Samsung unveils Gear S2 smartwatch
Samsung is making another push into the increasingly competitive smartwatch market.
Ahead of the IFA consumer electronics show in Berlin, the electronics giant unveiled the Gear S2 smartwatch Monday. The device boasts a circular design with rotating bezel — the ring surrounding the display — as well as a 1.2-inch touchscreen. Samsung says the rotating bezel will offer a "more precise method" for accessing apps or notifications.
Samsung did not disclose the price of the watch.
The watch measures at less than half-an-inch thick, and will be available in two forms: the S2 and S2 Classic. It will include enhanced fitness options such as a 24-hour activity log and near-field communication (NFC) to support Samsung's mobile payments service. Samsung says the watch's battery lasts between two to three days, and carries 4 GB of internal storage. Samsung is working with partners on other ways to leverage the watch, including for use as a smart car key or remote for a connected home.
One critical feature of the new S2: 3G connectivity that will allow users to perform "quick functions" without being tethered to a smartphone. Most smartwatches require a companion smartphone app to access Wi-Fi and perform most of its key features.
Samsung has launched several smartwatches since the original Galaxy Gear made its debut two years ago. However, none seem to have captured consumers' attention like rival devices including the Apple Watch.
After launching its smartwatch last spring, Apple is now in second place behind Fitbit in worldwide market share for wearables, according to IDC. Fitbit commands a 24% share of the market in the second quarter, while Apple holds nearly 20%. Samsung is fifth at 0.6%.
The primary concern with Samsung smartwatches, says IDC, are the limited selection of compatible devices that support a smartwatch. "Given Samsung's history of making its latest wearable devices compatible only with Samsung's top models and nearly exclusive reliance on Tizen, the company has limited its potential reach."
Follow USA TODAY reporter Brett Molina on Twitter: @brettmolina23.