14 DAY TRIAL // While Apple is expected to unveil a new-generation Watch at the company’s event on September 12, Samsung used the IFA show in Berlin to take the wraps off its new series of wearables, which includes two different models, namely the Gear Sport and the Gear Fit 2 Pro.
Naturally, both devices are optimized for activity tracking, though they also come with features that allow them to double as a smartwatch, fitting Samsung smartphones just nice. Samsung’s smartwatches, however, also work with iPhones, though you won’t enjoy the full lineup of features.
Samsung Gear Sport
The Samsung Gear Sport is the model that looks more like a watch, coming with a 1.2-inch circular Super AMOLED display with resolution of 360x360 pixels and Gorilla Glass 3 protection.
The device is powered by a dual-core 1.0 GHz chip coupled with 768MB RAM and 4GB storage. It runs on a 300 mAh battery and comes with the typical wireless charging system that’s been used on all Samsung wearables.
The Gear Sport features a GPS sensor, so it can track your workout without the need for a smartphone to provide mapping capabilities. It also integrates an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a barometer, a HR monitor, and an ambient light sensor, while in terms of connectivity it features support for Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC.
The device will be available in black and blue and comes with IP68 water-resistance up to 50 meters. It boasts the MIL_STD-810G shock-proof rating and uses 20mm straps. No specifics have been provided on price and availability, but expect the device to become available shortly.
Samsung Gear Fit 2 Pro
The Gear Fit 2 Pro is more obviously aimed at sporty people and athletes, and features the typical Gear Fit design that brings it closer to an activity band than to a smartwatch.
As compared to the standard Gear Fit 2, the Pro model features improved water resistance, with the device now able to withstand up water up to 50 meters deep. This makes it appropriate for swimming and Samsung has even partnered with Speedo to launch a swim tracking app that will be pre-installed by default.
New bands are also being offered on this model, and they feature a buckle strap that should make the device a bit more comfortable overall.
The rest of the specs are unchanged, so you get a 1.5-inch Super AMOLED display, a GPS sensor, and a 200 mAh battery that should easily get you through the day unless you use the GPS module too much every day. The Gear Fit 2 Pro will go on sale on August 31 at $199.
