Smartwatches in fashion as Samsung launches two new versions

11 months ago

Samsung has widened its smartwatch collection with two new premium versions of the Gear S2, one in 18-karat rose gold, the other in platinum.

At the Korean technology giant’s press conference ahead of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, the firm announced the two new versions of the wearable, as well as a new hybrid tablet that runs Windows 10.

Smartwatches have exploded in popularity since 2013, when Samsung launched their first Galaxy Gear smartwatch. The current generation Gear S2 was launched last year.

Samsung’s Younghee Lee said: “in 2015, we set a new standard with the Gear S2 in smart wearable category. We broke barriers to introduce one of Samsung’s most progressive wearable devices to date.

“In 2016, we will continue to raise the bar, so that we can deliver products that our customers want most.”

Many smartwatch manufacturers, including the likes of Apple, LG, Motorola and Huawei have made greater attempts to create fashion-driven wearables. Rose gold has been a popular material choice as a result.

The two new watches are joined by a range of new straps and watch faces for the fashion-conscious devices.

Samsung also announced the Galaxy TabPro S, a tablet that comes with a keyboard – similar to hybrid products such as the Microsoft Surface and iPad Pro.

As is tradition at CES, Samsung also updated its high-end TV line-up too, at the top of which is a new bezel-less curved SUHD. Bezels refer to the frame that sits around a television and have been reducing in size in recent years.

A series of home appliances, including a new smart fridge and two washing machines were also confirmed.

The technology manufacturer also confirmed during the event that the Gear S2 would add compatibility for Apple’s iOS “later this year”.

The move would enable iPhone users to connect a Gear S2 with their device in order to use it.

Other manufacturers, including Huawei and Pebble already have their smartwatches operate across multiple platforms, however the Apple Watch i only compatible with its native iOS.