The much-awaited Samsung Gear S3 launched yesterday, with the company unveiling not one but two new models for the Gear S3 edition.
Known as the Gear S3 Classic and Gear S3 Frontier, they offer both a handsome and rugged take on smartwatches, and follow the much-lauded S2, released in 2015 and regularly cited as the preferred smartwatch to the Apple Watch from its mobile phone rival.
The brand teamed up with notable Swiss watch designer Yvan Arpa of ArtyA to design the Gear S3, while Arik Levy, an industrial designer, was tasked with designing the dials and straps.
Launched at the IFA in Berlin, the watches are anticipated to hit shelves in time for Christmas.
Taking a closer look at each, the Gear S3 Classic features a polished outer case and ‘classic’ styling. It is larger than its predecessor, measuring 46mm, and both S3 models have an improved battery life, which Samsung says could last up to four days on a single charge. (Continued after video)
Watch Samsung’s Live Stream of the launch below:
https://youtu.be/EBmhKLj4Jeg
Compared to the Frontier, the S3 Classic only features Bluetooth connectivity, while the Frontier is equipped with GPS and LTE, enabling the wearer to make calls directly from their wrist.
The Gear S3 Frontier is sportier in its styling, while both models have IP68 rating, meaning they can be worn in the shower and are also dustproof. The Frontier also features an SOS signal for those adventurous types who might be caught in the wilderness with only their Gear S3 Frontier to hand.
Both watches run on a Tizen operating system, enabling wearers to choose from over 10,000 apps, and stream music, even when away from their phone.
KEY FEATURES
•1.3-inch 360×360 always-on display
•Dual-core 1GHz
•768MB of RAM
•4GB storage
•Bluetooth 4.2, Wi-Fi B/G/N, NFC, MST, GPS/Glonass
•Accelerometer, gyroscope, barometer, HRM, ambient light sensor
•380mAh battery and wireless charging
•IP68 rating
•Manufacturer: Samsung
•RRP – TBC
