Missing the Rotating Bezel on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
Earlier this month, Samsung launched the Galaxy Watch Ultra, which immediately faced criticism for its design similarities to the Apple Watch Ultra. While opinions differ on whether Samsung copied Apple, there's no denying the omission of its unique rotating bezel. After a week of testing, I genuinely miss the bezel’s aesthetics and functionality. It could have silenced the Apple rip-off rumors and enhanced the user experience.
The Legacy of the Rotating Bezel
Samsung introduced the rotating bezel with the Gear S2 in 2015, and it has since become synonymous with its high-end smartwatch models. This feature, used to navigate the Wear OS UI, added a touch of sophistication and improved durability to the Galaxy Watch Classic series. Including the bezel in the new Ultra would have elevated its design and distinguished it from competitors.
The Missed Refinement
The Galaxy Watch Ultra's design, with its hybrid circle-square shape and cushion-style case, lacks the sleekness expected from a premium device. A rotating bezel could have refined its appearance, aligning it with Samsung’s established aesthetics. The stationary bezel feels like a missed opportunity, leaving the design looking incomplete and somewhat indecisive.
Functionality Beyond Aesthetics
The rotating bezel offers practical benefits that a digital interface cannot match. It prevents the screen from getting smudged with fingerprints, making navigation smoother. This feature is especially useful during workouts when sweaty or greasy fingers can hinder touchscreen responsiveness. The bezel's tactile feedback provides a satisfying user experience, akin to ASMR.
Practical Benefits for Active Users
For fitness enthusiasts and adventurers, the physical bezel proves invaluable. It allows quick navigation without the need for constant screen swiping, even with gloves or greasy hands. Whether dismissing calls, controlling music, or interacting with notifications, the rotating bezel ensures these actions are swift and effortless.
