Samsung reveals Gear S smartwatch and Gear Circle smart necklace

28 Aug 2014

The Samsung Gear S smartwatch

Ahead of Apple’s expected smartwatch reveal, Samsung has upped the ante with a new Gear S smartwatch that boasts 3G connectivity and a 2-inch curved screen, as well as a new necklace device called Gear Circle.

The device comes with changeable straps, and as well as 3G connectivity, has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities.

This means users can have information from social networks, calendars and apps sent to their wrist even when they are away from their phone.

An onscreen keyboard, as well as S voice functionality, allows users to respond to messages or respond to calls forwarded from their phones.

The device comes with turn-by-turn navigation powered by HERE, as well as 24-hour news provided by The Financial Times.

The smartwatch has multiple sensors built in, including GPS, which works with health and fitness apps, such as Nike+ Running.

The Samsung smart necklace

The Samsung Gear Circle

Also revealed is the new Samsung Gear Circle necklace device, which when paired with a smartphone lets users easily receive calls, listen to music and make voice commands through a Bluetooth connection.

The device features a magnetic lock which clasps around the user’s neck when not in use and which has a vibration feature to alert the user to incoming calls and messages.

Both the Gear S and the Gear Circle will be launched globally from the start of October.

The Samsung Gear Circle

John Kennedy is a journalist who served as editor of Silicon Republic for 17 years

editorial@siliconrepublic.com