Samsung Debuts Tizen Powered Gear S3 Smartwatches at IFA Trade Show

At the globally renowned IFA trade show in Berlin, Samsung unveiled its much-anticipated new smartwatches- the Classic and the Frontier versions of the Tizen powered Gear S3. These two models, while maintaining unique aesthetic elements retain almost equivalent technical specifications.

The pioneering wearable devices produced by Samsung integrate Long-Term Evolution (LTE) technology, transforming them effectively into wrist-mounted smartphones. Among the key features they offer include:

– A robust 380mAh battery, cited to last up to four days upon a single charge, with an added ability to double this limit using a battery saver mode.
– An IP68 water-resistance rating, providing dust protection even under prolonged submersion.
– A 1 GHz dual-core processor for smooth operation.
– Handwriting recognition to simplify data input.
– Support for the Tizen operating system with an open beta iOS version.
– A 1.3″ circular, full-color Gorilla Glass SR+ display with a 360×360 pixel resolution, capable of an “Always-On” functionality.
– Stylish and customizable wristbands, made from various materials such as leather or rubber, conforming to the standard 22mm size.
– A tough 316L stainless steel chassis.
– A combination of 4GB and 768MB RAM.
– Integrated GPS for superior navigation.
– Compatibility with Samsung Pay for facilitated transactions.

Additional features of these timepieces include a speedometer and barometer for tracking weather conditions and a distance measurement tool for fitness enthusiasts. The Gear S3 also mirrors your smartphone’s functionality, including the ability to connect with emergency services and to accept or decline calls without having to touch the device’s screen.

While the Classic and Frontier models share many similarities, one distinct differentiating factor is the provision of only Wi-Fi on the Classic model and the option of both 3G/LTE on the Frontier.

Based on comparisons between the S3 and its predecessor, the S2, though the S2 will continue to be available on the market for the immediate future, the newer model is slightly larger by a margin of 1.5mm.

In response to Samsung’s latest release, Apple is expected to strengthen their own line-up next week with the launch of the Apple Watch 2.

This article was updated in 2025 to reflect modern realities.