Samsung has removed a significant feature from its latest Galaxy Watch 7 and Watch Ultra models: Wireless PowerShare. Initially unnoticed by many amidst the excitement over new features, this absence was discovered by user JordyV27 on X, who found a support page confirming the omission.
Wireless PowerShare enabled Samsung wearables to draw power from Galaxy smartphones through reverse charging, a convenient feature for topping up battery life on the go. However, its removal was necessitated by the introduction of Samsung’s BioActive sensor array on the watch’s back, which includes advanced health monitoring capabilities surpassing previous models like the Galaxy Watch6.
The redesign required to accommodate the BioActive sensors increased the distance between the internal wireless charging coil and the wireless charger, prompting Samsung to eliminate support for Wireless PowerShare altogether. Despite the disappointment for some users, the trade-off appears worthwhile due to enhanced health metrics capabilities such as tracking AGEs (advanced glycation end products) and detecting signs of sleep apnea.
For those interested in purchasing, pre-orders for the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 start at $299 / £289 / AU$549 for the 40mm model and $329 / £319 / AU$599 for the 44mm model, with shipping scheduled for July 24. The Watch Ultra, available at a single size and priced at $649 / £599 / AU$1,299, also shares the same shipping date.