Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic: Rotating Bezel Returns, But Chipset Stays the Same?

The iconic rotating bezel is making a comeback on the rumored Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic! Leaks and reports suggest Samsung is bringing back this beloved feature, likely delighting many Galaxy Watch enthusiasts. But will this be enough to overshadow concerns about a potentially aging chipset?

CAD-based renders of the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic have surfaced, showcasing a design heavily inspired by last year's Galaxy Watch Ultra. The renders, initially leaked, reveal a squircle case shape characteristic of the Ultra, and as previously rumored, both the standard Watch 8 and the Classic variant are expected to share this design language.

The Watch 8 Classic is anticipated to be available in a 46/47mm size and powered by a 450mAh battery. It will likely feature a 1.5" round screen and measure approximately 46 x 46.5 x 14.2 mm according source. Both LTE and non-LTE versions are expected to be offered.

Beyond the design, however, whispers from an APK teardown of One UI 8 Watch paint a potentially less exciting picture. Code strings suggest that Samsung might be sticking with the Exynos W1000 chip, the same processor used in the Galaxy Watch 7 series. While One UI 8 Watch is expected to bring new tile previews, including options for Calculator, Buds, and Recorder, using an older chip could be a point of contention for users hoping for a performance boost Source.

The Quick Button, previously seen on the Galaxy Watch Ultra, might gain new functionality, allowing users to start and stop recordings with double-press, long-press, and short-press actions which could provide additional value even if the underlying chipset is not brand new.

The return of the rotating bezel is undeniably a positive move, catering to the desires of many loyal Samsung smartwatch users. The Watch 8 is expected to launch this summer. The new design is nearly identical to Galaxy Watch Ultra. There two buttons on the right side that sandwich the orange action button, along with external speakers on the other side, according to the renders. The back has all of the health tracking sensors, plus the same buttons for unlocking the straps.

The Galaxy Watch 8 and Watch 8 Classic are anticipated to be unveiled in early July, alongside the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7. The reintroduction of rotating bezel and new software feature of One UI 8 Watchis the focus of the product.

Will the return of the rotating bezel and the promise of One UI 8 Watch be enough to entice consumers? Or will the potential lack of a new chipset dampen enthusiasm? Share your thoughts and expectations in the comments below!

• Exynos W1000
• Galaxy Watch 8
• Samsung

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