Samsung’s Galaxy Watch series has encountered a significant setback in the first quarter of 2026, with shipments declining by 28% compared to the same period in 2025. This downturn has reduced Samsung’s market share in the global smartwatch sector from 7% to 5%.
In contrast, competitors have experienced growth during this timeframe. Apple Watch shipments increased by 21%, driven by strong demand in China and Europe, as well as the popularity of the Watch SE 3. Huawei saw a 12% rise in shipments, Xiaomi grew by 9%, and imoo, a brand specializing in children’s smartwatches, achieved a 2% increase.
Samsung is preparing to launch its next-generation Galaxy Watch 9 series in July, alongside new foldable devices. This upcoming release is crucial for the company to regain its footing in the competitive smartwatch market.
The decline in Galaxy Watch shipments highlights the challenges Samsung faces in maintaining its position in the rapidly evolving wearable technology landscape. The success of the forthcoming Galaxy Watch 9 series will be pivotal in determining whether Samsung can reverse this downward trend and reestablish its presence in the market.
