The Samsung Gear S2 blends style and substance to create a wearable that is at once distinctive and practical. First launched in 2015, the smartwatch is continuously evolving. As it does so, it has also incorporated several enhanced functions from Samsung’s latest smartwatches, reflecting the company’s unwavering commitment to refining the user experience of wearables. The Gear S2 will now become better than ever thanks to a new software update.

Let’s take a look at the features of the new update that will make the Gear S2 more convenient and even easier to use.

Clearer User Interface

At first sight, the user experience has undergone several noticeable changes. The update optimizes the icons and widgets for the Gear S series’ hallmark circular display. The new look of the user experience enhances the unified appearance of each screen, enabling the content to be viewed more easily.

(Left) App Shortcuts widget (Center and Right) Swipe down to view Quick Panel

Design is not only about form, so the device’s functions have also been carefully considered to increase usability. The new App Shortcuts widget now automatically places your most recent apps, but you can still manually select your favorites. Additionally, the Gear S2’s Quick Panel for fast settings such as display brightness, volume and airplane mode can now be viewed by swiping down from all screens – not just the watch face.

Personalized Training On Your Wrist

(Left) Samsung Health widget (Center) Multi-workout widget (Right) Inactivity Alert

With a smarter and even more intuitive Samsung Health, it’s easier to manage and track your activity.  Health information, such as pace count and heart rate, are easier to read on the screen at a quick glance. What’s more, if you have a preferred type of regular exercise, you can get quicker access to it by setting it as a preset on the newly added Multi-workout widget. There are now additional Inactivity Alert’s options too, so you can stretch when it’s convenient to do so.

View on your Samsung Phone or TV and control with your Gear S2

When the Gear S2 is connected to Samsung Health on your smartphone, there are even more options to explore. The Weight Management feature, for instance, displays your daily exercise and caloric intake. In addition, as well as viewing your real-time heart rate, you can access and control exercise-related video content with your Gear S2, after connecting the device to a smartphone synced to your TV, to experience a professional fitness program at home.

Control for PowerPoint and Gear VR

(Left) Gear VR Controller (Right) PPT Controller

The updated Gear S2 is able to connect with even more of the hardware and software you already use and enjoy. For example, download the Gear VR Controller app and you will be able to manipulate the Gear VR with your Gear S2 as you interact with VR content.

For office workers who want to make the right impression with their presentations, the PPT Controller app allows them to control the display of PowerPoint slides – even offering a timer function – so they can ensure a slick presentation, without having to remember to bring a PowerPoint clicker.

Be Prepared, Whatever the Weather

(Left) Weather widget (Right) Detailed View of the day’s weather

Gear S2 wearers are unlikely to be caught out by unexpected change in the weather again, thanks to the simple – yet detailed – weather information they receive every morning on the Gear S2. The device provides useful forecast updates, so that users can prepare for whatever the weather may bring that day. The information includes daily highest and lowest temperatures, along with wind chill and temperature differences from the previous day. You can also look up sunrise and sunset hours, probability of rainfall, UV index and other various weather details to make sure you’re fully informed before you leave the house.

The Gear S2’s latest software update is available to download via the Samsung Gear app.

Starting today, users can download the Samsung Gear S app for the Gear S2 and Gear S3 or the Samsung Gear Fit app for the Gear Fit2 on compatible iOS devices* from the Apple App Store. Once the appropriate app is downloaded, users will be guided through steps to complete pairing with the user’s compatible Samsung wearable device.

“We’re constantly looking for ways to enhance our offerings and we do this in part by listening to what our customers want – and that includes greater access to our cutting-edge wearable technologies with iOS support,” said Younghee Lee, Executive Vice President of Global Marketing, Mobile Communications at Samsung Electronics. “By offering Android and iOS compatibility with our latest Gear devices, we’re giving users more ways to optimize their wearable experiences and connect to Samsung’s Galaxy of possibilities.”

While features and functions will vary by device, iOS users will be able to enjoy the Samsung Gear S3’s timeless and stylish design, IP68 water and dust resistance, as well as the built-in GPS, Alti/barometer and Speedometer apps. It is available in two bold models – the Gear S3 frontier, which takes inspiration from the active explorer with a rugged design, as well as the Gear S3 classic, featuring an elegant style with the balance found on luxury timepieces. Users will also be able to track their fitness by monitoring distance and route traveled, running pace, calories burned and heart rate.

Samsung wearable devices with iOS compatibility are currently available in markets where Samsung Gear devices are sold. The services and features of Samsung Gear devices may be limited for certain iOS devices and their applications. For additional product information, please visit http://www.samsungmobilepress.com.

* Compatible devices: iPhone 5, iPhone 5S, iPhone 5C, iPhone 6, iPhone 6+, iPhone 6S, iPhone 6S+, iPhone 7, iPhone 7+ and iPhone SE (iOS 9.0 and above).

** Functions and features may vary depending on the region or service provider. 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.

Samsung Electronics  today unveiled a collaboration with Under Armour, the innovative and revolutionary sports apparel brand, to offer authentic fitness experience across a suite of Samsung wearable devices by combining Samsung’s industry-leading mobile technology with Under Armour’s connected fitness expertise. Whether users are tracking nutrition, daily workouts, running routes or simply seeking a digital personal trainer for added motivation, this best-in-class collaboration will keep users on top of their personal goals.

“This collaboration brings together the very best of Samsung wearable technology with the unmatched sports performance of the Under Armour brand,” said, Younghee Lee, Executive Vice President of Global Marketing and Wearable Business, Mobile Communications at Samsung Electronics. “Fitness enthusiasts will have a thrilling experience when it comes to the integration of practical design and intelligent applications for sports related activities.”

Mike Lee, Chief Digital Officer at Under Armour said, “We’re excited to work with one of the most recognized brands in the world to continue to bring value to our global digital community of more than 190 million users. Samsung is renowned for its innovative, stylish yet practical devices. This new collaboration will provide additional opportunities to further integrate personal nutrition and activity tracking technologies, allowing all athletes to meet their goals and perform their best.”

Under Armour will develop four of its globally renowned health and fitness apps for the Samsung Gear Fit2, Gear S2 and Gear S3, providing fitness enthusiasts with a seamless and convenient sports experience, as well as access to Under Amour’s digital community. The fitness apps will be available as part of the Under Armour Connected Fitness® suite including UA Record, MyFitnessPal®, MapMyRun® and Endomondo. Along with the integration, Samsung will offer unique functionalities to users of the Gear Fit2, Gear S2 and Gear S3.

Samsung Gear Fit2 customers will have access to the UA Record, MapMyRun®, and MyFitnessPal® apps starting January 4, 2017 and the Endomondo app will also be available for Gear Fit2 in January. Samsung Gear S2 and Gear S3 customers will also be able to download the suite of apps in early 2017 with complete features.*

For additional product information, please visit http://www.samsungmobilepress.com.

*Service availability and scope may vary by each region and market condition. 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.

About Under Armour, Inc.
Under Armour, the originator of performance footwear, apparel and equipment, revolutionized how athletes across the world dress. Designed to make all athletes better, the brand’s innovative products are sold worldwide to athletes at all levels. The Under Armour Connected Fitness® platform powers the world’s largest digital health and fitness community through a suite of applications: UA Record, MapMyFitness®, Endomondo and MyFitnessPal®. The Under Armour global headquarters is in Baltimore, Maryland. For further information, please visit the Company’s website at www.uabiz.com.

Under Armour has two classes of publicly traded common stock listed on the New York Stock Exchange: Class C stock trades under the ticker symbol “UA” and Class A stock trades under the ticker symbol “UAA”.  For more information about Under Armour’s stock, please visit the Company’s Investor Relations website at http://www.uabiz.com/investors.cfm.

