Samsung Revamps Galaxy Wearable App with One UI 8.5 Aesthetics and Drops Legacy Support

In exciting anticipation of the upcoming **Samsung Galaxy S26** series and the debut of **One UI 8.5**, Samsung has officially begun rolling out a significant update for the **Galaxy Wearable** application. This latest version isn't just a minor patch; it introduces a refreshed visual language designed to align perfectly with the next generation of Samsung's software ecosystem, while also preparing the ground for new hardware releases.

The update is currently making its debut in South Korea, with a global rollout expected to reach other regions in the coming days. While the update brings several forward-looking features, it also carries a "catch" that current users of older fitness trackers need to be aware of before they proceed with the installation.

The End of the Road for Legacy Fitness Trackers

The primary focus of this **Galaxy Wearable** update is modernization. Between the One UI 8.5 aesthetics and improved security features for data transfers, Samsung is clearly focusing on the future. However, this progress comes at the cost of compatibility for older hardware. Specifically, the new version officially drops support for the original 2019 Galaxy Fit and the Galaxy Fit e.

If you are still actively using these 2019 models, updating the app will render them incompatible. While these budget-friendly devices have outlasted many of their contemporaries, their journey effectively ends here. Users who aren't ready to upgrade their hardware are advised to delay this specific app update to maintain their current functionality.

For those looking to move forward, the series has seen significant improvements over the years, most notably with the Galaxy Fit 3, which offers a much larger rectangular display and a significantly more advanced graphical interface compared to its predecessors.

Preparing for Unpacked 2026

The timing of this update is no coincidence. Samsung is preparing for its massive Unpacked 2026 event scheduled for next week, where the Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro are expected to take center stage. By integrating support for these new earbuds now, Samsung ensures a seamless "out-of-the-box" experience for early adopters.

Furthermore, **One UI 8.5** will launch alongside the Galaxy S26 series during the same event. While the new flagship phones will ship with this software, owners of older Galaxy devices will likely have to wait a few more months to receive the final firmware update on their handsets.

What are the main visual changes in the new Galaxy Wearable update?

The app has been redesigned to mirror the aesthetics of One UI 8.5, featuring updated icons, smoother animations, and a layout that matches the upcoming system software on Galaxy smartphones.

Will my Galaxy Fit still work if I update the app?

No. According to the official changelog, support for the original Galaxy Fit and Galaxy Fit e (released in 2019) has been removed. Once you update the app, it will no longer communicate with these specific devices.

When will the new Galaxy Buds 4 be available?

Samsung is expected to officially unveil the Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro at the Unpacked 2026 event next week, with retail availability usually following shortly after the announcement.

Does this update include new features for existing earbuds?

While the update primarily focuses on the UI and support for new hardware, it also includes enhanced security features related to Smart Switch, making it safer and easier to move your wearable settings to a new phone.

🔎 This update marks a pivotal moment for the Samsung wearable ecosystem as it transitions into the S26 era. While it is bittersweet to see support end for the reliable Galaxy Fit series from 2019, the addition of One UI 8.5 visuals and support for the next generation of Galaxy Buds ensures that the platform remains at the cutting edge of technology and design.