Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 and 8 Classic announced

Samsung debuts Galaxy Watch 8 and Watch 8 Classic, prompting questions about upgrade value.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 launch raises concerns about upgrades

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 and Watch 8 Classic, launched on July 25, feature upgrades aimed at encouraging users to replace older models. These watches come equipped with the 3nm Exynos W1000 chip, improved health tracking capabilities, and new Samsung Health features. Despite their enhancements, the Watch 8 shares many components with the Galaxy Watch 7, raising doubts about whether current owners should upgrade. Owners of the Galaxy Watch 4 and 5 are likely to feel a stronger urge to trade up due to diminishing software support for their devices. Samsung's marketing strategy offers tempting trade-in deals, providing $150 to $250 credit for older models.

While the Galaxy Watch 8 presents an appealing array of features, the similarity to previous models leaves potential buyers cautious. The decision to lock certain health metrics to newer models feels like a tactic to ensure continued sales rather than enhancing user experience. This could alienate loyal customers who expect consistent support from a brand they trust. The strategy might initially boost sales, but it risks undermining customer loyalty and could harm Samsung’s reputation in the long term.

Highlights

Samsung's approach may influence the future of user loyalty in tech.