SEOUL — Samsung Electronics is set to significantly upgrade the body temperature measurement capabilities of its Galaxy Watch lineup. According to industry sources on March 8, 2026, the tech giant plans to transition from the existing infrared (IR) non-contact sensors to contact-based temperature sensors starting with the next generation of the Galaxy Watch series, expected to be unveiled in the third quarter of this year.

This strategic pivot marks the first major overhaul of the device's thermal sensing technology since the temperature sensor was first introduced four years ago with the Galaxy Watch 5 series.

The Shift from IR to Contact Sensors
Since 2022, Samsung has utilized IR-based non-contact sensors to monitor skin temperature. While IR sensors allow for data collection without needing a perfect seal against the skin, they are inherently susceptible to "noise" from the external environment, such as ambient air temperature or moisture.

In contrast, contact-based sensors are designed to sit directly against the skin, minimizing external interference and allowing for high-precision biometrical tracking. Historically, manufacturers avoided contact sensors due to the difficulty of maintaining a consistent connection during vigorous movement or exercise. However, industry analysts suggest that Samsung’s decision reflects a newfound confidence in its hardware design.

"Samsung redesigned the rear sensor structure starting with the Galaxy Watch 8, focusing on reducing thickness and improving the curvature to ensure a tighter fit," said an industry insider. "The upcoming model will leverage this advanced fit to implement contact-based sensing, which offers much higher data reliability."

Expanding the Horizons of Health Data
Currently, the Galaxy Watch utilizes temperature data primarily for sleep tracking and predicting menstrual cycles. By enhancing the accuracy through contact sensors, Samsung aims to expand the utility of this data into "Intelligent Care."

The goal is to provide real-time monitoring that can detect early signs of fever, track thermal recovery after intense workouts, and assist in general illness management, such as the early detection of colds or flu. This aligns with Samsung’s broader vision of moving from reactive health monitoring to proactive wellness management.

A Growing Market for Smart Wearables
The timing of this technological leap coincides with a booming global market. According to recent data from Mordor Intelligence, the smart wearable market is projected to grow from $99.36 billion in 2025 to $118.89 billion in 2026. Experts predict the market will reach a staggering $254.31 billion by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.42%.

As smartwatches evolve into sophisticated medical-grade devices, the competition between industry leaders like Samsung, Apple, and Garmin is increasingly focused on sensor accuracy. Samsung’s move to contact-based sensing is seen as a direct effort to capture a larger share of the health-conscious consumer base.

Upcoming Launch and Outlook
The new Galaxy Watch, likely to be revealed alongside Samsung's latest foldable smartphones during the Galaxy Unpacked event in Q3 2026, is expected to be a cornerstone of the company’s "AI-driven health ecosystem."

While a Samsung spokesperson stated that the company "cannot confirm specific details of unreleased products," the shift toward high-precision contact sensors signals a major milestone in the evolution of wearable technology. If successful, the Galaxy Watch could become an even more indispensable tool for users seeking clinical-grade health insights from their wrists.