Enhanced with Convenient Gear S3 Features

For a start, the Gear S2’s update provides users with more opportunities to personalize their smartwatch and add to its convenience.

For instance, Gear S2 users will now be able to further customize their device by downloading, via the Galaxy Apps store, the Gear S3’s preloaded watch faces. Other useful downloads include the Reminders app, which lets Gear S2 users add tasks and conveniently manage to-do lists, and the Alti-Barometer, which can assist in tracking outdoor activities and measuring air pressure.

The Gear S2’s update also enhances the function of its intuitive bezel, which allows users to accept or reject calls, and dismiss alarms, timers and alerts for scheduled events with a twist.* A clockwise turn will answer or acknowledge an alert, while a counterclockwise turn will reject a call or postpone an alarm.

Messages with a Personal Touch

The Gear S2’s Messages app has also offered users more ways to connect and express themselves.

The new Handwriting Mode features support for superimposed writing, allowing users to scrawl messages directly onto the device in Korean, English or Chinese, and without waiting for each individual letter to be converted into text. Users may also punctuate their messages with sketches, or choose an appropriate visual from the Gear S2’s emoji catalog, which has been expanded to feature 180 distinct emojis. For those who prefer a hands-free approach to messaging, the new voice-input option lets you send dictated texts and voice recordings.

Speaking of voice input, the Gear S2’s S Voice functionality has also received a tune-up. Now, once a user activates the function and begins to speak, the device will process the command in real time. This reduces unnecessary feedback screens and provides users with faster access to the information they need.

Advanced Activity Tracking with S Health

To encourage users to be physically active in smarter ways, S Health has been enhanced to automatically recognize more activities, including running, walking, cycling, elliptical- and rowing-machine sessions as well as “Other Workouts” such as high-intensity activities.

The device is also capable of automatically counting reps for gym-standard exercises such as squats, lunges, crunches and star jumps. In addition, should a user need to stop for any reason while running, walking or cycling, the new Auto Pause feature will automatically suspend fitness-tracking functions and resume as soon as the user is ready.

The new Pace Coaching function, meanwhile, helps users maximize their cardio by allowing them to set an optimal pace for a run or jog and providing a voice guide to coach them through achieving it. Moreover, with the new Stretching Guide incorporated into its Inactive Time Alert, if a user has been inactive for an extended period of time, the Gear S2 will suggest and walk them through a series of invigorating stretches, using its sensors to detect movements and tally reps.

Wider Widget Support

The Gear S2’s update also incorporates support for third-party widgets from popular apps like Uber, Yelp and USA Today, and streamlines others.

The handy Multi-Contact widget, for example, now allows users to select up to four contacts for quick access. The improved Weather widget now boasts a City Navigator function to allow users to monitor multiple cities’ conditions, and also provides the UV index, rainfall probability and more detailed insight into daily forecasts. Other notable additions include S Health’s fitness-focused Leaderboard and Challenge widgets.

Streamlined Safety Features

With the safety and security features’ new location-tracking support, when a user initiates an SOS alert by pressing the device’s home button three times, those designated to automatically receive it will then be able to pinpoint, via the location-sharing app Glympse, the exact location of the user’s Gear S2. This action may also be used to trigger the device’s Safety Partner function, which immediately connects users who have signed up for the service with representatives from partnering security firms.*

An Ever-Expanding Gaming Library

Lastly, just for fun, the Gear S2’s update offers users access to the Galaxy Apps store’s diverse ecosystem of entertaining and interactive games, including Stack and Monster Vampire. With simple, tap-and-twist controls and a store that currently features over 100 titles, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

*Available services may vary by country or region.

Samsung’s Gear S3 and Gear S2, with their sleek designs and wide-ranging features, merge fashion and functionality to keep you continuously connected and on-trend. Whether you rock the sporty chic look or prefer more refined attire, there’s a Gear S smartwatch to match your style.

Plug into this season’s most energetic pieces and decide which #OOTD (Outfit Of The Day) fits you.

Samsung C&T Corporation
All clothing images were provided by Samsung C&T Corporation. These items can be found on Samsung C&T Fashion Group’s online store: en.ssfshop.com/main.
For more information about Samsung C&T Corporation, please visit http://www.samsungcnt.com/eng/index.do.

The circular UX of the Samsung Gear S2 and S3 represents a new chapter in user experience, as it takes its start from the form of a conventional watch face.

The circular UX utilizes both the physical control of the bezel and touch screen capability to present an intuitive interface for the devices. The 24 detent rotation of the bezel allows the user to access the app or controls he or she needs without covering the screen. Truly a new experience for the user, as well as the designers who developed this unique innovation.

To achieve this new direction in UX design, the designers at Samsung Electronics had to literally think outside the box. Find out what challenges they had to overcome to create this new and unique UX.

Challenge #1: UX Optimized for a Circular Display

Breaking away from the conventional square-screen format was a major challenge. The four corners, where crucial controls are often placed, would simply not work in a circular environment. The entire design had to be reworked from scratch.

To do this, we had to think outside of the physical confines of the circular screen. To think beyond, if you will, by imagining how buttons, apps and controls would enter the corner-free display for a user’s interaction. We also utilized a sense of depth to differentiate between the content in the center and that in the periphery.

Without any corners, the result is a user interface that actively displays content for a more focused screen that is optimized for the wearable smart device experience.

Challenge #2: Continuous UX by Utilizing the Bezel

To optimize navigation on the circular displays, we made the bezels on the Gear S2 and S3 intuitive controls. They allow users to interact with their devices quickly and accurately without obstructing their view of the screen, and even without looking.

To further streamline the user experience, we performed numerous interface and motion design tests to identify the bezel’s most appropriate applications. Together with the touch screen interface, this physical control completes an entirely new UX.

For example, in Apps, it’s easy for users to find the applications they need simply by turning the bezel. Also, selecting a song in the music player or switching the watch face setting is as easy as a flick of the wrist.

Challenge #3: Precise Control for a Compact Display

In a successful marriage of form and interface, the Gear S2 and S3 applications have all undergone a new UX makeover.

Although the physical size of the device has decreased compared to smartphones, the bezel interface counters such limitations to effectively allow apps a wider range of control and functions in the new user environment.

Specifically, the Timer or Alarm apps can be set with more ease and accuracy than before, as they are optimized for a circular screen. S Health’s 24-hour logs are also easily accessible with the bezel controls, allowing users to view their daily fitness activities and records.

Perhaps changing a screen from a square to a circle may not seem so innovative.

However, the circular UX is not merely a form change but a totally new way of combining product and UX design for an optimized user experience in smart wearable devices. No easy task there.

As this new direction in innovation shows, the circular UX of the Gear S2 and S3 is testament to Samsung Electronics’ dedication to go forward with new chapters in wearable technology.

Samsung Electronics has been recognized by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) in its prestigious International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA) competition. Samsung has won a total of five accolades including one Gold, two Silver and two Bronze awards. Twenty-one other Samsung products encompassing various categories ranging from home appliances to printers were also selected as finalists.

The IDEA competition is one of the most influential in North America and puts design innovation at its core. Each year, Samsung Electronics is recognized for its forward-thinking, innovative design products and initiatives through IDEA.

This year, Samsung received a Gold award for its Serif TV, a device best known for its ability to blend into one’s living space thanks to its simple design, and understated colors and materials. Easy to display on a shelf or a table, Serif adjusts itself to a user’s lifestyle. And, with detachable legs, it can just as easily be placed on the floor in the center of a room.

The Galaxy S6 edge smartphone and the Gear 360 camera were also recognized, both receiving Silver awards. The world’s first dual-edge screen smartphone pushes the envelope in design as well as technological innovation, while the compact and easy-to-use Gear 360 captures 360-degree images of one’s surroundings for a truly immersive photographic experience.

