Samsung Introduces New Gear S2 Smartwatch Ahead of IFA Launch

Instead of waiting for the IFA event scheduled this week, Samsung has officially unveiled its newest Gear S2 smartwatch.

According to a press release from the company, the wearable device will arrive in two different models but will sport the same specs.

Unlike Samsung's other smartwatches, the Gear S2 and its other variant, the Gear S2 Classic, are the company's first devices to come with a circular face. Both models feature a 1.2-inch Super AMOLED display with a rotating bezel. They run on an updated version of the Tizen operating system, which Techno Buffalo described as a mix between Google's Android Wear and Apple's WatchOS.

Also, the two models come with a 250mAh battery which Samsung claims can last up to two to three days of regular use.

As for their design elements, the Gear S2 looks like a typical high-tech smartwatch. The Gear S2 Classic, on the other hand, features a more traditional design similar to conventional luxury timepieces.

According to The Verge, users will be able to navigate through the Gear S2 using its rotating bezel. But aside from this, the device also has back and home buttons to provide users an easier way to scroll through the features of the smartwatch.

Through the Gear S2 or its Classic counterpart, users will be able to view notifications and even text messages sent to their smartphones. It also comes with fitness-related features that will remind users about their 24-activity log.

Both models also come with a variety of apps for the calendar, weather, maps and music player. Their connectivity options are supported by Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, NFC and Bluetooth 4.1. The devices also feature an accelerometer, gyroscope, heart rate sensor and barometer.

Samsung, however, did not reveal the pricing information or official release date of the Gear S2. These details will probably be unveiled on September 3 during the IFA event happening in Berlin. In addition, might also give members of the media the opportunity to try on the Gear S2 and Gear S2 Classic during the upcoming event.

Once the new smartwatch models come out, the public can expect to see a wide range of accessories for the devices. Samsung had already announced that it is working with other companies and developers to create different watch faces and bands for the Gear S2 and Gear S2 Classic. These accessories are also expected to be introduced during the IFA.