Just a week ahead of Apple's planned September 7 event, Samsung today unveiled its latest smart watch, the Gear S3. Samsung's newest wearable device comes in two varieties - a "Classic" model with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi and "Frontier" model that features LTE support. GPS, a new feature, is built into each model.
An always-on Super AMOLED display is included and with LTE, the Frontier model, positioned as the more rugged, outdoor Gear S3 watch, can load data quickly enough to stream songs from music services like Spotify.
Both Gear S3 models look similar, with a 46mm solid steel case and a rotating bezel (adopted from the Gear S2) that's used to swap between watch faces and select apps. The Gear S3 uses standard 22mm watch bands that are compatible with a wide range of third-party band options, and its larger body houses a 380 mAh battery that's able to last up to four days between charges.
Samsung Gear S3 is available in two bold designs to suit different users' lifestyles: frontier and classic. Inspired by the active explorer, the Gear S3 frontier evokes a rugged outdoor look with an enduring style that blends form and function. The frontier was designed to perform in any setting or environment - whether business or leisure. The Gear S3 classic pays homage to the minimalist, elegant style found in the most iconic timepieces. The classic was designed with meticulous attention to detail -- with its size and shape chosen to attain the same consistency and balance of a well-crafted luxury watch.
Other features built into both the Gear S3 Classic and the Gear S3 Frontier include the same activity tracking options available in all Gear smart watches, IP-68 water resistance, miltary-level durability, barometer/speedometer, support for Samsung Pay and MST/NFC payment transactions, and speakers. The Gear S3 also uses Corning's new Gorilla Glass SR+, said to be super scratch resistant.
The Gear S3 continues to use Samsung's Tizen operating system. Software updates being introduced today will also be brought to the Gear S2, Samsung's previous generation Smart Watch that will continue to exist in the Gear lineup.
Samsung has not yet unveiled pricing or a specific release date for the Gear 3 smart watch, but it is expected to be released in the U.S. later this year.
Apple may release details on its next-generation Apple Watch at its September event. Rumors suggest the device will include a faster processor, a better battery, and built-in GPS, but design changes are not expected.
Update: According to a Samsung representative that spoke to SamMobile, the Gear S3 will work with the iPhone, likely via the Gear mobile app that's in development for iOS devices.
