Tl;dr: If you want the best of the best, now in Android; get this watch.

I've had the Galaxy Watch Ultra for a month now and in that time I've found it to be the best and most complete Samsung smartwatch. In this review, I'll talk about what I like and what I don't like about this watch in no particular order, hoping that it can shed some light on interesting topics such as design, battery life, and the functionality and precision of its sensors.

First of all, let's talk about Samsung copying Apple. Indeed, the entire concept of an "Ultra" smartwatch first came from Apple and THAT is what Samsung is copying. From the straps to the use of orange on the action button to the siren and night mode; you can clearly see the inspiration that the South Korean company took from the Silicon Valley one. However, what Samsung was really original about was the design of the watch itself. Called "squircle" (square and circle = squircle), the design of this watch is actually inspired by Samsung's Gear Sport. And I understand why they didn't change the circular design, because otherwise they would have to completely redesign the software of their watch to adapt it to the new Ultra. Anyway, companies always copy everything. The Always On Display Apple took from Android, as well as the Widgets on the home screen, or the use of type C cables for charging, and even the first (between Samsung and Apple) to reach the smartwatch market was Samsung with the legendary Galaxy Gear. Two years before the first Apple Watch. Apple even took the word "Ultra" from Samsung and its premium line. Samsung has also taken inspiration from Apple: generally for the worse, such as removing the charger from the phone boxes, leaving the price the same. In short, companies copy each other over and over again but that only means benefits for users by having more options.

Regarding the design of the watch, I think the bezel and the titanium plate on which the watch face rests are a good idea. It is an elegant and whimsical design; because it does not look like your conventional watch and does not pretend to be discreet. Its orange accents give it an almost stealthy but at the same time striking appearance. Depending on the watch face you use (I always try to get one that matches the orange accents), it will turn heads wherever you go. I find it very disappointing that the entire body of the watch is not titanium; it is a very hard and durable plastic but it is not metal. I wouldn't have minded if it were aluminum or something similar, and perhaps because of the antennas (LTE and dual-band GPS) it is necessary to opt for a plastic case but in my opinion it takes away from the seriousness and premium feel of the watch.

I do have to say that the design of the Watch Ultra (and the Buds 3 Pro too, oddly) doesn't feel Samsung... Its hard to explain - but the design choices are so off with what the brand has brought to the table before. I like both of them but again, they don't feel Samsung.

As for battery independence, I am someone who does not like to limit the functions of my devices to have greater autonomy. I do not want to limit the AOD (Always On Display), nor the heart rate metrics, and I am constantly using contactless payments with google wallet and recording walking sessions around the city. So the battery life that I have is relatively short. It can last me from a day and a half to two days. To give an example, I currently have 80% battery, having used it for 6.5 hours and with all the functions active. The app says that I have one day with 14 hours left.

You can extend the battery yes, but by limiting the functions of the watch. Although I did not buy nor do I recommend cutting the functions of the watch in half to have greater autonomy, but again; everyone has different priorities.

As for the OS and processing power; its fast. Its buttery smooth. Its almost flawless. I'm coming from a Galaxy Watch 4 Classic and it's day and night difference. Its like a 70 year old running against The Flash. My old watch used to stutter, lag, sometimes it wouldn't even be able to activate a routine because... Idk it got confused or something. But this watch is amazingly smooth, finally having a good experience while using a Samsung Smartwatch. Can switch modes with ease, start timers, pay, change watch faces... Everything smoothly. Honestly, its quite impressive.

The action button only has 4 options; workout tracking, water lock, torch or a stopwatch. Its nice and all, but I alway say that if you can't do something (digitally) its because it hasnt been designed yet. I feel like we should be able to have a tap, long press, and double tap options for the action button. Otherwise its kinda lacking in my opinion.

Regarding the AGE's index, I did not understand it, its metrics are not clear and it is not really information that is useful to me. I have that feature deactivated.

On the other hand, I found the energy score to be accurate and very useful. It takes into account factors such as quality, consistency and hours of sleep, as well as physical activity from the previous day to give you an energy score and how you can make the most of your day. Whether by exercising more or taking a break.

The accuracy of the heart rate and oxygen saturation sensors are relatively accurate based on other professional measurements made by third parties. In general they can correctly track changes in BPM and 0²sat, but these should be taken as a guide and not as a law. This is because there are many factors that influence a good measurement; if the watch is adjusted correctly, if the sensors are clean, if the hands vibrate or shake (when lifting weights or riding a dirt bike, for example) and so on. Even people with tattoos (in the area where they wear their watch and under the sensors) have pointed out that the readings are wrong. It is important to consider that.

Regarding the dual-band GPS, I have not had such positive results because I generally use it in parks surrounded by trees and tall buildings that affect the signal. Which should not happen. However, third parties have found favorable results so it will depend on the circumstances.

Regarding watch bands, I've tried both the marine and alpine loop (ahem, trail band) and I honestly couldn't say which one I like more. The marine band feels sturdy and secure, while also being very flashy and gorgeous. Honestly, I take this one clubbing and partying the most. As for the trail band, I really like it; it looks stealthy and elegant. Its material is really stretchy; however, I've encountered some problems. Maybe it's me having to get used to it, but I see some red marks as if the band were too tight... Only that I could easily fit another three fingers when I stretch it between my wrist and my watch... Vertically. I don't know why that is, but it feels more like a relief when I take it off. Which is sad because I think I do like this one more aesthetically.

Finally; the Galaxy Watch Ultra is a watch that Samsung designed for high-performance athletes committed to their sport. However, I think it's also a watch for those looking for the best of the best in Android smartwatches. The adventurous and elegant design, especially of its Black and White editions, make it a must-have candidate for all kinds of situations, whether deep in the jungle, the sea or the tundra, as well as in meetings, outings and other social events.

Lmk if you have any questions. I'll do my best to answer them