Samsung has officially unveiled its latest addition to the Galaxy Watch lineup - the Galaxy Watch FE (Fan Edition). Set to launch on June 24th, this new smartwatch aims to offer a more affordable entry point into Samsung's wearable ecosystem without sacrificing too many premium features.
Key Specifications and Features
- Display: 1.2-inch Super AMOLED (396x396 resolution)
- Processor: Exynos W920
- Memory: 1.5GB RAM, 16GB storage
- Battery: 247mAh
- Durability: IP68 water/dust resistance, 5ATM, MIL-STD-810H
- OS: Wear OS with One UI 5 Watch
- Sensors: Samsung BioActive Sensor, accelerometer, barometer, gyro, geomagnetic, light
The Galaxy Watch FE borrows its design from the Galaxy Watch 4, but with a notable upgrade - a sapphire crystal display for improved durability. It's available in a single 40mm size and three colors: Black, Pink Gold, and Silver.
Health and Fitness Tracking
Despite its lower price point, the Watch FE doesn't skimp on health features. It offers:
- Sleep tracking with coaching
- Heart rate monitoring
- ECG and blood pressure measurement
- Body composition analysis
- Tracking for over 100 different workouts
- Advanced running analysis
Pricing and Availability
The Bluetooth-only version of the Galaxy Watch FE will be available on June 24th for $199. An LTE model is planned for release in October, priced at $249.99.
What's Missing?
To achieve its lower price point, Samsung has made some compromises:
- No temperature sensor
- Smaller battery compared to the Galaxy Watch 6 (247mAh vs 300mAh)
- Less RAM (1.5GB vs 2GB in the Watch 6)
- Only available in 40mm size
Our Take
The Galaxy Watch FE appears to be a solid option for those looking to enter the smartwatch market without breaking the bank. It offers many of the core features found in Samsung's more expensive models, including the robust health tracking capabilities powered by the BioActive Sensor.
However, with the Galaxy Watch 6 often available on sale for similar prices, potential buyers should carefully compare features and prices before making a decision. The upcoming Galaxy Watch 7, rumored to feature a significant design change, may also be worth waiting for if you're not in a hurry to upgrade.
Ultimately, the Galaxy Watch FE seems positioned to broaden Samsung's smartwatch appeal, offering a more accessible entry point while maintaining most of the features that have made the Galaxy Watch line popular.
Update: Monday July 01 03:20
The Galaxy Watch FE will be available globally this summer, with hints of an imminent launch in Malaysia. It has been listed in Malaysia's SIRIM database, and a support page is already live on Samsung Malaysia's website. The watch features a modern strap design with a one-click ejection mechanism, making it easier to change bands. Additionally, the LTE model of the Galaxy Watch FE will be priced at $250 and available from October, offering more connectivity options for users who want cellular capabilities on their smartwatch.