The Gear S2 and portable SSD T3 external drive were presented with Bronze awards. The mixture of analog and digital on the Gear S2 has much to owe to its UX design, which makes it feel more like a wristwatch than a smart device. The SSD T3 external drive, meanwhile, boasts a stylish two-tone color combination and slim-line design about the size of a business card.

Besides the award-winning products, 21 additional products were selected as finalists, illustrating Samsung’s commitment to innovation and design.

These products include: the Family Hub Refrigerator with a full HD touchscreen that covers much of the right exterior door; the 360 CST Air Conditioner that delivers cool air evenly to all parts of the home; the 2016 Smart TV, which has an out-of-box experience (OOBE) UX that greets users in their own language; and the MX3 A3 printer that enables quick and easy control with its 7-inch LCD touch screen.

To continue refining and improving the user experience for Gear S2 smartwatch users, Samsung began to provide its third update from July 15.

This update is focusing on improvements of both ease of use and speed of access.

First, users now can download watchfaces and recommended apps directly from Gear S2. Direct downloads increase the speed and easy of use when users find and add content to their Gear S2, making the user experience significantly more convenient.

Another notable addition is the growing options for the Gear S2’s watchface, which is one of the most visible and defining parts of any smartwatch. Now people can use the My Photo app to set their own photos as the watchface, for customizing the look of the Gear S2 uniquely for their lives. In addition, users can choose a default watchface from one of several colorful rings, for a simple but eye-catching set of new looks.

With the update, S Health can do more to help users track their conditions, including tracking sleep data automatically when they wear the Gear S2 to bed. Users can also post their exercise results directly to Facebook from the Gear S2, making sharing their workout information easy.

The Contacts function, too, is now more convenient, as it is accessible both as an app and as a widget. User can easily make a call or send a message on the Gear S2.

For the voice recognition software, S Voice*, a useful timer has been added. Users can start, pause, resume and stop the timer, all just using S Voice. In addition, when a user asks to check messages while there are not any unread messages, S Voice automatically asks if the user wants to open the message app. And the word streaming function shows what the user is saying and updates it while he or she is talking.

Furthermore, a whole range of the Gear S2’s useful apps have been improved, to provide more information faster and more clearly. The Schedule app now adds a green dot below date with events scheduled, to make identifying appointments easier. The Weather app now includes a UV Index**, to help people keep safer from the most intense sunshine. And the World Clock features several updates, such as sunrise and sunset, time difference between other locations the local time, and a different look for the daytime versus the nighttime in the list view.

Finally, Samsung has made it easier to get support when needed. Now there is a direct Contact Us function in ‘Samsung Gear’ App, so people can get in touch with the customer center and get the help they need directly and easily.

Users can download the latest update through the Samsung Gear app when the Gear S2 and smartphone are synced.

* S Voice is supported in English, Chinese, Japanese and Korean.

** This may differ by region.

AT&T* and Samsung Electronics America are bringing customers the toughest Galaxy S device for the fourth summer in a row. The water- and shatter-resistant¹ Samsung Galaxy S7 active is available exclusively at AT&T. Beginning on Friday, June 10, you can purchase the Galaxy S7 active at www.att.com/galaxys7active or at AT&T stores in Sandy Gold, Titanium Gray, and Camo Green. Purchase the new Samsung Galaxy S7 active on AT&T Next® at $26.50 for 30 months or AT&T Next Every YearSM at $33.13 a month for 24 months when you have eligible service.²

The Samsung Galaxy S7 active gives you greater peace of mind when you’re dealing with life’s everyday fumbles. It has a 5.1 inch Super AMOLED display that lets you watch vivid, clear video. The phone’s 4,000mAh battery is the largest of any Galaxy S device, providing up to 32 hours of talk time,³ and can fully charge in less than two hours.⁴ Check out this video to see the Galaxy S7 active in action.

The Samsung Galaxy S7 active has all the premium features of the Galaxy S7 series including a 12 megapixel rear facing camera with Dual Pixel technology, fingerprint sensor⁵, and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 820 processor. Additionally, the Galaxy S7 active has 32GB of internal storage with a microSD slot for up to 200GB of additional storage (sold separately).⁶

The Galaxy S7 active includes KNOX, Samsung’s defense-grade mobile security platform, implemented at the chip level so your device is highly secure from the moment it boots up.

For a limited time, you can also enjoy this fashionable, tough smartphone along with a variety of offers that can be mixed and matched, including:

• Get the Samsung Gear S2, the first smartwatch with NumberSync⁷, for free⁸ with a new two year wireless agreement and purchase of a Galaxy S7 active on AT&T Next, and qualified wireless service on both devices. With NumberSync you can send and receive texts, as well as make and receive calls, from your Gear S2 using the same mobile number as your Galaxy S7 active.
• Buy two Galaxy S7 active smartphones on AT&T Next and get up to $695 in bill credits over 30 months.⁹
• Get the Samsung Galaxy Tab E for $0.99 on a 2-year agreement when you buy the Galaxy S7 active. Take advantage of the offer for the latest Samsung tablet when you buy the Galaxy S7 active on AT&T NextSM and activate wireless service on both devices.¹⁰
• Business customers who activate or upgrade 20 or more lines on any qualified Samsung device can receive 12 months credit for MobileIron Cloud® and a one-time $1,000 Professional Service Credit (available to new and qualified MobileIron customers).

“The Samsung Galaxy S7 active is one of the best Galaxy devices ever, and it can only be found at AT&T,” said Jeff Bradley, Senior Vice President, Device Marketing and Network Services, AT&T. “We’ve worked with Samsung to design our most stylish active smartphone of the past four years, and it can still handle your daily grind whether you’re a multi-tasking mom, an outdoorsman at the lake, or a contractor on a jobsite. Throw in the fact that this phone comes with a variety of awesome deals, and you can get a complete ecosystem of premium devices at a great value.”

“The Galaxy S7 active represents Samsung’s ongoing commitment to listening to customers and delivering on meaningful innovation that fits their needs,” said Tim Baxter, President, Samsung Electronics America. “We are excited to be working with AT&T to introduce a device that sets a high bar on what it means to combine elegance with toughness, and gives customers a durable smartphone built for their active lifestyle.”

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

1 Shatter resistant for drops from 5 feet or less on a flat surface. IP68 water resistant in up to 5 feet of water for up to 30 minutes. Rinse residue, dry device when wet. Drops may cause scratches or other damage to device screen or body.

2 Req’s well-qualified credit, 0% APR installment agreement, and eligible service.  Down payment available and may be required. Tax due at sale. If wireless svc is cancelled, device balance due. Fees, other charges & restr’s apply. Visit att.com/next for details.

3 Average expected performance based on typical use.  Actual battery life depends on factors such as network, features selected, frequency of calls, and voice, data and other application-usage patterns. Results may vary.

4 Testing under laboratory conditions. Results may vary. Battery power consumption depends on factors such as network configuration, signal strength, operating temperature, features selected, vibrate mode, backlight settings, browser use, frequency of calls and voice, data and other applications usage patterns.  Adaptive fast charging requires an AFC compatible charger to work (sold separately).

5 Fingerprint unlocking may not be permitted for access to corporate Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync servers.  Check with your company IT administrator.

6 Memory card sold separately.

7 NumberSync requires compatible device on eligible wireless plan and smartphone on an AT&T postpaid wireless account set up for HD Voice. Visit att.com/hdvoice for information.

