Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 Drops Weight With New Marine Band
A redesigned strap cuts total device weight by 10 grams, offering original owners a cheap path to the new look.
Samsung has unveiled the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, a rugged wearable iteration that prioritizes physical comfort through a redesigned Marine Band. The update focuses on reducing the bulk of the device's primary strap to improve daily wearability.
The new Marine Band is slimmer and more flexible than its predecessor, reducing the total weight of the watch package from 94 grams to 85 grams. Both the original Galaxy Watch Ultra and the Ultra 2 feature identical cases that weigh 62 grams each. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is priced at $700, while the new Marine Band is available as a standalone purchase for $90. Both the device and the accessory are scheduled for release on August 7, 2026.
The Evolution of the Marine Band
The original Galaxy Watch Ultra's Marine Band utilized open sections to maximize airflow, but relied on a stiff rubber material that contributed significantly to the overall weight of the wearable. With the Ultra 2, Samsung has pivoted toward a more flexible material to reduce the physical footprint and overall mass of the wrist-worn system.
Implications for Current Owners
Because the hardware chassis remains unchanged between generations, the new strap is fully compatible with the first-generation Galaxy Watch Ultra via Samsung's Dynamic Lug system. This creates a unique value proposition for existing users: a $90 accessory upgrade provides nearly the same physical experience and weight reduction as a $700 hardware replacement. Since the strap is the only major design change, the new band can be fitted onto the older model to achieve the same look and feel.
What to Watch
While the weight reduction is a clear technical win, the increased flexibility of the new material may alter how the watch sits on the wrist. Users will need to determine if the 10-gram saving outweighs the structural rigidity of the original band. For now, the focus remains on the August 7 launch, where the compatibility of the Dynamic Lug system allows Samsung to market the band as both a premium accessory and a bridge for legacy hardware.