We recently published one of the images that had already appeared on the new Samsung Galaxy Gear. Here the device appeared with a really ugly design, too rough, rough, as if they had tried to condense all the components in a watch and had put a strap on it. However, that will not be the final design.
And thank goodness, because it was really ugly. Now we do know that the new Samsung Galaxy Gear It will not have that ugly design that we saw in those photographs, but it will be a smart watch with a much more stylish and much more careful design. That is the least that could be expected from a device that could be the new paradigm of the market. However, the truth is that the alarms went off when we saw the images, because it is not that we can expect great design from Samsung. And it is not that their phones are ugly, but design has not been a priority in recent years, opting for plastic to make their smartphones instead of other materials such as glass or metal.
The new Samsung Galaxy Gear It could have a design really similar to the Samsung Galaxy S4, but adapted to the screen size of the device. In fact, it is most likely that this will be the case, because if not, there would only be two possibilities. On the one hand, it could be similar to the new design that Samsung will launch in future generations for all its smartphones and tablets. This possibility, however, does not make much sense, since it would still be a long way from the other smartphone that would have that design. On the other hand, it could be a totally different design than what Samsung has done so far. This does not make much sense either. Despite what is said, the main focus of buyers of the Galaxy Gear These are users who already have a Galaxy, and the best thing that could happen is that they have a watch with the same design as their smartphones or tablets. In any case, we will have to wait for the Official presentation from Samsung to see the final design.
Design, dimensions and materials
Compared to the first prototypes, the Gear is consolidated with an aesthetic technological and industrial highlighted by the metal frame and the four screws visible around the screen. This decision underlines a sense of sturdiness on the wrist without giving up soft lines.
In hand, the watch is big and striking, longer than it is wide, and fits in with the trend towards voluminous formats. Official figures place the body at around 56,6 x 36,8 x 11,1 mm and a weight close to 73,8 g, measures that help to understand why it is perceived as forceful, yet comfortable for daily use.
The belt is integrated in the design itself because it houses part of the product's logic, including the camera. Made of plastic with a finish rugged and available in six colors, offers a more fashionable touch and allows to distinguish profiles (sporty or classic) without breaking the aesthetic coherence of the whole.
That industrial look won't stop it from being attractive on the wrist: the balance between metal and textured strap achieves a polished presence that fits with an everyday accessory.
Screen and visual experience
The panel is a 1,63 inch sAMOLED with resolution 320 x 320, sufficient for a clear display of areas, notifications, and photos in that size. The vividness of AMOLED provides contrast and a good viewing angle, which is key outdoors.
To extend the autonomy, the screen remains off by default. It is activated with the side button or by means of a wrist twist Configurable. This gesture detection may occasionally fail and add a small delay, a price that can be assumed in exchange for gaining hours of use.
Interface, controls and key functions
An unique side button organizes the interaction: one touch returns Home, double tap throws S Voice and three taps activate a emergency mode that shares location with a predefined contact. Navigation through the interface is based on horizontal (apps) and vertical (camera up and phone down).
The Gear is not just a “window” to the mobile: it integrates microphone and speaker to answer and make calls from the wrist. The social gesture may be shocking at first, but the audio quality It is notable for short conversations.
En notifications, the behavior varies: native apps (SMS or system mail) display useful content, while many of third parties They simply notify you and ask you to open it on your phone. This is a software limitation that can be improved with updates, but it's worth keeping in mind.
Autonomy, load and resistance
The battery, of 315 mAh, is designed for use full time when the clock remains synchronized with your cell phone. The ideal routine is to leave it charging overnight, just like you would a smartphone.
Recharging is done by means of a cradle owner who connects by microUSB. It fits securely and speeds up the charging process, although it does require carrying an additional accessory.
In resistance, Samsung declares IP55: that is to say, protection against dust and splashes, But it is not submersible. It can coexist with handwashing, but showers or immersion should be avoided.
Camera on the strap and real uses
One of its unique features is the camera 1,9 MP with autofocus integrated into the strap. Allows quick photos y 720p video at 30 fps without taking your phone out of your pocket. The app Memographer facilitates “on the fly” captures when the priority is not to miss the moment.
It is not a substitute for the smartphone: the gunshot noise It can be a bit inconspicuous, and framing requires practice. Still, for casual scenes or visual notes, it's surprisingly useful.
Compatibility, philosophy and indicative price
His proposal follows the vision of smartphone accessory: Paired with Galaxy models is where it really takes advantage of its value (on-wrist calls, optimized apps, and always-on syncing). Built-in memory 512 MB of RAM y 4 GB storage for basic apps and content.
At its launch, a price of 299 Euros, a figure in line with what it offered: high-quality materials and finishes, calls from the wrist, an integrated camera, and a specific app ecosystem. The true perceived value will depend on the balance between design, usability and the evolution of with in notifications and compatibility.
The Samsung Galaxy Gear's design features a well-crafted industrial aesthetic, a highly usable AMOLED panel, and bold choices (for calls and the camera) that give it a distinct personality. With polished gestures, notifications, and battery life, the form factor shines as a powerful complement to those already within the Galaxy ecosystem.
