Samsung Puts Galaxy Watch 9 Into Final Testing With Snapdragon Wear Elite

Overview

• A new Samsung server firmware for model SM-L345U, linked by trackers to the Galaxy Watch 9, is what Android Headlines says signals final testing in the United States.
• Qualcomm confirmed the watch will run the 3nm Snapdragon Wear Elite, which targets about 30% lower energy use and adds a neural processor for on-device AI tasks.
• Leaks indicate the 44mm version keeps a 435mAh battery like the Watch 8, so any longer runtime would likely come from the new chip and software tuning rather than a larger cell.
• Reported support for Bluetooth 6.0 and Ultra-Wideband could let the watch work as a secure digital key for cars or home locks.
• Based on Samsung’s yearly release pattern, outlets expect a July 2026 launch alongside new Z Fold and Z Flip models, though Samsung has not confirmed the date or full specs.