Samsung Galaxy Watch users with older models may soon have to consider an upgrade as several devices approach the end of their major software support periods.
Samsung has traditionally provided up to four years of software support for its Galaxy Watch lineup, while newer models have received longer support commitments. The company has extended software support to five years for the latest Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2.
The end of major software updates does not mean an older Galaxy Watch will stop working immediately. However, affected users may no longer receive new Wear OS versions, features and, eventually, security updates.
Galaxy Watch models nearing end of support
The Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic have already reached the end of their update cycle.
According to Android Authority, Samsung ended all updates for both models in August 2026. Wear OS support for the watches had already ended in December 2025, although security updates continued into 2026.
The next models approaching the end of major software support are:
- Galaxy Watch 5: Wear OS updates through December 31, 2026
- Galaxy Watch 5 Pro: Wear OS updates through December 31, 2026
- Galaxy Watch 6: Wear OS updates through December 2027
- Galaxy Watch 6 Classic: Wear OS updates through December 2027
This means Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro owners have only a few months of major software support remaining.
Newer Galaxy Watches have longer support
Samsung has gradually extended the expected software lifespan of its newer smartwatches.
The Galaxy Watch FE, launched in 2024, is expected to receive support through December 2028. The Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra, also launched in 2024, are expected to receive updates through 2028.
The Galaxy Watch 8, released in 2025, is expected to receive software support through 2029.
Samsung’s latest Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 have the longest support window, with five years of software updates, extending their expected support period to 2031.
Should you upgrade?
Reaching the end of software support does not automatically make an older Galaxy Watch unusable.
Owners can continue using their watches for functions such as notifications, mobile payments, workout tracking and basic health monitoring. However, older devices may eventually miss new features, lose compatibility with some apps and experience declining battery performance.
Security support is a more important consideration.
Once security updates stop, the watch will no longer receive fixes for newly discovered vulnerabilities. While this may be less critical than on a smartphone or computer, users who rely on features involving payments, personal information or connected services should take the support deadline into account.
For Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro owners, 2026 therefore marks an important point to start considering their next device, particularly if they plan to keep their smartwatch for several more years.
