One week after Galaxy Note 8, Samsung preps new wearables
Samsung may only be one week removed from its Galaxy Note 8 announcement, but it isn't done refreshing its products.
On Wednesday, the electronics giant is set to introduce updates to its Gear S smartwatch line and Gear Fit fitness tracker at the IFA electronics show in Berlin. Samsung first teased the update last week at the end of its Note 8 presentation, and followed up up on Monday with a new teaser tweet.
Samsung's new wearables are likely to be fitness-focused. One of the new devices, the Gear Fit 2 Pro fitness tracker, was leaked briefly last week on Samsung's website where it was spotted by Venture Beat's Evan Blass. Among the expected upgrades to this year's model: better swim tracking and improved water resistance (submerged to a50 meters or roughly 164 feet).
Last year's Gear Fit 2 was IP68 certified, or water-resistant to roughly five feet of water for up to 30 minutes. The new water resistance makes the latest Gear Fit 2 Pro comparable to the Apple Watch Series 2.
The new device looks to keep the curved display of its predecessor, but add a more traditional watch clasp instead of the snap-on clasp used on the Fit 2. In addition to tracking swims the band will keep the ability to monitor your heart rate and count steps.
Also new: Offline Spotify support for listening to your playlist while you work out, even when separated from your phone.
Samsung is also said to be updating its Gear S smartwatch line with a new Sport watch. Not much yet is known about fresh features for this model but it is expected to have a similar fitness-focused bend.
Samsung's update comes amid speculation that Apple will be refreshing its Apple Watch line at next month's rumored iPhone event. Beyond smartphones, both Apple and Samsung have traditionally used the fall to update their respective wearable lines.
Follow Eli Blumenthal on Twitter @eliblumenthal
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