Samsung appears to be preparing another redesign for its Galaxy SmartTag lineup, but the company’s next-generation tracker may come with a surprising trade-off. According to a new report from SamMobile, the upcoming Galaxy SmartTag 3 could adopt a cleaner, more modern design while removing one of the SmartTag 2’s most useful features.
The leaked design suggests that Samsung’s next smart tracker will feature a compact squircle-shaped body, closely resembling the visual language of Samsung’s latest One UI icons and the rounded design approach seen on newer Galaxy Watch models.
Compared with the current Galaxy SmartTag 2, the difference is immediately noticeable. Samsung’s existing tracker uses a longer pill-shaped design with a large integrated loop at one end, making it easy to attach directly to keys, bags, or other personal items. The leaked SmartTag 3 design appears to remove that built-in attachment point entirely.
And that could be a frustrating change.
Samsung May Remove the Feature That Made SmartTag 2 Better
While the new design may look cleaner and more refined, it could introduce the same inconvenience that Apple AirTag users have experienced since launch.
Apple’s trackers do not include a built-in attachment hole, meaning users often need to purchase an additional case or holder before attaching them to keys, backpacks, or luggage.
According to SamMobile, the leaked Galaxy SmartTag 3 design does not appear to include an integrated lanyard hole either. If accurate, Samsung may force users to buy additional accessories just to use the tracker in everyday situations.
That would be a strange step backward.
With the Galaxy SmartTag 2, Samsung specifically improved the design by adding a large built-in ring, making the tracker more practical straight out of the box. The device measures 28.8 x 52.44 x 8mm, weighs 13.75 grams, and includes features such as Ultra Wideband (UWB), Bluetooth 5.3, and an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance.
It was one of the small design decisions that made Samsung’s tracker more convenient than many competitors.
A Familiar Button Could Make a Comeback
The leaked SmartTag 3 design also appears to bring back a more visible central button.
SamMobile suggests that this button could once again allow users to trigger actions such as making a connected Galaxy phone ring or activating Samsung’s Modes and Routines features.
The return of the button would make sense. Samsung previously used similar functionality to make its trackers more than simple location devices, giving users additional ways to interact with their Galaxy ecosystem.
However, the biggest upgrades remain unknown.
The Real Improvements Are Still a Mystery
Samsung has not officially announced the Galaxy SmartTag 3, and most hardware details remain unconfirmed.
Based on current reports, the next-generation tracker is expected to include familiar features such as:
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Ultra Wideband (UWB)
- Samsung Find integration
- Water and dust resistance
SamMobile has also suggested that Samsung could introduce Bluetooth 6.0, potentially improving tracking accuracy and reliability. However, these details remain unofficial until Samsung provides confirmation.
Battery life will also be an important factor.
The current Galaxy SmartTag 2 uses a replaceable CR2032 battery and delivers up to 500 days of battery life under normal conditions. Samsung also claims that Power Saving Mode can extend battery longevity by up to 40%.
A smaller squircle design with integrated Ring LED lighting could certainly make the SmartTag 3 look more modern. But for a product designed around convenience, practicality matters just as much as appearance.
A sleek redesign is welcome, but Samsung should be careful not to remove the small feature that made the SmartTag 2 so easy to use.
With devices such as the Galaxy S26 FE and Galaxy Tab S12 series expected later this year, Samsung may introduce the Galaxy SmartTag 3 alongside its upcoming hardware lineup.
Until then, the biggest question remains:
Will Samsung prioritize a better-looking tracker, or a better everyday experience?
