Samsung’s Bold Move: A Return to Square Smartwatch Designs

In a surprising twist to the wearables market, Samsung is rumored to be considering a return to square smartwatch designs for its future Galaxy Watch models. This decision marks a potential end to the brand’s long-standing preference for circular displays, a design choice that has defined its smartwatch range since the Gear S2. But why would Samsung consider such a dramatic pivot, and what does this mean for consumers and the industry alike?

The Evolution of Samsung Smartwatch Designs

Since the launch of its first smartwatch, the Galaxy Gear, in 2014, Samsung has experimented with various form factors. Initially favoring a square design, the company soon shifted to circular displays from the Gear S2 onwards, solidifying this as its signature style. However, recent reports from SamMobile suggest that Samsung is planning to reintroduce square or squircle-shaped designs in the upcoming Galaxy Watch models, possibly as soon as the Galaxy Watch 7 series.

Competing with Apple’s Dominance?

One could speculate that Samsung’s rumored design overhaul is an attempt to more directly compete with Apple, which has consistently used square displays for its Apple Watches. Despite most apps and Samsung’s own One UI skin being optimized for circular layouts, the square design could offer practical benefits in terms of screen real estate and usability, potentially appealing to a broader market.

User Preferences: The Square vs. Circular Debate

The debate between square and circular smartwatch designs is not merely aesthetic but also about functionality and personal preference. Square watches provide more display space, which can enhance readability and interaction, especially for features like typing on a mini keyboard. Despite this, many users and aficionados have expressed a strong preference for the traditional, watch-like appearance of circular designs.

Interestingly, Samsung might not force consumers to choose. The company could potentially offer both design types across different models within the Galaxy Watch range, catering to a wider array of tastes and preferences. Such a strategy could provide users with the best of both worlds, allowing them to select a watch that aligns with their style, usability needs, and possibly even their budget, with rumors of a more affordable Galaxy Watch Fan Edition in the works.

Looking to the Future

As Samsung navigates these potential changes, the industry and consumers alike are keenly watching. Will Samsung’s foray back into square designs be a game-changer in its rivalry with Apple and its stance in the broader smartwatch market? Or, will it reaffirm the notion that variety and personalization are key to success in the wearables space?

Only time will tell whether Samsung’s exploration of square smartwatch designs will resonate with consumers or if the classic circular design will continue to reign supreme. Either way, this rumored design shift represents an exciting development in the ever-evolving world of smart technology.

References:
SamMobile
Android Central