Samsung Electronics is strengthening its healthcare-based Galaxy ecosystem, starting with the new Galaxy Watch 8. Launched on the 25th of last month, the Watch 8 is equipped with numerous features to manage overall health, including sleep, cardiovascular health, and antioxidant levels.
On the morning of the 7th, Samsung Electronics held a press conference at the Taepyeongro Building in Jung-gu, Seoul, to explain the key healthcare features of the Watch 8. Choi Jong-min, executive director of the MX Business Division Health Hardware Development Group, noted, "The biggest advantage of a smartwatch is that it can continuously monitor my health status since it is always worn," and described it as a "companion" device that shares daily life.
Samsung Electronics has equipped the Watch 8 with the world's first feature to measure antioxidant levels. Using a bioactive sensor, it measures the level of carotenoids, an antioxidant component in the body, in just 5 seconds and indicates whether it is insufficient or at an adequate level. Skin carotenoids can also serve as a significant marker for the prevention of cancer and various chronic diseases.
In terms of vascular health management, the device analyzes the 'vascular stress' level based on biometric data measured during sleep, and notifies the user if there are significant changes compared to baseline. The electrocardiogram (ECG) measurement function also detects abnormal signs such as ectopic beats to proactively respond to warning signals.
The newly introduced 'sleep time guide' feature is also noteworthy. When users wear the watch and record their sleep for three days, it analyzes their biological rhythms and sleep needs to recommend the optimal bedtime. This feature is based on the 'two-process' sleep model and aids in improving sleep quality.
Since 2013, Samsung Electronics has embarked on the development of wearable sensors and algorithms, first implementing them in the Galaxy Gear that same year, and has continued to enhance the technology. This year, they explained that the Watch 8 series has improved design and wearing comfort, successfully balancing functionality and ease of use.
According to the company, to increase the reliability of the healthcare functions, they have assigned biomedical engineers and medical professionals to the development team. They are also continuing collaborations with domestic and international universities and medical institutions. Recently, they expanded the Galaxy ecosystem by acquiring the U.S. digital healthcare company Xealth to integrate with hospital systems.
Attention is also on the competition with the Apple Watch, which is rumored to release a new product in September. In response to a question about the advantages of the Galaxy Watch compared to competitor products, Choi emphasized, "Last year, we were the first to receive approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for a sleep apnea early detection feature, and since then, competitors have followed suit," adding, "We are focused on what new features can be added to the Galaxy Watch to provide benefits to consumers."
Choi said, "While the current healthcare system is treatment-centric, Samsung aims for a shift toward prevention-centered care," and added, "We will strive to ensure that the Galaxy Watch seamlessly integrates into users' daily lives by monitoring health status and providing insights."