8 Limited Time Offer (ends 07/21/2016 in Puerto Rico). May buy any Samsung Galaxy smartphone to qualify. AT&T Next:  If svc cancelled, remaining installment agmt balance is due. Down payment may be req’d. Tax due at sale. See att.com/next for details. Watch:  Req’s compatible smartphone & app. Add’l terms & restr’s apply. Early Termination Fee (att.com/equipmentETF) up to $150 on Watch. May not be combinable w/ other offers.  Add’l terms and restr’s apply. See store for details.

9 Ends 6/30/16. Req’s qual. svc on both (min $70/mo.). Credits start in 3 bills. One req’s 30-mo. 0% APR AT&T Next agmt. Req’s well-qual. credit & a new line. If svc canceled on 1, that device balance (up to $795) is due.  Activ./upgrade ($20/line), other fees, charges & restrs apply. See store for details.

10 Limited time offer (ends 6/30/16 in Puerto Rico). Select locations. Eligible wireless service is required on both devices and is additional. Activ. & early termination fees, & other charges & restr’s apply. See store for details.

About AT&T

AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) helps millions around the globe connect with leading entertainment, mobile, high speed Internet and voice services. We’re the world’s largest provider of pay TV. We have TV customers in the U.S. and 11 Latin American countries. We offer the best global coverage of any U.S. wireless provider.* And we help businesses worldwide serve their customers better with our mobility and highly secure cloud solutions.Additional information about AT&T products and services is available at http://about.att.com. Follow our news on Twitter at @ATT, on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/att and YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/att.© 2016 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the Globe logo and other marks are trademarks and service marks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

*Global coverage claim based on offering discounted voice and data roaming; LTE roaming; voice roaming; and world-capable smartphone and tablets in more countries than any other U.S. based carrier. International service required. Coverage not available in all areas. Coverage may vary per country and be limited/restricted in some countries.

The LINE FRIENDS collaboration accessories — covers for the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge, a wireless charger and an external battery pack — have already launched in Korea, with more than 10 other countries around Asia and the Middle East soon to follow.

To celebrate the launch, Samsung and LINE FRIENDS are providing a chance for fans to meet the LINE FRIENDS characters in the real world. Fans can get hands-on with these LINE FRIENDS accessories and enjoy the character story with the Gear VR experience at the Samsung Experience Studio in Taiwan and at the LINE FRIENDS Garosu-gil Store in Seoul.

The Samsung x LINE FRIENDS collaboration features a new story about the sun of the LINE FRIENDS planet dimming and needing recharging. It turns out their sun is actually a Galaxy S7, but its battery is running low, so Brown and Cony need to fly a wireless charging stand to the Galaxy S7 sun and recharge it.

Furthermore, Samsung introduced LINE FRIENDS versions of the Gear S2 watch face, with LINE FRIENDS characters. They can be downloaded at the Galaxy Apps.

Yoojin Hong, Vice President of the User Experience Design Team, Mobile Communications Business, explains why and how Samsung made these updates possible.

Q. In such a dynamically changing environment, how is Samsung changing its approach to user experience?

Today, there are two aspects that directly impact the way we approach user experience design: first is the evolution of software, and second is the user experience as part of the software creation process.

In terms of software evolution, unlike feature phones, most devices now include modern software such as Android or tizen that can be updated and evolve. This means the product’s user experience constantly changes as software updates are released that evolve the product into something better. While beta testing for some service or application is generally the fastest way to get a product on the market earlier, user experience cannot be beta. This is the challenge for most Samsung user experience designers. It must be complete and left to evolve on existing and future hardware for at least two to three years.

Second is the need to streamline the software creation process. At Samsung we realized the shortcomings of the traditional software design process where design and testing were done in fairly sequential and separated steps. Now, to meet users’ dynamic needs, we have adopted an agile development mentality to ensure we release better products faster. For instance, last year we launched a beta program to beta test the latest updates for the Android Marshmallow. Through this process, we listened directly to the feedback of our users and adapted their feedback to the official release version.

The amazing thing about Samsung is we are not afraid to change, and can move forward at the speed of technology once the strategy is set.

Q. What do you think most defines Samsung’s approach to user experience? What makes it unique?

Samsung is unique in that we not only design and develop our products and services, but we have the expertise and capability to manufacture these things in-house. The speed at which we develop hardware and software, as well as our range of products, is unique. Ultimately it is the optimization and evolution of hardware, software and user experience design that makes us unique from everyone else.

Q. What was the key insight that allowed Samsung to come up with the Gear S2’s user experience?

We wanted to make a watch – an everyday casual watch – rather than a smart device. The watch just happened to be smart. This was a very important principle in the design of the UX, and every design decision at Samsung.

For example: We debated a lot whether it should have touch interaction. Some argued that touch is the most intuitive and would carry on the smartphone experience. But we reminded ourselves that we are not making a mini-smartphone for the wrist. It’s a watch. Therefore it was a natural decision to use a familiar rotating bezel for the most common tasks: navigating and scrolling.

Q. Why did you select a circular design for the Gear S2?

Most real watches are circular in shape. It allows for better watch designs and forces you to focus on one thing at a time. By the very nature of the shape, a circle lets you focus on one thing while a rectangle lets you read from top to bottom or from left to right. It’s the perfect shape for users to ‘glance’ at the information quickly, not to ‘read it thoroughly’.

However, we found that there is a lot less real estate with a circle display. We were all used to a rectangular display. But we quickly found the value of center-aligned information when quickly glancing at information.

Q. How did you collaborate with other teams to design the UX of the Gear S2?

We all worked closely together as a team – hardware, software, industrial design, interaction design, visual design, motion design, prototyping, and so on – to ensure a seamless user experience.

For instance, the rotating bezel’s tension and friction were tuned with a scene transition implementation. We didn’t want the navigation to be overly difficult or simple. We also wanted the screen to start moving as the Gear S2 was rotated, so the rotation speed and starting point were carefully designed.

We included haptic vibration in the design and tuned it with the software and hardware as well. For instance, we designed a subtle vibration for when the Gear S2 hits the scrolling end. It had to be perfect with the rotating bezel, on-screen feedback and vibration all together.

We made a record number of prototypes when developing the Gear S2. Due to the new methods of interaction, we had to see and use the prototypes for ourselves. For instance, the watchface rotation. We weren’t sure whether the screen should transition to the right or left when rotating the bezel.  We made about 20 variations—just to check this one function—with different angles, speeds and directions. We had to actually see these things in action before making the decision. Nothing could work separately. They all needed to harmonize perfectly to deliver a smooth and natural experience.

Q. How do you see wearables affecting people’s lifestyles in the near-future?

Wearables are taking on the roles of smartphones and computers. They are allowing technology to be more invisible and natural, yet still accessible. I think the most immediate opportunity for wearables is that they free users from being active while still keeping them connected – for example, when exercising. And since they are worn, they have the opportunity to help enhance our personal wellbeing, health and fitness. In the longer run, wearables will become a main interaction point when everyday objects are connected seamlessly. We see this opportunity already with the ability to call Uber from the Gear S2 without pulling out the phone on the road.

Available in both dark gray and silver, the lightweight stainless steel adapters are strong and durable, fitting seamlessly onto the Gear S2, giving the device a wider range of looks, including leather, metal and ceramic.

Currently the Gear S2 Band Adapter is on sale in Germany, Singapore and South Africa, but is soon expanding to more countries around the world.

(Remove the original band of Gear S2)

(Attach the Gear S2 Band Adapter)

(Gear S2 Band Adapter is available in dark gray and silver)

(With the Gear S2 Band Adapter, Gear S2 users can attach standard 20mm watch straps, including the Gear S2 classic strap)

Samsung’s Gear S2 and Gear S2 classic smartwatches have gained popularity for their combination of cutting-edge functionality, rotating bezel interface and wide range of customizable looks. Since the launch last October, Samsung and its partners have provided a variety of fashionable straps, with hundreds of different watch faces that users can choose from.

