Samsung’s next rugged smartwatch could deliver a major connectivity upgrade, with new reports suggesting the upcoming Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 may become the first Galaxy smartwatch capable of connecting directly to 5G networks.
If the rumours prove accurate, the update would represent a notable shift for Samsung’s wearable lineup, which has historically relied on LTE connectivity rather than full 5G network support.
The original Galaxy Watch Ultra debuted in 2024 as Samsung’s most durable smartwatch, designed for outdoor enthusiasts and extreme activities where reliable connectivity and rugged hardware are especially important.
Although a refreshed model appeared in 2025, many observers believe the lineup is now due for a more substantial hardware upgrade rather than another incremental revision.
New chip could unlock faster connectivity
According to recent reports, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 may introduce a significant internal change by moving away from Samsung’s in-house Exynos smartwatch processors.
Instead, the device is expected to use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear Elite platform, which includes an integrated 5G modem capable of connecting to faster mobile networks.
That upgrade could allow the smartwatch to deliver quicker data speeds, improved streaming performance and more reliable connectivity when used independently from a paired smartphone.
The Snapdragon Wear Elite chip is built on a 3nm manufacturing process and includes a five-core CPU, faster graphics capabilities and an integrated neural processing unit designed to accelerate AI-driven tasks.
Another capability of the processor is satellite connectivity support, though it remains unclear whether Samsung will enable it on the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, which could allow the watch to send emergency signals or location data in remote areas without cellular coverage.
If Samsung follows the same strategy used with the previous Ultra model, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 may only be sold in a cellular configuration rather than offering a Bluetooth-only version.
That approach would align with the device’s positioning as a smartwatch designed for outdoor adventures, where standalone connectivity can be particularly useful.
Samsung has not officially confirmed the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 yet, but rumours suggest the next generation of Galaxy Watch devices could arrive alongside the company’s upcoming foldable phones later this year.
