Samsung deploys generative AI in Health app ahead of Galaxy Watch 9 launch

Samsung is beginning a rollout of a major update to its Health app on June 8, introducing generative AI capabilities that will serve as a precursor to the company’s next wearable hardware. According to Engadget, the update is designed to translate complex biometric data, ranging from overnight sleep patterns to daily activity, into actionable guidance for users. The software changes are explicitly positioned to showcase features that will be available on the Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, which are expected to be unveiled at an Unpacked event in July.

The most significant structural change in the update is the introduction of a new Vitals feature, which replaces the previous Energy Score. This AI-driven tool monitors heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, skin temperature, and blood oxygen levels against a true resting baseline established overnight. If the system detects meaningful deviations from this baseline, it notifies users whether they require additional rest or may be fighting an illness.

Samsung is also overhauling its cardiovascular metrics. The existing Vascular Load function, which tracked the work the heart performs to pump blood, is being replaced by a Heart Health Score. This new metric combines vascular load data, including sleep, stress, and activity levels, with body composition data to provide a scored assessment of heart health. The app will offer specific advice on improving this score, such as increasing daily steps or consuming potassium-rich foods like bananas.

Further additions include a Daily Cardio Load feature, which recommends optimal training targets and rest periods based on user metrics and overall profile. Additionally, a Fitness Index feature will analyse daily steps, heart rate, and VO2 max—the maximum amount of oxygen the body can utilise during intense physical exercise—and compare these against peer data to set personalised endurance or strength goals.

While these features are accessible on Galaxy mobile phones and connected devices, Samsung has stated that the functionalities will be fully realised with the launch of the new generation of Galaxy Watches. The exact specifications and full feature set of the Galaxy Watch 9 and Ultra 2 remain unconfirmed until the July event, though the software update provides a clear indication of the health analytics focus for the new hardware.