To learn more about how people can customize their Gear S2 devices—from the watch face to the strap to the apps—check out this article.

Galaxy Apps is a store that features entertainment, gaming and productivity-boosting applications for the smart devices of Samsung Electronics. Following the integration, it will also boast a curated section of apps designed exclusively for Samsung’s Gear products.

As such, Gear users can browse customized watch faces, health trackers and information streams directly from Galaxy Apps via the Gear tab.

In addition to providing an improved search function, the integration allows for maximized convenience. No longer will users have to download from two separate platforms—Galaxy Apps has all their needs covered.

Now, both smartphone and Gear versions can be installed or deleted using the Phone App Also button. Managing and updating apps on both devices is also considerably easier thanks to the My Apps menu.

Users contemplating a Gear device purchase can also look at gear applications previews via Galaxy Apps.

To celebrate the new integration, Galaxy Apps is offering a range of complimentary watch faces to Gear S2 users designed by popular watch face maker Mr. Time (Apposter Inc.). These designs allow consumers to change their smart watches into fashion items, luxurious tourbillons or even gaming devices with just a few simple taps.

Throughout the evolution of Samsung’s Galaxy line-up, Galaxy Apps has consistently added value to the smartphone experience. And now, with the integration of Gear Apps, Samsung aims to provide a better, more seamless experience for both smart device and wearable device users.

*Availability of the new Galaxy Apps may vary by operator and region.

The DIY (Do-It-Yourself) revolution is no longer limited to the world of arts and crafts. From cars to clothes and even smart device user interfaces, the DIY method can be applied to just about anything you care to mention. It is often a perfect means of adding a touch of your own personality to something.

In response to this trend, Samsung has developed the Gear Watch Designer—a program that allows you to make your own unique watch face. It is easy to use and requires neither expert knowledge nor coding skills.

Five of the Gear Watch Designer’s key developers explained more about what makes the program “tick.”

The Gear Watch Designer is home to designer-friendly tools and functions, many of which resemble those used in Photoshop and Flash programs.

DIY Watch Faces Made Easy with the Gear Watch Designer

Previously, non-developer Gear S2 users were not able to personalize watch faces based on their unique preferences, much less share their designs with others.

But the introduction of the Gear Watch designer has changed that.

“In the beginning, we intended to create the Gear Watch Designer as a utility program to help developers. But as we progressed, the general consensus was that it would be better to make a designer-oriented program,” said Young Jae Min, Senior Designer of the UX team.

As a result, the team developed the Gear Watch Designer to allow designers to better express themselves, even if they lacked development expertise.

The Gear S2 maximizes customization, so that users can directly configure its hardware or software, and edit functions according to their tastes. And the Gear Watch Designer only enhances these customization features yet further.

With the program, you can easily add and arrange calendar, heart rate or daily fitness information directly to the watch face, for example.

You can also fully express yourself by customizing the index, hour hand, minute hand and second hand in the colors and styles just as you desire, all the while checking to ensure the designs function properly as you edit them.

It has only been a short few months since the Gear Watch Designer was launched as a beta version, in December last year on the Samsung Developers website. However, a number of users have already since shared their own unique watch face creations with the Gear Watch Designer’s online community.

“In the beginning, we intended to make the program simple. However, over the course of its development, it has become more complex as the team has diversified its ideas,” said Moo Chang Kim, Senior Engineer of the Tizen R&D Team.

This rather unique development process, in which the team constantly and collectively brainstorms and shares ideas, has allowed the Gear Watch Designer to advance consistently and in a multitude of ways.

“It has been interesting to gradually expand this project by incorporating our ideas,” explained Hyung Jo Yoon, Senior Engineer of the Tizen R&D Team. “It was a refreshing and novel experience to be able to share ideas between multiple departments in pursuit of a single goal.”

Sample watch faces made with the Gear Watch Designer.

Boundless Creative Potential

While anyone can use the Gear Watch Designer to make their own watch face, graphic designers in particular can let their creativity run wild by using their own images as part of the program. As such, the team focused on making the Gear Watch Designer as user-friendly as possible so that designers could use it with great ease.

However, as the developers were not all designers themselves, they explain that they found it difficult to find flaws and limitations in the program before they actually launched the beta version.

“We actively encouraged designers to start use the program when it reached the 60-70 percent completion mark,” explained Sang Min Jung, Senior Engineer of the Tizen R&D Team. “We then proceeded to hold contests internally, through which we were able to improve the tool based on employee feedback.”

Thanks to feedback and regular inter-departmental brainstorming sessions, the Gear Watch Designer soon developed into a more complete experience.

As a result, the program now boasts a number of familiar tools specifically aimed at designers, such as animation functions and graphic interfaces. Even more useful functions will be added in the future in the form of updates.

Both experienced graphic designers and keen amateurs can use the Gear Watch Designer with ease, a fact that has led to more and more people sharing their watch face designs online. In fact, some of the most popular of the paid watch faces available were created using the Gear Watch Designer.

“The Gear Watch Designer has allowed for some significant developments, allowing designers to directly create an end product without the help of developers,” said Sang Hyun Park, Principal Designer of the UX design. “As a UX designer, it’s rewarding to design for the product itself. It’s also very meaningful to be able to create tools that encourage other designers in different fields to create their own designs.”

On March 11, Samsung hosted a workshop at the California College of Arts, UCLA, focusing on watch face design using the Gear Watch Designer. Around 30 design students participated in the event, creating their own unique watch faces using the program.

Design students at the California College of Arts, UCLA participate in a Gear Watch Designer workshop.

The team will also showcase the program’s various functions at the Samsung Developer Conference (SDC), to be held from April 26 to 28 in San Francisco, California.

The Gear Watch Designer team (from left to right): Senior Designer Young Jae Min, Principle Designer Sang Hyun Park, Senior Engineers Moo Chang Kim and Hyung Jo Yoon and Engineer Sang Min Jung.

“At Samsung, we listen to consumers and engineer products that deliver on those needs. From the rotating bezel to the range of apps, we give consumers the ability to personalize their devices and use them in ways that work best for their lifestyle,” said Younghee Lee, Executive Vice President of Global Marketing, Mobile Communications Business at Samsung Electronics.

Popular Gear S2 applications include:

• Unique, Stylish Watch Faces: From artists Jean-Michael, Jeremyville to Burton Morris, new designs announced this year from artists Jean-Michael, Jeremyville and Burton Morris will give users even more options to customize the Gear S2 to fit their style. These new watch faces will join already popular choices like the Snoopy design, available in multiple styles, and the Art Collaborated Watch Face series inspired by the American artist and social activist Keith Haring.

• On-the-Go Convenience: Whether on the ground or in the air, consumers can experience a convenient way to travel, without having to worry about the logistics of transportation. With the Uber app, users can schedule a ride from their location, expect reliable pick-up and pay without reaching for their wallet. With Iberia and KLM, travelers can easily check the flight information, check-in, and access the boarding for a quick scan-and-go.

• Fitness: Dedicated applications on Gear S2 make it easy for users to maintain a healthy lifestyle. With its built-in sensors and voice guide, the S-Health feature helps users achieve health and fitness targets. And for golf fans – from beginner to pro – Golf Navi, free on Gear S2, manages everything from measuring the distance to the hole and keeping score; the app can even locate the nearest golf course.

• Get in the Game: For a fun break any time of day, Bubble Bash is a popular game that takes advantage of the rotating bezel on the Gear S2 letting users burst bubbles and take a gaming break no matter their location.

Samsung Gear S2 and applications reflect Samsung’s commitment to collaborate with developers and partners to broaden the wearable ecosystem to give users more personal and smart wearable experiences.

