The new Gear S3 also runs a slightly newer version of Samsung’s smartwatch operating system: the Tizen-based wearable platform 2.3.2, vs 2.3.1 for the Gear S2.
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Samsung has brought over the rotating bezel from the Gear S2 to the Gear S3, but that feature has more capabilities on the Gear S3.
In line with the hints that Samsung dropped in its invite for the event, the company has launched its much-awaited Gear S3 smartwatch at the IFA 2016 in Berlin. Rounding out the Gear S3’s feature set is Bluetooth 4.2, Wi-Fi, GPS/Glonass, a built-in speaker, 4G LTE connectivity, and a case that’s IP68 rated for dust and water resistance.
There are also some slight differences in the design of the Classic and Frontier Samsung Gear S3 smartwatches.
They’re larger watches than those in the Gear S2 range, with thicker casings and bigger 1.3ins (33mm) screens, and won’t be an essential upgrade for some, says The Verge.
To begin let’s start with the specs of Samsung Gear S3. It’s nearly identical to Gear S3 Classic specifications-wise.
Both designs accept 22mm watch straps, and users are free to replace the straps with those they like. One of the biggest design changes with the Classic version is that it has a pair of raised crowns on its right edge; like the Frontier edition, the S2 lineup’s buttons were flush with the edges.
Samsung is packing everything it can into its smartwatch this year. The watches have a Super AMOLED panel that can give the always-on watch face a good addition of colorful pictures.
The Gear S3 supports Samsung Pay via NFC and MST (magnetic secure transmission), the latter providing compatibility with older-style mag-stripe terminals.
The Gear S3 looks like a normal watch.
In a rather interesting note, the Korean firm is touting a four day battery life for the Gear S3, thanks to the 380mAh battery and power-efficient innards. The display comes with full colour and is protected by a Corning Gorilla Glass cover. Spotify has a Gear S3 app, and there’s also an app for your Nest thermostat available soon.
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This is the closest a smartwatch has ever been to a real analogue watch and I’m interested to see how well this sells around the globe when it is made available in the fall.
