Samsung has flipped the switch on the next Galaxy Watch. A firmware build tied to model number SM-L345U has surfaced on internal servers, pointing to the Galaxy Watch 9 entering active testing, via @Mohammed_K_2010.

Firmware sightings usually land after core development wraps. This is the phase where Samsung validates stability, connectivity stacks, and power behavior in real-world conditions. In plain terms, the upcoming puck is no longer just a lab project.

The SM-L345U identifier has already been linked to the Watch 9 in earlier leaks. Seeing it attached to live firmware strengthens that mapping. It also lines up with Samsung’s typical rhythm, where testing ramps up roughly two to three months before launch.

Snapdragon Wear Elite chip

The wearable is expected to run on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear Elite platform, a step beyond the current generation. Qualcomm itself hinted at this upgrade, suggesting better efficiency and tighter AI-assisted health processing.

If true, Samsung may be leaning more on Qualcomm again after mixing its own Exynos-based solutions in recent cycles. Battery is still a question, but not a complete unknown. Early leaks point to a modest capacity bump over the Watch 8.

Samsung refreshed the Watch 8 alongside foldables last July. The same stage is likely reserved this year, with the Galaxy Watch 9 expected to debut next to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8 at the July 2026 Unpacked event.

More leaks should follow soon.

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