Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is expected to launch with two connectivity options: 5G and LTE. This was confirmed after a device with model number SM-L716, linked to 5G, was spotted in the IMEI database earlier in February 2026.
More recently, firmware surfaced on Samsung’s servers for the SM-L715F model, which appears to be the LTE variant. Samsung’s model numbering convention uses the digit ”0” for Wi-Fi only, ”5” for LTE, and ”6” for 5G, confirming the dual-version approach for the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2.
The 5G version will likely be limited to select markets such as South Korea and the United States, while the LTE model could see a broader global rollout. This strategy mirrors Samsung’s past approach with its wearables, where higher-end connectivity options debut regionally before wider availability.
Qualcomm has already confirmed that the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 will run on its new Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset, although detailed specifications remain under wraps.
The launch is expected in July, coinciding with the announcement of Samsung’s latest foldables-the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 connectivity options
Samsung will offer the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 in multiple connectivity variants:
- Wi-Fi only
- LTE (model SM-L715F)
- 5G (model SM-L716, limited to select markets)
Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset in the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2
The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is confirmed to use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset, promising improvements in performance and energy efficiency that could bring it closer to competitors like Apple’s S-series chips and Google’s Pixel Watch processor.
Expected launch timing and market positioning
Samsung plans to launch the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 in July 2026, alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8 foldable phones. The dual-version strategy with 5G and LTE options allows Samsung to cater to different user needs and regional network capabilities.
Samsung’s Galaxy Watch Ultra line targets rugged, premium smartwatch users and outdoor enthusiasts. Offering both 5G and LTE models aligns with competitors such as Apple and Garmin, which provide multiple connectivity options to balance battery life, pricing, and network support.
As the smartwatch market evolves, Samsung’s use of the latest Snapdragon Wear Elite chip and multiple connectivity variants positions the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 as a versatile option for diverse users. Its success will depend on pricing and feature differentiation between versions.