Review of Galaxy Watch 7

Introduction

Best Smartwatch of 2024: Galaxy Watch 7 is the top device but has some caveats, especially for new users.
Personal Experience: Using it for a week, mostly excellent with a few issues.
General Impression: Highly improved over Galaxy Watch 5 and 6; 98% great, 2% can be improved.

Worse than Previous Models: New sensors take up space, affecting charging alignment.
Problems Identified:
- No reverse wireless charging with compatible phones.
- Incompatibility with most wireless chargers.
- Glitches during charging, needing adjustment to start/continue charging.

New Gestures: Knock Knock, Shake Dismiss, Double Pinch.
Problem: Gestures only work when the screen is on.
Lack of Functionality: Can't launch the flashlight with double press on the button; third-party app doesn’t work properly.

Samsung Phone Requirement: Certain features like blood pressure, ECG, and AI functions need a Samsung phone.
Blood Pressure Measurement: Needs frequent calibration; not highly accurate.
Blood Oxygen Measurement (SpO2): Suggested to take multiple readings to get an average; does not measure constantly.
Step Count History: Cannot view past days’ step count on the watch; must use the phone app.
Step Count Double Counting: Both the watch and the phone track steps, leading to double counting in the Samsung Health app.

VO2 Max: Not an accurate measurement; better alternatives available.
Sleep Tracking: Essential for accurate health metrics but may cause sleep anxiety.

Recommendation: Despite minor issues, highly recommend. Outstanding build quality, best in its price range.
Build Quality: Excellent, with sapphire glass display.

Good luck!