Sleep tracking becomes easier

Samsung is updating its Samsung Health app to make sleep tracking more convenient. The new version requires just three days of sleep data from the past two weeks, down from the previous requirement of seven days within a month. This change aims to reduce the burden on users while still providing meaningful insights into their sleep patterns.

Personalized sleep coaching

During setup, users answer a questionnaire about their sleep habits, including how regularly they sleep, how often they wake up at night, and their consumption of alcohol and caffeine. Based on this information, Samsung Health creates a personalized sleep coaching program that lasts four to eight weeks, with weekly adjustments to recommendations tailored to the user’s progress and needs.

Hardware requirements for sleep features

The sleep coaching feature works with Galaxy smartphones running Android 11 or later and requires specific wearable devices, such as a Galaxy Watch 4 or newer, a Galaxy Fit3 or newer, or a Galaxy Ring. These devices use wrist-based sensors to estimate sleep quality, though Samsung notes that this method is less precise than a full sleep lab examination.

New sleep chart details

The app now includes a sleep chart with five indicators: sleep duration, regularity, nighttime wakefulness, sleep satisfaction (which users self-report), and an energy score. Samsung clarifies that the energy score does not have medical value and should not be used as a diagnostic tool.

Enhanced running coaching

Runners also benefit from the update, as Samsung has expanded its Running Coach feature from ten to twelve training levels. This change targets intermediate and advanced athletes, offering more detailed and personalized training plans based on a 12-minute running test or the user’s running history.

New features for runners

The Running Coach is now available on Galaxy Watch 8 and newer models, paired with a smartphone running Android 10 or later. Samsung Health also supports Strava routes, allowing users to import and use these routes directly on their connected Galaxy watch for activities like running, cycling, or trail running.

Improved sharing options

The update adds improved sharing features for sports activities, making it easier to export session data for social media use. These enhancements aim to help users share their fitness progress more efficiently with friends and online communities.

Rollout schedule varies

Samsung is rolling out the update gradually worldwide since October, with different release dates for various countries and device models. This phased approach ensures that users receive the update when it is most appropriate for their region and device.