Samsung smartwatch

Making a strong bid to further strengthen its position in the handheld devices market globally, Samsung Electronics on Wednesday unveiled three new devices — the Galaxy Note 3; a smartwatch called Galaxy Gear and Galaxy Note 10.1 2014 edition tablet ahead of the IFA consumer electronics fair here.

The introduction of Galaxy Gear is significant as Samsung has created a new category with this wrist watch device that seamlessly connects with Galaxy Note 3, making communication a far superior experience.

Galaxy Gear is priced at $299, and has been designed and developed by Samsung’s U.S.-based think-tank team led by Pranav Mistry. According to trade analysts, Galaxy Gear is likely to make a strong impact in the market before others catch up.

It will be available with the Note 3 in 149 countries starting from September 25. It will be launched in the U.S. and Japan markets in October. Samsung has not announced the country-specific prices for any of these devices.

“Samsung Galaxy Gear bridges the gap between the mobile device and fashion worlds to create truly wearable technology,” said JK Shin, CEO and President of IT & Mobile Division at Samsung Electronics.

“It notifies users of incoming messages, such as calls, texts, e-mails and alerts, delivers a preview of those messages and creates the opportunity for users to accept or discreetly ignore those messages,” Mr. Pranav Mistry said at the launch.

Hands-free calls

The built-in speaker in the Gear allows users to conduct hands-free calls directly, maintaining connections to their mobile communications without disrupting their daily routines. Users can also draft messages, create new calendar entries, set alarms, and check the weather on the Gear with S Voice. One can also take pictures with the Gear.

Enhanced viewing

Galaxy Note 3 delivers a larger and better screen for enhanced viewing experience. It has more powerful multi-tasking capabilities. Samsung has introduced an improved S Pen that aims at making everyday life easier and faster.

The Note 3 comes with a wider 5.7-inch full HD super display, yet slimmer (8.3 mm) and lighter (168 g) hardware design, and more powerful and longer lasting (3,200mAh) battery. It is equipped with a 13 megapixel rear camera.