Samsung Readies Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 LTE; 5G Variant May See Limited Launch

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Samsung may finally launch a 5G-enabled smartwatch this year, with the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 expected to come with 5G cellular connectivity. However, it may not be available as standard, or the company could limit it to select markets. New evidence suggests that Samsung still plans to launch a 4G/LTE variant of the Watch Ultra 2.

Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 could have both 4G and 5G variants

A few weeks ago, a Samsung smartwatch with the model number SM-L716 appeared in the IMEI database. It pointed to the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 with 5G connectivity — the Korean firm typically uses “0” for Wi-Fi-only models, “5” for LTE variants, and “6” for 5G versions (last digit of the model number).

Since 5G cellular networks are now the standard on smartphones, it’s reasonable for Samsung to upgrade its smartwatches too. However, new evidence unearthed by GalaxyClub suggests the company won’t sell the 5G model globally, or make it optional with a higher price tag. The publication spotted a new firmware build for a device carrying the model number SM-L715F, which should be the LTE variant of the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2.

While we hope that Samsung will release the 5G variant globally, we won’t be entirely surprised if that’s not the case. 5G support in smartwatches is still relatively niche and depends heavily on carrier infrastructure and regional demand. As such, the company could limit the 5G-enabled Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 to select markets such as South Korea and the United States and sell the 4G/LTE variant globally.

We still do not know much about the upcoming Samsung smartwatch. However, with a July launch likely, more details should surface soon. The Watch Ultra 2 should be accompanied by the Galaxy Watch 9 series, with one or all models featuring Qualcomm’s newly launched Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset. Stick around for more.

Written by

Sumit Adhikari

Sumit, a life-long Samsung user, is passionate about technology and has been professionally writing on tech since 2017. He’s a mathematics graduate by education and enjoys teaching basic mathematics tricks to school kids in his spare time. Sumit believes in artificial intelligence and dreams of a fully open, intelligent and connected world.

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