Samsung Electronics Unveils Gear S Smartwatch Powered by Tizen

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd (LON:BC94) (KRX:005935) unveiled its next generation smartwatch called Gear S prior to the IFA 2014 in Berlin next month.

The Gear S powered by Tizen mobile operating system and comes with an independent 3G connectivity, Wi-Fi connectivity and Bluetooth. The smartwatch sports a 2-inch Super Amoled curve display with 360 x 480 resolution.

In a statement, JK Shin, the head of mobile communications at Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd (LON:BC94) (KRX:005935)  said, ” “Samsung is leading this exciting and rapidly developing wearable category through progressive innovation. The Samsung Gear S redefines the idea of the smart wearable and the culture of mobile communication. It will let consumers live a truly connected life anywhere, anytime.”

The South Korean electronics manufacturer said the Gear S is powered by a 1GHz dual-core processor and it integrated with different sensors including a barometer, compass, GPS, pulse reader and UV monitor. The smartwatch has 512 MB of RAM and 4GB of internal memory.

Since the Gear S has an independent 3G connectivity, users does not need to constantly pair the smartwatch wireless to their smartphones to be able to make a call or send messages.

In addition, the Gear S has a standalone music player, but it has no camera. Furthermore, the smartwatch features a Qwerty keyboard to allow users to send messages.

The device is also integrated with Nokia’s HERE navigation, a 300mAh battery, which lasts 2 days of normal usage, according to the company. It is IP67 certified dust and water resistant.

Moreover, the South Korean electronics giant also announced the Gear Circle, a new ring-style headphone that connects through Bluetooth. The headphone has a magnetic lock that clasps around a user’s neck when not in use. It vibrates to alert the users of incoming calls or notifications. The Gear Circle headphone has a microphone for chatting and receiving voice commands.

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd (LON:BC94) (KRX:005935) said the Gear S and the Gear Circle will be available in the market by October, but the company did not yet reveal the price of the devices.