle” design that combines a round display with a square-shaped frame. This modern twist, said to draw inspiration from the Galaxy Watch Ultra, might reshape how Samsung positions its wearables.

If these leaks prove accurate, Samsung may move beyond its traditional circular watch design to embrace a hybrid form that blends curves and corners, offering both style and functionality.

What is a Squircle Design?

A “squircle” merges the geometry of a square with the softness of a circle. This shape features rounded corners while maintaining a boxier outline, striking a balance between sharpness and fluidity.

Tech companies like Apple have already embraced this aesthetic. However, Samsung seems to be applying the concept in a unique way. While the Galaxy Watch 8 may keep its round screen, it could be set inside a square-ish body — creating a hybrid look that feels both familiar and fresh.

Why Samsung Might Redesign Its Smartwatch

Several reasons could explain Samsung’s interest in switching up its smartwatch design:

  • Maximizing Internal Space: A squircle frame can house larger components. This approach may allow Samsung to include a bigger battery, more advanced sensors, or improved heat management.
  • Creating a Distinct Identity: In a market filled with round and rectangular wearables, Samsung may aim to stand out. A unique frame could give the Galaxy Watch 8 stronger visual recognition while maintaining its legacy round interface.
  • Aligning with the Galaxy Watch Ultra: Reports suggest the Galaxy Watch Ultra, a premium model expected to launch soon, will feature this new design. If Samsung adopts a unified design language across its product line, the Watch 8 might mirror the Ultra’s aesthetics to offer consistency.

What to Expect from the Galaxy Watch 8

Though Samsung hasn’t confirmed specifics, industry insiders and leaks offer some possible features for the Galaxy Watch 8:

  • Round Display, Squared Frame: The design will likely keep the intuitive circular screen while introducing a more angular casing — delivering both tradition and modernity.
  • Better Battery Performance: With more internal space in the squircle body, Samsung may equip the Watch 8 with a larger battery. Users have frequently requested longer battery life, and this could be Samsung’s answer.
  • Advanced Health Tracking: Each Galaxy Watch release improves on fitness features. The Watch 8 may offer upgraded heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and even emerging tech like skin temperature sensing or stress detection.
  • New Software Experience: Samsung will likely run the Galaxy Watch 8 on Wear OS 5, layered with its One UI Watch interface. This combination should deliver smoother interactions, improved app support, and a polished user experience.

Samsung’s Unique Approach — Not Just Copying Apple

It’s tempting to compare the rumored design shift to the Apple Watch, which popularized rectangular wearables. But Samsung appears to be pursuing a different path. Rather than going fully rectangular, it’s blending square and round elements to forge its own identity.

This approach allows the Galaxy Watch 8 to maintain its classic UI while gaining a modern, eye-catching silhouette. Instead of mimicking Apple, Samsung seems to be evolving its design to balance form and function — staying recognizable yet refreshing.

What About the Galaxy Watch Ultra?

Much of the buzz around the squircle design started with leaks about the Galaxy Watch Ultra — a rugged, high-end smartwatch that’s likely to focus on durability and performance. Samsung may target outdoor enthusiasts or fitness-heavy users with this model, similar to Apple’s Watch Ultra.

By debuting the squircle look with the Ultra, Samsung could test its appeal before expanding it across the rest of the lineup. The Galaxy Watch 8 adopting the same frame style would help build a cohesive family of wearables, each catering to different needs but sharing a common visual language.

When to Expect the Launch

Samsung typically unveils its smartwatches during its Galaxy Unpacked summer event, which usually takes place in July. This year, the Galaxy Watch 8 is expected to launch alongside foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7.

As the launch window approaches, more leaks and renders are likely to surface. If Samsung follows its usual pattern, we’ll get official confirmation of the design and features within the next couple of months.

Why This Design Evolution Matters

The wearable tech market continues to evolve rapidly. To stay ahead, brands must innovate not only in terms of software and features but also in how their devices look and feel. With the Galaxy Watch 8, Samsung may be aiming to redefine its design DNA — offering a watch that feels familiar yet fresh.

The squircle frame could signal a broader shift in how Samsung approaches product aesthetics. It may also serve practical purposes — offering more hardware space, durability, and even better comfort on the wrist.

Final Thoughts

Samsung’s rumored shift to a squircle design for the Galaxy Watch 8 reflects its desire to evolve with changing trends while staying true to its core identity. By combining a circular interface with a boxier casing, Samsung could deliver a wearable that balances style, usability, and performance.

As competition intensifies and user expectations grow, Samsung looks ready to bring something new to the table. If the rumors are accurate, the Galaxy Watch 8 might not just be another smartwatch — it could be the start of a bold new design era for the Galaxy Watch series.