Samsung Electronics announced their latest fashion collaboration with the renowned and glamorous jewelry and watchmaker, de GRISOGONO. The two iconic brands have come together to co-create the Samsung Gear S2 by de GRISOGONO – a limited-edition jewelry watch designed and sculpted in gold and precious jewels, boasting Samsung’s innovative Gear S2 technology.

The partnership between de GRISOGONO and Samsung goes far beyond mere co-branding and extends into authentic co-creation and design. Both brands combined their vision and unique aesthetic to co-create a limited-edition smartwatch that brings fashion and function together, while allowing you to express your personal style.

“The combination of style and substance is inherent in every Samsung device,” said Younghee Lee, Executive Vice President of Global Marketing, Mobile Communications Business at Samsung Electronics. “This dynamic partnership builds on this heritage by merging Samsung’s barrier breaking technology with de GRISOGONO’s signature style to create a smartwatch as unique as the wearer.”

“de GRISOGONO has always been associated with daring products and a visionary approach to High Jewellery and watches,” said Fawaz Gruosi Founder and Creative Director, de GRISOGONO. “Designing a connected watch with Samsung has been an incredible experience for both brands. Samsung brought to the table the best and most intuitive technology, while de Grisogono brought its glamorous design and craftsmanship expertise. The resulting Samsung Gear S2 by de Grisogono clearly embodies all of our boldness in watch design and our jewellery savoir-faire, while maintaining all of Samsung’s technological capabilities and intuitive usage. This watch will take an honourable place alongside de GRISOGONO’s Meccanico, Otturatore and Occhio, as another of our brand’s revolutionary approaches to displaying time.”

The Samsung Gear S2 by de GRISOGONO channels inspiration from traditional jewelry and watchmaking, evoking the distinctive de GRISOGONO design heritage. The smartwatch is transformed into smart fashion with rose gold, over 100 black and white diamonds and a bracelet studded with de GRISOGONO’s signature galuchat. The diamond-set gold bezel turns freely around the dial, allowing consumers to access the Gear S2’s library of applications and features, including notifications, activity logs.

Dedicated to perfection, innovation and imagination, de GRISOGONO has spent the last 20 years creating a characteristic and distinguished style expressed through collections that have made a lasting impression on the watch and jewelry industry. The designer’s signature look blends glamour and artistry, and brings his bold vision to life. Both Samsung and de GRISOGONO share a barrier-breaking vision and cherish craftsmanship along with the beauty of design, thereby fueling the co-creation of the Samsung Gear S2 by de GRISOGONO and a partnership that further unites fashion and technology.

The Samsung Gear S2 by de GRISOGONO will be debuted at Baselworld 2016. This limited-edition smartwatch will be available for purchase starting this summer through both Samsung and de GRISOGONO’s retail channels.

For more product information, please visit http://www.samsungmobilepress.com.

Samsung Gear S2 by de GRISOGONO:

* 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.

* Battery performance may vary depending on network conditions and configuration, and device usage.

About de GRISOGONO

Jeweller since 1993

Watchmaker since 2000

de GRISOGONO has created a characteristic and immediately recognisable style expressed through watch and jewellery collections. Each creation is unique, while bearing within it the distinctive signatures that reflect the spirit of the Maison. In the course of time, its collections have become icons and sources of inspiration, representing an art that at first glance appears astonishing simple, yet which takes great skill to master.

Samsung Electronics announced awards for Galaxy S6 edge and Gear S2 from GSMA at the annual Global Mobile Awards at 2016 Mobile World Congress. The leader in mobile innovation, Samsung continues to push the boundaries of hardware, software and services, creating devices that help consumers get more out of life. The company is redefining what is possible, beyond the limits of today’s technology, by introducing a constellation of seamless mobile experiences.

In testament to Samsung’s consistent pursuit of excellence in design and function, Gear S2 was named “Best Connected Consumer Electronic Device” in the Best Mobile Handsets & Devices category. This award recognized Gear S2 for its versatile circular design and intuitive functionality for a more convenient and enjoyable experience.

Samsung Galaxy S6 edge was also awarded “Best Smartphone 2015”, in acknowledgement of its functional design and usability for seamless everyday use.

“We are honored to be recognized for our industry-leading technology,” said DJ Koh, President of Mobile Communications at Samsung Electronics. “At Samsung we remain committed to providing mobile devices that are inspired by consumers and always underpinned by a focus on progress and innovation.”

“Samsung is recognized for breaking barriers, pushing boundaries and shaping the future through the convergence of great technology, content and services. Our ambition in 2016 is to continue paving the way for meaningful innovation and raising the bar when it comes to delivering pioneering products to the MENA region,” said Mr. Choong Ro Lee, President of Samsung Middle East and North Africa.

Mr. Choong Ro Lee, President of Samsung Middle East and North Africa, speaks about the company’s vision at Samsung MENA Forum 2016.

Samsung is delivering innovation that matters to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region by bringing likeminded players in terms of the developer community, major companies, and regional content providers together to bring a smarter, more connected future to the Middle East.

As Samsung continues to deliver meaningful innovation to its customers in the region, the company is also committed to using its technological innovation to contribute to the benefit of society at large.

Speaking of his company’s view on Corporate Social Responsibility, Mr. Lee said, “We believe it’s our responsibility to contribute to the social wellbeing of the MENA community. We have been using our technologies to help enhance the lives of others across the region for almost a decade.”

In line with its growing role in the region, Samsung MENA was the recipient of five prestigious Cannes Lions Awards for community inspired initiatives – Samsung Tunisia’s Back up Memory mobile app campaign for Alzheimer’s patients, as well as Samsung Turkey’s Hearing Hands call center project. Moreover, Samsung has joined hands with NGOs, Ministries of Education and Universities to help provide an improved learning experience through its Smart Schools and Tech Vocational Training Centre initiatives.

Shaping the Future of Home Entertainment

Samsung is setting the standards for a superior viewing experience by bringing the next generation of consumer inspired innovation to its 2016 home entertainment lineup.

Samsung unveiled its spectacular new line-up of SUHD TVs that feature unparalleled picture quality with Quantum dot display, the world’s first bezel-less curved design which is beautiful from every angle and the smartest user experience that makes it easy for consumers to access all their entertainment content in one place.

Built on the Tizen operating system (OS), Samsung’s 2016 Smart TVs make it easier for consumers to discover and access all their favorite content and services, from TV and movies to games and program information, all in one place.

Mustafa Sadick, Senior Manager of Samsung Middle East and North Africa, introduces about Samsung’s 2016 TV business.

The new Samsung Smart TV eliminates the need to juggle multiple remote controls. The Samsung Smart TV will automatically recognize the type of, game console, OTT box or home theater system that is connected to the TV. This allows users to control such devices with the Smart Control remote — with no setup required.

Samsung is bringing the #1 Premium VOD Player in the MENA region, with its vast array of entertainment content to its Smart TV customers through our partnership with MBC SHAHID PLUS. This collaboration offers viewers a choice of on-demand exclusive Arabic series, shows and the latest Arabic movies.

Samsung also unveiled the latest additions to its audio product lineup, including the new soundbar lineup with the wireless rear speaker kit  that creates a “True” surround sound system without any wire, and Samsung’s Wireless Audio 360 Speakers that deliver the ‘sweet spot’ everywhere in the home with proprietary ‘Ring Radiator’ technology for a rich and vibrant audio experience.

Groundbreaking Technologies for Smarter Living in the Home

Samsung has introduced first-of-its-kind technologies to bring real innovation to the home. Transforming the home category from nice to have, to can’t live without, Samsung Digital Appliances pave the way for a smarter living with simple, thoughtful innovations that offer improved flexibility, convenience and functionality.

