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What Operating System Does Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Run?

The Galaxy Watch 4 runs WearOS 3.5 with Samsung's One UI Watch 3.5 interface layer. This was Samsung's first smartwatch using Google's WearOS platform after transitioning from their proprietary Tizen OS.


WearOS Platform

WearOS is Google's smartwatch operating system, providing access to Google services and the Play Store.

  • Google Services: Google Assistant, Google Maps, YouTube Music, Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Fit, and Google Pay all work natively on the watch.

  • Play Store Access: Download apps directly on the watch from thousands of WearOS-compatible apps.

  • Android Compatibility: Works with any Android phone running Android 6.0 or higher, though Samsung Galaxy phones with One UI 3.1+ provide the best experience.


One UI Watch

Samsung adds their custom interface layer on top of WearOS for a familiar experience.

  • Navigation: Swipe down for quick settings, swipe up for notifications, swipe left/right for tiles (widgets), press Home button for app drawer, press Back button to go back or view recent apps.

  • Samsung Integration: Samsung Health, Samsung Pay, and Bixby work alongside Google services, giving you access to both ecosystems.

  • Dual Voice Assistants: Both Google Assistant (press and hold Home) and Bixby are available. Choose your default in settings.


Transition from Tizen

The Galaxy Watch 4 marked Samsung's shift away from Tizen OS used on previous watches like the Galaxy Watch 3 and Galaxy Watch Active.

  • What Was Gained: Full Google Play Store access with thousands more apps, better third-party app support, Google Assistant alongside Bixby, and Google Maps turn-by-turn navigation.

  • What Was Lost: Tizen's superior battery life (3-7 days vs 18-24 hours on WearOS) and some Tizen-exclusive watch faces.


Software Support

Samsung provides 4 years of software updates from the release date.

  • Support Timeline: Software support ends August 2025

  • Current Version: WearOS 3.5 with One UI Watch 3.5

  • After Support Ends: The watch continues functioning normally but won't receive new features or security patches. Apps may still update independently.

Checking Your Version: Navigate to Settings About watch Software information to view your current WearOS version and build number.


See Also: What Apps Are Available|Battery Life