Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra Upgrade Process Reveals Smoother Setup, Minor Hiccups

A Samsung user’s detailed account of switching to the Galaxy Watch Ultra highlights a significantly refined setup process. The experience, moving from a three-generation-old Galaxy Watch 4, was largely seamless. This real-world test showcases the evolution of Samsung’s wearable ecosystem and its current strengths and weaknesses.

The transition was initiated with a prompt pop-up on a paired Galaxy S23 Ultra. The entire pairing and data transfer process was notably faster and more fluid than previous iterations. According to the user’s report, the Smart Switch feature successfully restored most data in under ten minutes.

Galaxy Watch Upgrade Process Streamlined

The setup was impressively smooth from the start. The user received the new watch with a day-one update to One UI 8 Watch based on Wear OS 6 ready to install. This immediate access to the latest software was a positive start. The data transfer via Smart Switch was a highlight, moving apps, logs, layouts, and permissions efficiently.

This restoration of the user’s digital ecosystem was nearly comprehensive. It demonstrates a clear improvement in Samsung’s backend migration tools. The process shows a matured understanding of what users need when upgrading their wearable devices.

New Health Features and Minor Setbacks

Samsung effectively introduced new health functionalities during the setup. Features like the Energy Score and Running Coach were explained to help users immediately understand their utility. The Samsung Health Monitor app also required an update, ensuring all tracking tools were current.

However, the process was not entirely flawless. The user encountered a few persistent annoyances. Watch face customizations, including color themes and complications, did not carry over from the old device. This forced a manual reconfiguration, a notable inconvenience for those who value personalization.

Remaining Rough Edges in the Ecosystem

Further minor issues included a snag with eSIM activation that required a later revisit. Google’s Gemini assistant also took extra time to configure properly. These hiccups, while not catastrophic, indicate that the perfect, frictionless upgrade is still elusive for Samsung.

The Galaxy Wearable app did help by showcasing new watch faces available with the update. Yet, each face needed to be manually downloaded instead of being included in the system update. This adds another small, unnecessary step for the user completing their setup.

The overall Galaxy Watch upgrade process is now highly polished but retains a few quality-of-life gaps. Samsung has made tremendous strides in creating a smooth transition for loyal customers. Perfecting these final details would solidify its position as a top-tier wearable ecosystem provider.

Info at your fingertips

What is the Smart Switch process like for Galaxy Watches?

The Smart Switch process transfers most user data from an old Galaxy Watch to a new one. It typically moves apps, call logs, home screen layouts, and permissions. The transfer is usually completed within 8 to 10 minutes.

Does everything transfer from an old Galaxy Watch?

Not everything transfers perfectly during the switch. Watch face customizations, including color themes and complications, often do not carry over. You will likely need to manually reconfigure your preferred watch face after the setup is complete.

What new software does the Galaxy Watch Ultra run?

The Galaxy Watch Ultra ships with One UI 8 Watch, which is based on the Wear OS 6 platform. Users often receive a day-one software update to ensure they are running the latest version immediately after unboxing the device.

Are there any common setup issues?

Some users report minor issues like eSIM activation requiring a second attempt. Configuring Google’s Gemini assistant can also take a few extra minutes. These are generally resolvable but can slightly disrupt an otherwise smooth process.

Why did the watch faces need manual installation?

New watch faces introduced with the software update were highlighted in the Galaxy Wearable app. However, they required a manual download instead of being pre-installed with the system update, adding an extra step for the user.