Samsung's second fitness focused smartwatch is now available

Samsung's second fitness focused smartwatch, the Galaxy Watch Active 2, is now available locally. The Galaxy Watch Active 2 iterates on its predecessor's slim design, but makes a few key improvements that should be a boon for usability.

The most important of these is a digital bezel. Most past Galaxy smartwatches had a rotating bezel that was used to navigate the software, but this was removed in the first generation Active to cut down on size. We found this made Active a little clunky to navigate, but Samsung found a clever way to address this in the Active 2. 

Dragging your finger clockwise or anti-clockwise on Active 2's frame simulates the rotating bezel, and even has haptic feedback to simulate the physical clicks. It can take a little bit of practice to get used to it, but it should make the Watch 2 a lot easier to use.

In addition, Samsung has kitted out the Watch Active 2 with eSIM support, which means it can receive notifications and phone calls (there's a speaker too, this time around) even when you don't have your phone on you. eSIM support is only present in the ever-so-slightly more lux stainless steel Active 2 variants. Cheaper aluminium Bluetooth-only models will also be available.

Other improvements include a larger battery, enhanced sleep tracking with twice the sensors, an updated running coach, and stress tracking.

The Galaxy Watch Active 2 range is available now from retailers including at JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, and Vodafone. Pricing is as follows:

• Black Stainless Steel 44mm (4G): $799
• Gold Stainless Steel 44mm (4G): $799
• Black Stainless Steel 40mm (4G): $749
• Gold Stainless Steel 40mm (4G): $749
• Black Aluminium 44mm (Bluetooth): $549
• Gold Aluminium 44mm (Bluetooth): $549

A 40mm aluminium version isn't available internationally, but at this stage, Samsung isn't bringing it to Australia, which sucks for anyone who wants a smaller watch without spending top dollar.

The 4G eSIM models are compatible with Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone, but at this stage, only Vodafone is ranging the Active 2. 

The Galaxy Watch Active 2 works with both iOS and Android devices, but eSIM functionality will only work with Android.

Alex Choros

Managing Editor + Group Telco Editor | X | Instagram | Threads | LinkedIn

Alex Choros is the Managing Editor of WhistleOut Australia and an award-winning journalist. He's been writing about consumer technology for over a decade and is an expert on the Australian telco sector, to the point where he knows far too many phone and internet plans by heart. In addition to leading the WhistleOut editorial team, Alex is responsible for ruining the office Sonos with his troubled taste in music.

Read full bio