The pioneering Samsung RT7000 refrigerator with Twin Cooling Plus technology is the new and only Top Mounted Fridge with two independent cooling systems for each the fridge and freezer, which offers consumers flexibility with cooling and storage depending on their needs. With five (5) conversion modes, it is adaptable and saves energy depending on the user requirements.

Georges Barakat, Senior Manager of Samsung Middle East and North Africa, explains about the new Samsung Add Wash front-load washer.

Samsung technologies are also redefining freshness when it comes to frozen food. The groundbreaking Precise Chef Cooling technology has now been applied to the freezer of the new T9000 4-Door Flex Refrigerator so consumers can experience ‘first day fresh’ food every day, even with frozen produce.

The new range of Samsung washing machines now come with the much needed practical solutions for an easier laundry experience. The new Samsung Add Wash front-load washer enables consumers to add items or additional fabric softener during wash cycle using the additional Add Door located on the upper part of the main washer door.

Breaking Barriers for Progress in Mobility

At the MENA forum, Samsung stressed the importance of expanding the Samsung ecosystem of connected devices and reiterated its commitment to developing products and services that can support users’ different lifestyle needs and work seamlessly together to make their lives easier.

Breaking new ground in productivity and innovation, Samsung announced a brand new mobile product category with the introduction of its Galaxy TabPro S, which integrates the most popular features of laptops and tablets. In less than a year, Samsung has also taken its virtual reality platform from concept to widespread adoption by expanding the compatibility of the Gear VR to a wide range of Samsung devices making virtual reality accessible to millions.

Maintaining the heritage of functional design through its wearables and mobile products, Samsung introduced the Gear S2 Classic with two new unique color variants—Rose Gold and Platinum, reflecting its commitment to bringing more choice with new material varieties to its consumers. Samsung also unveiled the Samsung Galaxy A (2016), a stylish mobile device that combines a large screen and a narrow 2.7 mm bezel for a superior viewing experience, perfect for customers who are not only practical, but want to express their personal style.

Committed to expanding its partner ecosystem to enhance regional consumers’ viewing experiences, Samsung also revealed that its customers will receive limited subscriptions to premium regional content with every purchase of the Samsung Galaxy View. The 18.4” Full HD screen offers an unprecedented mobile entertainment experience, further enhanced by a one year free subscription to beIN sports, as well as three month free trials to Shahid Plus, Telly, Starz Play and icflix.

During the keynote address, Samsung also presented its vision for the Internet of Things, and how its strategies translate into products, platforms and forging novel connections across a variety of industries.

Samsung introduced innovative components, such as the bio-processor, an all-in-one chip which can process several different biometric signals specifically designed for health orientated wearable devices.

The Samsung Latin America Forum is an annual event that provides exciting opportunities to experience the latest innovations in the industry, exchange information, as well as meet the leaders who are the driving force behind Samsung Electronics’ progress in 19 countries – from Mexico in Central America all the South to Chile and Argentina.

At the event, the company reinforced its focus on smart and connected lifestyles, while also revealing a premium set of new products that are coming to the region this year, which includes the bezel-less curved SUHD TVs with Quantum dot display; the flexible – next generation of smart kitchen appliances with a range of refrigerators with Twin Cooling technology; besides the cleverly designed and industry-first front load washing machine using AddWash, among other unique products and services.

“We are confident that our exciting range of premium connected products and services will be very well received in the Latin American market, where consumers trust and recognize the superior value of the Samsung brand”, affirms Pedro Kim, president & CEO for Samsung in the region. He added, “Samsung will continue to enhance and revolutionise the everyday lives of its consumers by listening closely and anticipating their needs, and delivering state-of-the-art products and services that fulfil and exceed expectations.”

Samsung established the Latin American Research & Development Centres, Lifestyle Research Labs, and Product Innovation teams to operate as in-house incubators, to learn more about behavioural patterns in Latin America and tune-in to their needs, and developing technologies and innovation that are driven and inspired the market.

Setting a New Standard for Home Entertainment

Samsung unveiled its spectacular new line of SUHD TVs, which offers unparalleled picture quality with Quantum dot display and HDR technologies, together with state-of-the-art design – the world’s first bezel-less curved TV, which is beautiful from every angle; and the smartest user experience that makes it easy for consumers to access all their entertainment content in one place.

Samsung’s 2016 SUHD TVs feature the world’s only cadmium-free, 10-bit Quantum dot display, offering the most true-to-life picture quality with stunning brightness, exceptional contrast and the most lifelike colours ever offered by Samsung. The future of display technology, Quantum dot display converts light into nearly any colour in the visible spectrum without distortion or compromising the brightness level, delivering the optimum viewing experience for consumers, regardless of the lighting environment.

This year, all of the Samsung SUHD TVs will feature the ability to provide a premium high dynamic range (HDR) experience, with 1,000 nit HDR minimum for a higher level of contrast between light and dark images. New Ultra Black technology also significantly reduces light reflection, further enhancing picture quality with minimal glare.

Built on the Tizen operating system (OS), Samsung’s 2016 Smart TVs make it easier for consumers to discover and access all their favourite content and services, from TV shows and movies, to games and programme information, all in one place. The new Samsung Smart TV eliminates the need to juggle multiple remote controls. The Samsung Smart TV will automatically recognise the type of game console, OTT box or home theatre system that is connected to the TV. This allows users to control such external devices with the Smart Control remote — with no setup required.

Samsung also unveiled the latest additions to its audio product lineup, including the new soundbar lineup with the wireless rear speaker kit  that creates a “True” surround sound system without any wire, and Samsung’s Wireless Audio 360 Speakers that deliver the ‘sweet spot’ everywhere in the home with proprietary ‘Ring Radiator’ technology for a rich and vibrant audio experience.

New Generation of Digital Appliances Transforms the Home and Makes Life More Pleasant

The revolutionary Samsung Smart Convertible 5-in-1 Refrigerator is powered by Twin Cooling technology that enables consumers to be flexible with cooling storage, depending on their needs. First in the refrigerator category, the fridge and freezer compartment has its own cooling system allowing the refrigerator to be flexible depending on the necessity, offering five different modes: Daily, Economy, Vacation, Party and MiniBar. The five (5) conversion modes deliver the required flexibility, while also saving energy according to the chosen setting.

Many consumers have dreamed of owning a spacious refrigerator that keeps food fresher, so their weekly grocery shop lasts longer. But it is a common disappointment to reach into the refrigerator to find that the fruits or vegetables have lost their natural moisture, even when kept in the vegetable drawer. That is the reason why Samsung’s teams have developed the innovative Twin Cooling Plus technology, which with a truly independent cooling system, prevents unpleasant smells from food moving between the fridge and freezer, ensuring the original flavour of ingredients stored in the freezer is perfectly preserved and odourless.

The air does not move between the compartments, and the freezer stays completely frost-free, prolonging the shelf life and the flavour of its contents. It also prevents the build-up of ice, removing the need to defrost the freezer.

Moving from the kitchen to the laundry area, Samsung’s new washing machines come with the much needed, practical solutions for easier and more efficient daily experiences. The Samsung Add Wash front-load washer allows consumers to add items – such as an overlooked sock or t-shirt – or either, add fabric softener, during wash cycle, through its world’s first additional “Add Door” located on the upper part of the main door.

It also comes with an array of smart functions, which work with both Android and iOS smartphones. That not only makes it easy to monitor the progress of the laundry program, but also offers the option to alert users on their smartphone just before the start of a new washing cycle, for example if they want to add a few delicate or hand-wash items towards the end of the wash cycle. An embodiment of Samsung’s innovation in delivering time savings and washing performance, the AddWash Washing Machine comes with a SuperSpeed feature that makes it possible to complete a normal wash in less than an hour without compromising washing performance.

