Embrace innovation, experience the extraordinary! Break free from the ordinary and embrace innovation with the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, featuring AAC Technologies’ groundbreaking large-size X-axis actuator. Embark on a journey of haptic experiences, right on your wrist!
On July 10, Samsung held its Galaxy Unpacked summer product launch event in Paris, introducing the all-new Galaxy Watch7 series smartwatches. The event also marked the debut of the higher-end Ultra variant, the Galaxy Watch Ultra. Featuring a titanium alloy rectangular bezel with a circle-in-square design, the Galaxy Watch Ultra is available in three color options to suit individual preferences.
In a groundbreaking move, Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is the first smartwatch globally to feature AAC Technologies’ new large-size X-axis actuator, delivering high-quality and differentiated natural haptic experiences to users. The Galaxy Watch Ultra is packed with AI features that analyze users’ exercise performance, health, and heart rate to provide personalized recommendations.
A Leap Forward in Haptic Experiences with AAC Technologies’ Large-size X-axis Actuator
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra marks a significant milestone for Samsung, becoming the first smartwatch to feature an X-axis actuator. This groundbreaking innovation represents a quantum leap in performance compared to the actuator used in the Galaxy Watch6, empowering the Galaxy Watch Ultra to redefine the boundaries of wrist-based haptics.
But what exactly sets AAC Technologies’ large-size X-axis actuator apart?
1. Powerful Haptics Driven by a Massive 680mm³ X-axis Actuator
At the heart of the Galaxy Watch Ultra lies a groundbreaking X-axis actuator boasting an exceptional volume of 680.4mm³, making it the largest linear actuator currently available in the consumer electronics Android ecosystem. This massive actuator generates a peak vibration amplitude of 3Gpp, delivering an unparalleled haptic experience that is both natural and nuanced. The Galaxy Watch Ultra’s X-axis actuator is further enhanced by AAC Technologies’ third-generation actuator technology platform. This cutting-edge technology ensures a more powerful driving force, enabling a more responsive start-stop response. As users interact with the watch face, they will experience precise feedback that mirrors their actions.
2. Exceptional Low-frequency Haptics with a Resonant Frequency of 114Hz
Extensive research in the fields of ergonomics and haptics has revealed that the wrist is among the most sensitive areas of the human body for tactile sensing, with a particular sensitivity to vibration frequencies below 125Hz. This implies that X-axis actuators employed in smartwatches should have a resonance frequency set at or below 125Hz to effectively induce resonance with the wrist area. This resonance phenomenon enhances the perception of low-frequency vibrations, leading to a more comfortable and natural haptic experience for users.
Through meticulous experimentation and refinement, AAC Technologies’ engineering team has successfully lowered the resonant frequency (F0) of this large-size X-axis actuator to 114Hz. This achievement strikes a delicate balance between maintaining adequate low-frequency vibration intensity and delivering a natural tactile sensation that aligns with human sensing. For instance, in the context of alarm notifications, the Galaxy Watch Ultra can gently vibrate to awaken users from sleep in a natural and non-disruptive manner. Users can then easily dismiss the alarm using the watch interface.
3. Enhanced Internal Structure for Exceptional Reliability
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, designed specifically for sports and outdoor activities, often encounters extreme environmental conditions such as high temperatures, extreme cold, and accidental impacts. These challenges demand a higher level of reliability from the X-axis actuator within the smartwatch. In response to these challenges, AAC Technologies’ engineering team has optimized the internal structure of this large-size X-axis actuator. This optimization not only delivers high-quality vibration performance but also ensures stable vibration feedback under a wide range of extreme environmental conditions.
Furthermore, this actuator boasts a wide frequency range, providing ample design flexibility for creating diverse vibration effects on the smartwatch. This capability enables the differentiation of haptics across various scenarios, enhancing the overall user experience. In line with its commitment to environmental responsibility, AAC Technologies has incorporated recycled rare-earth magnets into this actuator, reducing the need for mining raw ore. This innovative approach strikes a balance between technological advancement and environmental protection, supporting a more sustainable future.
Empowered by the exceptional performance of AAC Technologies’ all-new large-size X-axis actuator, Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra delivers a rich and natural flagship haptic experience to users. Whether receiving notifications, monitoring health, or tracking workouts, users can enjoy differentiated flagship vibration effects on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra. Furthermore, when users swipe their fingers across the watch bezel, they can experience realistic haptics that mimic the feel of a mechanical rotating bezel. This immersive feedback enables precise control for selecting apps, switching tasks, and performing other interactions.
According to IDC’s latest China Wearable Device Market Quarterly Tracking Report, the adult smartwatch market experienced robust growth in Q1 2024, with sales surging 38.6% year-on-year. Amidst this dynamic market, product and user experience innovation have become top priorities for major players.
In a significant step forward, AAC Technologies partnered with Samsung to develop a custom large-size X-axis actuator for the Galaxy Watch Ultra. This groundbreaking collaboration not only delivers a richer and more differentiated user experience, enhancing the product’s competitive edge, but also revolutionizes tactile feedback in Android smartwatches, setting a new industry benchmark.
AAC Technologies is committed to continuous innovation in haptic technology, working closely with partners to bring high-quality haptic experiences to a wider range of applications. As technology evolves and user needs shift, AAC Technologies will remain at the forefront of innovation, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in haptics.