Apple Watch 2 To Face Tough Competition From Samsung Gear 3

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The much-rumored Apple Watch 2 is expected to be unveiled alongside the iPhone 7 next month. The next-gen wearable device will bring several new functionalities, and will run the watchOS 3. According to a survey conducted by NextWorth, roughly 50% of existing Apple Watch owners plan to upgrade to the new wearable device when it arrives. Another survey by Wristly found that an impressive 94% Apple Watch users are satisfied with their devices.

Apple Watch 2 to have OGS display

Apple is reportedly working to make the next iteration of the Watch much better than the original one. The Apple Watch 2 is said to feature an LTE chip for cellular connectivity, a FaceTime camera, built-in GPS, an improved battery life, expanded WiFi capabilities, and new bands. A recent report coming out of Asia claimed that Apple would use a “One Glass Solution” display in the Apple Watch 2 instead of the glass-on-glass technology. It will help reduce the thickness and weight of the new Watch.

Despite all the positive indication from surveys and added functionality, the Apple Watch 2 is unlikely to have an easy ride in the wearable market when it hit the store shelves. Apple’s arch-rival Samsung is planning to release its Gear 3 smartwatch at the upcoming IFA event in Berlin next month. The Gear 3 will be powered by Samsung’s Tizen OS 3.0.

Gear 3 to feature altimeter, barometer, speedometer

Sources familiar with the matter told SamMobile that the Gear 3 would look similar to its predecessor, but it will have a built-in GPS. The Gear 3 is said to include a speedometer that will provide data on average speed, current speed, and the distance covered. The device is geared for people with an active lifestyle. It would include a built-in altimeter to provide data about the current altitude. There will be a barometer sensor with manual calibration. The smartwatch will warn users of incoming bad weather if the atmospheric pressure changes by more than 4 hPa in a 3-hour period.

Apple anticipates strong demand for the Apple Watch 2. According to DigiTimes, the company has asked suppliers to ship as many as 2 million units per month. Only time will tell how it fares against the Gear 3.

 

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