Is Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra the alternative to Apple's super watch?

In Samsung's vast catalogue of wearables, a 'rugged' model was missing. The Galaxy Watch Ultra (699 euros) is the completion of a range full of choices for a brand that has long bet on wearables. The comparison with the Apple Watch Ultra is immediate even though watchOS and Wear OS, the two operating systems that run the smart watches, are very different. Aesthetically, the Galaxy Watch Ultra appears to be a far cry from the previous Watch, but that is only appearance. The case is oval even though the digital dial is the same as always, circular. The feeling is that Samsung and Google didn't want to revolutionise the Wear OS user interface that much, and this brings with it two things: there is no possibility of confusing a Galaxy Watch Ultra with an Apple Watch Ultra, and those who have been comfortable with any recent Samsung model will have no difficulty in disentangling themselves from the new model's tabs and apps. The materials change, with a sturdier chassis made of sapphire, titanium and ceramic, perfect for hikes, outings and the occasional crash. There is an extra button, dubbed 'action', orange in colour and placed in the middle of the one to return to the home screen or to start multitasking. If only it had also incorporated a rotary wheel it would have been an added plus, to make up for the lack of a physical dial around the display. Under the body is a new BioActive sensor, dedicated to improving the accuracy of measurements, also enabling the implementation of predictive and preventive features, via Galaxy AI alerts.

Interestingly, the weight, at 60 grams, is just one gram more than the Watch 6 Classic. A great job by Samsung when you consider the more durable design and larger battery cell. The Ultra complies with MIL-STD 810H and IP68 certifications against water and dust, can go down to a depth of 100 metres in fresh and salt water, and can survive temperatures between -20°C and 55°C and an altitude of 9,000 metres above sea level. Thanks to the numerous integrated sensors, it is possible to monitor heartbeat, blood oxygen level, stress and sleep, including body temperature during the night. In short, it has everything a smartwatch should have today to meet any need. Even in terms of personalisation.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra is available in Titanium Gray, Silver and White. The first is paired with an orange strap, the second with a black strap and the third with a white strap. The attachment is different from the 'one-click' Watch straps seen so far and therefore the other straps cannot be adapted to the Ultra. But Samsung has launched new ones for the occasion, from the Marine in the box to the more elegant PeakForm, while the Trail Band is designed for outdoor use. A quick and painless change of clothes, to quickly go from Ace Ventura to James Bond.