More Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 details revealed in FCC listings (Update)

Update: June 15, 2021 (6:40 AM ET): Three additional Samsung wearables have now passed through the FCC. Devices with model numbers SM-R890, SM-R875, and SM-R870 have arrived at the regulatory body.

It’s presumed that SM-R890 is the bigger Wi-Fi-only Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 model and packs a battery labeled as EB-BR890ABY. The capacity of this unit remains unclear, but the larger Galaxy Watch models usually employ slightly larger batteries. The other two devices could be the LTE and Wi-Fi-only Galaxy Watch Active 4, respectively. Like the SM-R885, all three models were tested with the EP-OR825 wireless charger.

The listings don’t divulge details on the wearables’ debut dates, but their presence at the FCC does suggest an official reveal is imminent.

Original article: June 14, 2021 (3:41 AM ET): We’ve seen the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 series take a trip through China’s 3C earlier this month. Now, the line has arrived at the FCC. A device bearing model number SM-R885 has appeared on the US certification site, complete with a few intriguing details.

Judging by its model number, SM-R885 could be the LTE variant of SM-R880. The latter is believed to be the smaller 41mm Galaxy Watch 4. While the FCC listing doesn’t elaborate on its size, it confirms the smartwatch in question supports several LTE bands. In addition, the watch also supports dual-band Wi-Fi, NFC, GNSS, and Bluetooth. “Audio playback” from the smartwatch’s internal memory is also listed as a feature.

As for power, the smartwatch packs a battery with the model number EB-BR880ABY. We’ve seen this cell mentioned on previous listings, and it’s rated at 240mAh. This suggests that the Galaxy Watch 3 and 4 series battery capacity won’t differ.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 4: What about charging?

For charging, the Galaxy Watch 4 will seemingly retain Qi wireless charging support. However, the wearable may share its charger with previous models. The FCC tested the Galaxy Watch 4 with a charger numbered EP-OR825 — the wireless charger that supports the Galaxy Watch 3 and Watch Active 2. This would also suggest the Galaxy Watch 4 may pack 5W charging, too.

While a recent 3C listing suggests the Galaxy Watch 4 may not ship with a charger, it seems more likely that Samsung will continue to use its current charger. It’s a sensible move for Samsung, as it saves the firm from developing a new cradle. This should also mean lower prices for consumers.

So when can we expect the Galaxy Watch 4 to make its official debut? Conflicting rumors suggest a launch could occur between now or August. However, the FCC listing does hint that the wearable’s debut is imminent.