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The Running Coach on the Galaxy Watch 8 needs to be kicked to the curb. I'm not expecting an Olympic endorsement deal anytime soon, but after 20 years of running (four half marathons, multiple 10K and 5Ks), I'd hope to graduate beyond "beginner." Not according to Samsung's latest watch. Either it's using a rigid set of criteria to assign training plans, or it's gaslighting me on purpose to tap into my competitive streak. Whatever the case, Running Coach left me questioning its usefulness and cast a gray cloud over my running experience. Something seemed off, so I checked in with Samsung and am still waiting to hear back.
Running Coach aside, the $350 Galaxy Watch 8 ($50 more than last year's Galaxy Watch 7) gets a lot of other things right, and I still recommend it to anyone looking for a solid Wear OS smartwatch. One of the biggest surprises: Gemini. This is the first smartwatch to come with Google's AI assistant built in, and the voice assistant actually feels useful on the wrist. It's also one of the most comfortable watches I've ever worn (though not the most stylish). It has nearly every feature I could hope for, including a screen that's blindingly bright and new health sensors for more accurate health tracking.
8.2 / 10
SCORE Galaxy Watch 8 $350 at Samsung Pros Dual sizing options that fit well on smaller wrists
Comfortable, lightweight design
Gemini assistant is fast and genuinely helpful
New health sensors offer more accurate insights
Bright display is visible in direct sunlight Cons Price is $50 more than the Galaxy Watch 7
Squared frame isn't for everyone
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