First look with the Galaxy Watch 9: I took it on a run in London - here's what I learned

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I went for a run with the Galaxy Watch 9 while visiting London.

Samsung added several helpful features, such as hydration tracking.

Ultimately, it's an intelligent workout companion that's lighter (and classier) than the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2.

As a tourist, there's one thing I try to do on each trip I go on -- go for a run to see some sights (and get in a few hours of exercise). So, of course, while I was in London for Galaxy Unpacked, I decided to go on a run with the Galaxy Watch 9, Samsung's newest smartwatch it unveiled on Wednesday.

I had been testing the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 for around a week before I got my hands on the Galaxy Watch 9. While I enjoyed the rugged design of the Watch Ultra 2, I'll be honest, it is a honker of a smartwatch, and its chunky build doesn't necessarily work with my wardrobe or vibe. The Watch 9, though? Well, it's a match.

Also: Everything announced at Samsung Unpacked 2026: New foldables, smartwatches, and smart glasses

For starters, it's smaller and more comfortable to wear. The white band and silver case look great, and it's just the type of exercise smartwatch I want, something that's style-minded but still functional as a workout companion. Here are my thoughts as I wore it on my run around Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park.

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