IDC reckons the wearable market will grow at a compounded rate of 28% annually. Among the main contributors to the growth will be smartwatches which made up for 34 million units shipped this year and the forecast is to reach 80 million in the next five years.
Android and iOS are the two main players in the wearable watch market with Samsung shaping itself as a differentiator with its own propriety operating software to become a key contender in the segment.
The world was first introduced to the Samsung smartwatch, the Gear S back in 2014. The second iteration was just launched this year in October with an improved specification and better performance.
AROUND THE WRIST
Samsung has taken the conventional route for the design, going with 99% of watch designs in the market, the company has stuck with circular as its choice while a certain brand went square.
In terms of size, the watch fits snuggly at 51.8 x 44 x 13.4 mm, a standard wrist watch size and has a diameter of 1.2 inch with 360 x 360 Amoled display, which is rather bright even in daylight. Interesting to note is how the screen comes alive whenever you tilt to look at it, a clever energy saving feature that will help keep the battery running longer, a gripe for many as common smartwatches require charging every 2-3 days. Gear S2 lasted a fraction more and uses wireless charging method to juice up.
The model PC.com received was the Bluetooth White sport edition with a rotating silver bezel, a unique feature that allows easy navigation of functions by jogging it left and right. Other models available include a Grey coloured version, Classic with leather straps and 3G variations as well.
There are two buttons on the one side for home and the other, a back button. The stainless steel case and Gorilla glass adds elegance and rigidity. The weight coming in at just 51 grams its lighter than AppleWatch!
EASY FUNCTIONS
First time users of this device will have no problem understanding the instruction or the complexity of the device, it’s basically ready-to-wear out the box. Simple setting of time, date and pair with your android phone via Bluetooth and you’re set. The touch screen is intuitive with no lag or responsive issues,
The open source Tizen operating software works seamlessly with any Android device. in our case we paired it with the Galaxy S6 and notifications were instantly pushed to the watch. Reading messages wasn’t difficult. You can either touch the screen or use the bezel. I really wished we had this during our exam days.
However, despite the lack of apps on Tizen, there is enough to make this device worth the RM1,399 price tag, like fitness trackers, S Health, Nike+ and CNN. Also, there are many watch faces to choose from. Personally, we like the chronograph.
Verdict: Cleverly thought out and designed smartwatch, a fitting choice for anyone.
Value: 8.5
Performance: 9
Features: 8
Design: 8.5
Usability: 9
Total Score: 8.6
Written by Selva Rajan
