Apple Watch Series 12 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch9
3 questions both answer, side by side. Every answer is backed by the dated sources at the bottom.
Side by side
Can a smartwatch work without your phone nearby?
GPS + Cellular models of Apple Watch Series 12 support 5G (RedCap) and LTE.
Good to know: Needs a carrier plan; costs vary.
Galaxy Watch9 LTE models can use GPS without a paired phone; non-LTE models need a Bluetooth connection.
Good to know: Needs a carrier plan for LTE.
Can you talk to an AI assistant on your smartwatch?
Apple Watch Series 12 has Siri powered by Apple Intelligence.
Good to know: Maker's description.
Galaxy Watch9 uses Google Gemini to answer questions, organize tasks and reach information across apps by voice.
Good to know: Maker's description.
Which phone does a smartwatch need?
Apple Watch Series 12 works with an iPhone; Apple lists iPhone 11 or later on iOS 26 for its watchOS 26 features.
Good to know: Apple's requirement is a footnote on its watchOS 26 features.
Galaxy Watch9 is an Android watch; some features need a compatible Samsung Galaxy phone, and Bedtime Guidance needs Android 13 or later.
Good to know: Check each feature's requirements on Samsung's page.
Only checked for one of them
How long does a smartwatch battery last?
Apple rates Series 12 at up to 24 hours of normal use and 38 hours in Low Power Mode; 15 minutes of charging gives up to 12 hours.
Good to know: Maker's figures.
How we know (2 sources)
Apple Watch Series 12 tech specs (read Oct 23, 2026): up to 24 hours of normal use, up to 38 hours in Low Power Mode, up to 10 hours of workout tracking; 15 minutes of charging gives up to 12 hours. GPS + Cellular models support 5G (RedCap) and LTE. Siri powered by Apple Intelligence. Apple's notes list iPhone 11 or later on iOS 26 for its watchOS 26 features.
Read the sourceUS Galaxy Watch9 page (read Oct 23, 2026): from $379.99; Google Gemini answers questions and organizes tasks by voice. LTE models can use GPS without a paired phone; non-LTE models need a Bluetooth phone connection. Some features need a compatible Samsung Galaxy phone; Bedtime Guidance needs Android 13 or later. No battery hours on the page.
Read the source