Samsung debuts 3G-connected Gear S smartwatch

Standalone experience lets users make and receive calls directly from the watch

After spending most of 2014 being tossed about the rumor mill, the 3G-connected Samsung smartwatch is a reality. Today sees the hardware maker introducing the Gear S, a smartwatch capable of making and receiving calls directly from their wrist.

Expected to launch in global markets in October, the Gear S features a 2.0-inch Super AMOLED display at 360×480 pixel resolution. Powered by Samsung’s Tizen OS, the hardware includes a dual-core 1GHz processor, 512MB RAM, and 4GB internal storage. Multiple sensors can be found in the watch, including compass, heart rate, ambient light, UV, accelerometer, gyroscope, and barometer. And, rounding things out are the 300mAh battery, Bluetooth 4.1, and USB 2.0 ports.

In terms of software, the Gear S comes with S Health and Nike+ Running, as well as navigation, weather, media player, and news.

The Samsung Gear S is IP67 certified which means it will withstand dust and dirt and up to 30 minutes in one meter of water.

In addition to the new watch, Samsung is also announcing the Gear S, a Bluetooth headset for calls, music, voice commands, and more. This accessory boasts a magnetic lock which clasps around your neck when not used. There’s also a vibrate function to alert wearers of incoming calls and other notifications.

Pricing has not been disclosed for either device at this time; also unclear, launch markets. We suspect we’ll get more from Samsung in the coming days as IFA and CTIA kick off.

Samsung