Is Samsung Outpacing Apple with the New Galaxy Watch5 Pro?
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The Apple Watch: A Declining Interest
Lately, I've found myself feeling less impressed with the Apple Watch. While I do wear it frequently—sometimes even over my beloved Casio G-Shock—I primarily use it for workout tracking and timing my rest intervals during weightlifting.
> I truly miss the simplicity of a classic watch that doesn’t rely on a dual-core processor for timekeeping.
My engagement with the activity rings has faded, and notifications have shifted from being helpful to annoying. Honestly, I've grown a bit weary of the Apple Watch and its operating system. Apologies, Tim.
Rumors of a 'Pro' version of the Apple Watch set to debut later this year have sparked my interest. Coincidentally, Samsung has stepped in with its own competitive offering aimed at capturing the sports watch market!
I’ve already placed a pre-order for the Galaxy Watch5 Pro, and I’ll share my first impressions once it arrives. For now, let’s delve into the details about this new device.
Introducing the Galaxy Watch5 Pro
The Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro is now available for pre-order, starting at £429 in the UK. While the standard Watch5 offers only a modest update over its predecessor, the Watch5 Pro marks a significant new direction for Samsung’s smartwatch lineup.
It's clearly positioned as a direct competitor to dedicated sports watches from brands like Garmin. This model boasts built-in GPS, a robust titanium frame, and a sapphire crystal display, all claimed to be designed for "adventurous" users. Whatever that may entail.
The Watch5 Pro operates on a modified version of Google’s Wear OS, dubbed One UI. Tailored for its circular display, it certainly appears visually appealing—at least in promotional images—outshining the Apple Watch in aesthetics.
There’s a lot to appreciate about the Watch5 Pro, although I do have some reservations.
What Makes the Galaxy Watch5 Pro Stand Out?
Let’s highlight the positive aspects first.
Samsung's smartwatches have always caught my eye, primarily due to their circular design—similar to traditional watches. The Watch5 Pro enhances this appeal with a larger size (only offered in a rather amusing 45mm casing) and an impressive 590mAh battery.
The Bespoke Studio configuration tool on Samsung’s website is particularly impressive. It allows users to experiment with various color combinations for bands and cases, all while viewing them alongside different watch faces. The user-friendly interface is a vast improvement over the Apple Watch's customization options.
What I’m particularly eager to experience is how the Watch5 Pro caters to regular runners and fitness enthusiasts. My enthusiasm for the Apple Watch in this aspect has dwindled, and I’m ready for a fresh experience while jogging, lifting weights, or cycling.
As a somewhat cautious runner, the 'Track Back' feature caught my attention during the recent presentation. This functionality enables users to retrace their steps back to the starting point—a perfect solution for someone like me, who may easily get lost in new running locales.
Although I don’t hike much anymore, I look forward to testing the Watch5 Pro during my annual trip to the Lake District in February. If Apple manages to launch its own 'Pro' version by then, I will compare both directly.
The Pricing: A Competitive Edge?
The pricing of the entire Watch5 lineup is notably competitive. The standard Watch5 begins at just £289, while the Pro model at £429 seems likely to undercut whatever Apple has in store for the fall. It already feels like a solid value proposition.
Nonetheless, I have some doubts about the Watch5 Pro.
Concerns About the Galaxy Watch5 Pro
Several factors need clarification before the Watch5 Pro can claim the title of my go-to smartwatch.
First, we lack information on its compatibility with non-Samsung smartphones. Historically, the optimal experience with Galaxy Watches has been when paired with Samsung devices.
Although I have a Galaxy Z Flip4 on the way, I frequently switch Android phones due to my job. The Watch5 Pro must work well with a wide range of Android devices. It would be disappointing if non-Samsung users couldn't access its best features.
Additionally, the Watch5 Pro is powered by Samsung’s Exynos platform, which is infamous for poor performance in many of its UK smartphones. This raises concerns about how the watch will perform overall.
Lastly, can we trust the Watch5 Pro’s durability? Brands like Garmin and Casio have established their reputations over decades for making rugged watches. Samsung’s claim that the Watch5 Pro is "designed for adventurers" may falter if it struggles against challenging conditions.
Bring it on, Samsung. I’m ready.
Implications for the Apple Watch
While I will reserve my final judgment until I’ve tested the Watch5 Pro, it’s evident that the competition for Apple is intensifying rapidly.
The Apple Watch has enjoyed a relatively unchallenged reign at the top of the wearable market, but Samsung’s new lineup—along with the upcoming Pixel Watch—presents compelling alternatives.
As someone who has relied on the Apple Watch since 2015, the introduction of Samsung's new 'Pro' category is genuinely thrilling. I can’t wait to strap it on and see how it performs.
What does Apple have in store for us? Time is running out (pun intended).
Final Thoughts
My Galaxy Watch5 Pro will be on my wrist by the end of the month, and I won’t take it off until Apple has something equally impressive to counter it.
The Apple Watch must evolve and offer long-time users fresh excitement. I’m waiting, Tim.
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