Wearable technology to offer freedom in mobile communications

Sydney, Australia – Wednesday, 18 September, 2013 – Samsung Electronics Australia today announced the GALAXY Gear is available for pre-order tomorrow, Samsung’s first wearable mobile technology range and companion device for the latest GALAXY Note 3. GALAXY Gear will go on sale at selected retailers on Thursday, 3 October 2013 for an RRP of $369.00, with pre-sales commencing today at Samsung Experience Stores from 2pm.

Announced globally on September 5 in Berlin, Samsung GALAXY Gear combines smart device connectivity, stylish design and Samsung’s latest mobile technology in the form of a sleek wrist watch.

“GALAXY Gear represents an exciting step for Samsung in pioneering innovation that provides users with a meaningful experience and offers greater freedom when using our mobile technology.” said Tyler McGee, Vice President – Telecommunications for Samsung Electronics Australia. “We feel GALAXY Gear will completely change the mobile technology landscape and we’re extremely proud to deliver the device to Australians just weeks after it was announced globally,” he added.

When in close proximity, Samsung GALAXY Gear operates as a companion device to the GALAXY Note 3 * through Bluetooth technology that gives users the ability make phone calls, use supported mobile apps and capture content via the GALAXY Gear camera. It is available in a range of six colours, including Jet Black, Mocha Gray, Wild Orange, Oatmeal Beige, Rose Gold, and Lime Green (colour availability may vary by retailer).

“GALAXY Gear is a carefully crafted balance of premium design and high functionality. It’s a beautiful device that gives users the ability to create, read and interact with mobile content from their wrist. With GALAXY Gear, Samsung has created a new way for Australians to experience Samsung’s mobile content and communicate with the world around them.” McGee said.

Mobile Freedom in Wearable Technology 

Samsung GALAXY Gear lets users live in the moment while staying connected to their Samsung GALAXY Note 3 device*. It notifies users of incoming messages, such as calls, texts, emails and alerts, and delivers a preview of those messages on the device screen. It also allows users to accept or discreetly ignore messages received via their Note 3 mobile device from their wrist. When an incoming message or call requires more than a quick glance, users can respond using the Smart Relay feature designed to reveal more detailed message content on their companion Samsung GALAXY Note 3 device. 

Voice and Smartphone Operation 

Samsung GALAXY Gear includes an audio speaker that allows users to conduct hands-free calls, maintaining a verbal connection to their mobile contacts, all from the wrist*. Users can also verbally draft text messages and emails, create new calendar entries, set alarms, and check the weather from the GALAXY Gear using Samsung’s innovative S Voice feature^.

Audio and Visual Content Recording 

In addition to enabling smart controls linked to the latest GALAXY Note 3 device, Samsung GALAXY Gear introduces several new features that help users easily capture life’s meaningful moments which otherwise might be missed. Using the Memographer feature, supported by a 1.9 Megapixel camera, users on the move or participating in physical activities can record photos and video to create visual records^^. Extending innovation designed make capturing visual and audio content quickly, the Voice Memo feature lets users capture important conversations and convert audio voice recordings into texts on their companion Samsung GALAXY 3 device.

Features, Controls and Security 

The new Samsung GALAXY Gear mobile companion software features a security function called Auto Lock, designed to automatically secure the GALAXY Note 3 device any time the GALAXY Gear is more than 1.5 metres away. Auto Lock will also unlock the smartphone when the GALAXY Gear is less than 1.5 metres in range.

Find My Device helps users find the location of their smart devices when they have been misplaced by producing a beeping sound, as well as illuminating and vibrating when activated.

GALAXY Gear users can also skip through, play and pause audio and music files played on their companion GALAXY Note 3 device.

For the fitness conscious, GALAXY Gear also features a Pedometer that can track physical activity via built-in sensor technology. This feature systematically and automatically monitors physical movements of the user so they can track key personal data such as calories burned, steps taken and distances covered when running or walking.

Designed for Fashion Conscious 

With a sleek design, available in a range of colours and engineered to be lightweight and attractive, Samsung GALAXY Gear form factor is rounded and easily wraps around the wrist for a comfortable fit.

GALAXY Gear also serves as a wristwatch and includes several face options giving users the option to personalise the device face. It also comes preloaded with 9 different clock options with further choices set to be made available for download via Samsung Apps soon. The GALAXY Gear experience can be further personalized by selecting from six wrist band colour options: Jet Black, Mocha Gray, Wild Orange, Oatmeal Beige, Rose Gold, and Lime Green (colour availability may vary by retailer).

Availability

The GALAXY Gear will be available for pre-sale purchase today and will go on sale Thursday, 3 October 2013 with an RRP of $369.00 at the Samsung Experience Stores in Melbourne and Sydney. The range will also be available through selected Samsung retail partners and telecommunications operators.

Samsung GALAXY Gear Product Specifications  

# The availability of each Featured App, Samsung Apps, Samsung Hub and Google service may differ by country.

* To access GALAXY Note 3 features, GALAXY Gear and GALAXY Note 3 must be in close proximity and connected via Bluetooth.   

^ Performance of S Voice function may vary depending on the language spoken and surrounding environment including ambient noise. 

^^ Internet connection required. Data and subscription charges may apply. 

All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.