Images: Samsung, and writer.
As far as first impressions go, could the Samsung Galaxy Watch8 sway me into finally converting to a smartwatch? Honestly, it’s getting there. And that has everything to do with its beautiful design.
Modern Elegance
From the get-go, I’m loving this new profile. Previous iterations of the Galaxy Watch carried circular cases, which were alright. But this new cushion shape, with a circle within a soft square, is just right up my alley. It’s smooth, it’s sexy, it’s modern. Major plus points as far as first impressions go.

Reviewing the design of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 40 mm, in Graphite
Another big difference from previous models, the Galaxy Watch8 showcases Samsung’s thinnest profile yet. Samsung engineers have created an 11% slimmer design through complete internal restructuring. Moreover, this thinness adds to the beauty and comfort of the aforementioned cushion design.
Furthermore, the Dynamic Lug system moves naturally with the wrist, an innovation that ensures superior stability when worn. Greater stability equals greater tracking accuracy and better results.
Comfort & Accuracy
Seeing as lightness is a key Samsung feature with its current roll-out, no surprise then that the Galaxy Watch8 feels almost weightless. At just 30 g, it doesn’t anchor the wrist like my current watch. Which is important for when I’m typing away on the keyboard.
This also means that it won’t get in the way of a good night’s sleep. After all, the Galaxy Watch8’s true magic lies in its health capabilities, and it’s the sleep analysis features that I’m most eager to try out.
With the Galaxy Watch8, its groundbreaking BioActive Sensor offers deeper, more accurate insights into one’s wellbeing. Notably, the Bedtime Guidance measures our circadian rhythm for optimal sleep timing. Paired with the Samsung health app, what this means is I’ll get a personal Sleep Therapist to advise on how to get the best sleep based on my as-of-now erratic slumber.
There’s also Vascular Load monitoring that tracks stress levels on the cardiovascular system during rest. Better still, for the first time in smartwatches, the Antioxidant Index measures carotenoid levels in just five seconds. It’s a breakthrough designed to help the user make informed lifestyle choices for healthy ageing.
Smart Integration
Importantly, the Galaxy Watch8 debuts with Gemini AI assistant built-in—another first for smartwatches. So voice commands control Samsung Health, Calendar, and Clock apps effortlessly. Simply say “Start a 30-minute run” and the Watch8 begins to track your workout effortlessly.
This particular Samsung Galaxy Watch8 in 40 mm sizes retails for RM1,299, and comes in elegant Graphite or Silver finishes. To get your hands on one yourself, and to discover the breadth of the Samsung Galaxy Watch8 collection, visit here.
abd. aziz draim
Currently the creative director of BAZAAR, Aziz has been helming architecture, fashion, and design magazines for two decades now, and he’s been doing it in two languages to boot. Citing Rei Kawakubo, Vivienne Westwood and Jean Paul Gaultier as his earliest fashion gurus, this amateur poet believes that nobody deserves an ugly pair of shoes.