Talk of Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Gear device has been circulating ever since the Korean company filed trademark applications for the name earlier this summer, but now Bloomberg is reporting a launch date for the wristwatch that could double as a smartphone. Samsung will reportedly unveil the new product September 4, two days before the IFA consumer electronics show starts, and six days before Apple is expected to launch its newest iPhone.
The Galaxy Gear is expected to be an Android device worn on the wrist that can make phone calls, send texts and emails, and surf the Internet. It would be the first such product to hit the market; existing “smart watches” can load mobile apps but cannot make calls.
Wearable wireless is emerging as an increasingly interesting category for device makers, and many think consumers are much more likely to wear a device on their wrist than to attach one to their head. Although Google’s Glass has generated tremendous interest and media attention, its practicality and affordability are unproven. Wristwatches, on the other hand, already represent a $60 billion global market, and the popularity of the smartphone proves that consumers are more than willing to trade a functional device for a new one that can do more.
If a Samsung watch does materialize on September 4 it could indeed divert some public attention from whatever Apple may have planned for September 10. At the same time, it may steal attention from another important Samsung launch: the company is expected to launch the Galaxy Note III on September 4 as well.
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