Samsung has unveiled its Samsung Gear 2 and Gear 2 Neo that it says will take the "freedom, convenience and style" of wearables to a new level.
Speaking at the launch event in Barcelona last night, JK Shin, CEO and president of the IT and Mobile Division at Samsung, said Samsung had been listening to its customers and, in line with what they want, created devices that are "completely integrated into the lives of consumers through extended connectivity features, stylish customisation options and a robust application ecosystem".
Samsung has dropped the "Galaxy" part of the branding, as it has replaced the Android operating system (OS), with its own Tizen OS, and the devices are compatible with more than a dozen Samsung Galaxy smartphones.
Both the Gear 2 and the Gear 2 Neo have a lightweight modern design - coming in at 68g and 55g, respectively. In addition, extras such as the camera in the Gear 2 are built into the bezel, not the strap, making the watches sleeker and lighter.
Users can now swap out the strap to suit their outfit or mood, and the devices offer several colour choices, including charcoal black, gold brown and wild orange for the Gear 2, and charcoal black, mocha grey and wild orange for the Gear Neo.
Under the hood, the Gear 2 and Gear 2 Neo are slightly different. Both boast a 1.63-inch display, 1GHz dual-core processor with 512MB RAM, 4GB internal storage, 300mAh battery, infrared support and S Voice. Newly introduced, the pedometer and a heart rate monitor offer "personal fitness coaching in real-time" and permit users to develop their own, customisable, fitness routine.
Both devices are touted as "essential companion devices" and allow users to accept or ignore incoming calls and messages, and provide instant notification options based on their activity and habits.
In addition, Shin said both act as an extension of the user's daily life, with the inclusion of several standalone features, such as the ability to control electronic products such as a TV and set-top box through WatchON Remote application in their own home, with an embedded LED sensor.
For music lovers, the Gear 2 and Gear Neo now include a music player with a Bluetooth headset, removing the need for users to take their smartphones when going for a run, for example.
Samsung Gear 2 and Gear 2 Neo will be available in SA from mid-April.
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