Samsung Galaxy Gear 2 and Galaxy Gear Neo Smart Watches Launched

Samsung has taken the wraps off its follow up to the Galaxy Gear smartwatch, introducing two new models – the Galaxy Gear 2 and a lighter version, the Galaxy Gear 2 Neo, at an event in Barcelona.

Both devices feature a 1.63-inch Super AMOLED, 320×320 screen, a 1.0GHz dual-core processor and running on a Samsung’s OS Tizen. The 2.0 Megapixel camera is now located in the watch body instead of the strap, and Samsung added an IrLED sensor so users can control their TVs and set top boxes via the Samsung WatchON Remote application.

Samsung adds up a fitness feature, including a heart rate sensor, pedometer and downloadable sleep and stress monitors to both devices that will provide more data to improve the fitness applications available for the watch. Additionally, heart rate monitoring allows for more accurate sleep monitoring, a feature that will probably drive a lot of the growth in the wearable devices market.

Like other smartwatches, the Galaxy Gear 2 and Galaxy Gear Neo are meant as companion devices to your smartphone and will connect via Bluetooth to let you answer or ignore calls and check notifications.

Samsung also decided to turn the new Gear 2 into a wearable music player, thanks to its standalone music player with Bluetooth player. Users will be able to go running outdoors listening to music without the need to carry their smartphones.

Both watches are IP7 certified dust and water resistant so, while we wouldn’t take them for a dip in the pool, there’s no need to worry about checking the display in the driving rain.

Samsung quotes battery life for typical usage at two to three days, with light usage upping it to six days.

“Offering extended connectivity features, stylish customization options and a robust application network, we have enhanced everything that people love about the original Galaxy Gear,” said Simon Stanford, vice president of IT and mobile division at Samsung UK.

The Galaxy Gear 2 will come with Charcoal Black, Gold Brown and Wild Orange strap color options, and the Galaxy Gear 2 Neo will get Charcoal Black, Mocha Grey and Wild Orange options. The Gear 2 is slightly heavier (68g) than the Gear 2 Neo (55g). The Galaxy Gear Neo does not have a camera.

Both devices will be available in April, no word on the pricing yet and no information regarding smartphone models compatibility.

Sources: Ubergizmo, T3

Image Credit: ubergizmo.com