In terms of top loaders, the 9kg & 11kg ActivWash+ with built-in sink and dedicated Water Jet for convenient pre-treatment of laundry, incorporates a magic dispenser that lets you wash with less worry about residual detergent. It is specially designed to create a powerful water vortex that dissolves both liquid and powder detergent and spreads it evenly before you start washing.

Breaking Barriers in Mobile Productivity and Wearable Technology

In the 2016 Forum, Samsung also showcased the news of its wearables for Latin America. The brand announced the increase in its portfolio of products and services that work seamlessly together, also breaking new grounds and introducing new categories. This is the case of Gear VR – Virtual reality goggles with high definition that allow people 2D and 3D experiences. Beyond creating immersive situations in a very comfortable way, it also counts with a large amount of contents.

On the other side, Gear S2 classic 18k rose gold and platinum will also come to Latin America, offering a more personal and customizable experience. Therefore, Samsung is expanding its line of watch straps and watch face options. Samsung has partnered with exclusive designers, such as Alessandro Mendini, on premium watch straps for the Gear S2, and has introduced fun and creative watch faces including Peanuts characters and artworks.

Mobile Payment Service in Devices

On top of all the high quality smart devices already available in Latin America, Samsung is also developing new services to guarantee, full convenience and connectivity, proving its commitment with meaningful technology.

Samsung Pay is about to be launched in Brazil, in the coming months. With the widest acceptance of any mobile payment service, Samsung Pay is also very safe and simple, bringing us closer to a world without wallets. When it is time to pay, just launch Samsung Pay, scan your fingerprint and hold your Samsung device close to credit card reader in the payment machine. Done! In short seconds, the operation is concluded.

Even fast, it does not lack anything in terms of security. The system also has security layers composed of KNOX that constantly monitors any malicious activity. Each transaction uses a digital token to replace the actual card number. The mobile authorizes payment only with the consent (authentication through fingerprint) of the user.

Samsung Pay works with most existing card terminals in Latin America. That means this is the first and only payment solution that will make a transaction in almost any place where you can tap a credit or debit card (Samsung Pay is compatible to supports both NFC and MST systems)

Corporate Citizenship at the Heart of Business Strategy

Pedro Kim, president and CEO of Samsung Electronics Latin America, speaks about company’s vision and business strategy during a press conference at Samsung Latin America Forum 2016

For the first time at Samsung Forum, the company detailed in depth its Corporate Citizenship initiatives all around Latin America.

“Our strategy in Corporate Social Responsibility is based in using Samsung’s global network and innovations to create positive change for people across the world. Specifically, in Latin America, we have chosen education as our main cause”, explains Helvio Kanamaru, senior manager of Corporate Citizenship at Samsung Latin America Office.

In this context, Samsung works with three major programs in the region. They are:

• Solve for Tomorrow is a program that challenges young students in Latin America (since 2014) to show creative ideas of how Math and Science can improve their local communities. Goal: stimulate youth’s engagement into thinking about practical solutions to issues encountered in daily lives (society).
• Tech Institute is the program in which Samsung contributes to personal and technical professional training for young people in order to promote inclusion according to labor demand in the industry. Samsung is even starting to provide the 1^st IoT Tech Institute of Latin America, in partnership with USP University in Brasil (in São Paulo).
• Samsung Smart Schools are aimed at providing students and teachers of under-served areas with quality environment for education. Goal: enhance the learning process of students enrolled in public schools by providing new technologies and equipment, making the educational environment more intuitive, interactive and efficient.

“Innovation brings us not only inspiration to create new products and to deliver growth for our business, but also, great ability to help us on addressing some of the major social challenges of the world”, concludes Pedro Kim, CEO and President of Samsung Latin America.

“At Samsung, we aim to meet and anticipate consumers’ needs and the development of the first GSMA-compliant eSIM is further example of our pursuit of meaningful innovation,” said Yunsang Park, Senior Vice President of R&D Office, Mobile Communications Business at Samsung Electronics. “We are excited to introduce Samsung Gear S2 3G classic as not only a starting point for more devices to be connected globally, but as a step forward in our commitment to support the development of the IoT market.”

Samsung has played an instrumental role in driving cross-industry collaboration among global operators and SIM vendors to implement a GSMA compliant eSIM to consumer device. The company worked with several industry partners including: M1 Limited, Orange, Singtel, StarHub Ltd., Telefónica, TeliaSonera, Vodafone Group and SIM Vendors – Gemalto, Giesecke & Devrient (G&D) and Oberthur Technologies. This group has been working together to create a technical specification, which will allow users to download a mobile network operator’s profile to eSIM-powered companion devices.

The common approach and consistent user experience delivered by this eSIM solution will help grow the IoT market, allowing manufacturers to build products that can support global deployment. In turn, it will also benefit consumers by maintaining security and providing more choices on devices and operators. Samsung and its partners are striving to ensure that this proposed eSIM solution gives full coverage to every region and is made available to more customers.

“We worked closely with the mobile industry to create a global and interoperable specification that gives consumers with a mobile subscription the freedom to remotely connect their devices to a mobile network. This is just the beginning of what is possible and will open up the market to new and exciting device.”

– Jean-Christophe Tisseuil, Head of SIM, GSMA

“Orange is improving the secondary device customer journey and we are excited that our customers using the Gear S2 will be able to leave their mobile at home but still be reachable. With the proliferation of connected devices, the cellular connectivity of multiple objects will be of paramount importance and the work we have carried out with Samsung and other partners towards a standardised approach to eSIM is a great step forward.”

– Yves Maitre, Executive Vice President of Connected Objects and Partnerships, Orange.

“Telefónica welcomes Samsung’s contribution to the phase 1 GSMA eSIM technical specification and is pleased to see how Samsung has implemented it into the new wearables family. We are firmly committed to support the GSMA activity to create a fully interoperable eSIM standard as a critical enabler of secure connectivity and privacy for the next billion connected devices.”

– Francisco Montalvo, Group Devices Director at Telefónica

“We’re really happy to be part of this initiative and to bring even more great services and devices to our customers. The connected world is growing by the day and we want our customers to enjoy every part of it – on their terms. The eSIM is an important step in this direction.”

– Jesper Hedblom, Head of Commercial, TeliaSonera

“The GSMA’s new e-SIM standard gives our customers freedom to directly connect devices like the Samsung Gear S2 classic 3G to Vodafone’s fast and reliable mobile networks. We’ll launch this innovative device in Germany. The smartwatch can be easily added to our customers’ Vodafone Red plan allowing them to stay confidently connected while doing everything from receiving calls to going for a run – even if they leave their smartphone at home.”

– Patrick Chomet, Group Terminals Director, Vodafone Group

“The launch of the Samsung Gear S2 sets a benchmark for the upper end of the smartwatch market in terms of connectivity capabilities and customer experience. By securely and remotely managing the smartwatch’s mobile subscription credentials, Gemalto’s On-Demand Subscription Management helps greatly simplify the deployment of the Samsung Gear S2 all over the world, in accordance with GSMA specifications.”

– David Buhan, Senior Vice President of Mobile Subscriber Services for Gemalto

“We are proud to be part of the commercial launch of Samsung’s Gear S2, especially since it is equipped with our eSIM management technology. In cooperation with the Mobile Network Operators, Samsung and G&D have been among the driving forces behind the latest GSMA eSIM specification addressing consumers and the IoT. It was a successful team effort, the results of which are being showcased at the MWC. We look forward to continuing this close cooperation with Samsung and the MNO partners to keep delivering secure and convenient eSIM solutions for consumers.”

– Carsten Ahrens, Head of the Telecommunication Industries division, Giesecke & Devrient (G&D)

“Together with Samsung and our MNO partners we are fully committed to deliver standalone connectivity for wearable devices in compliance with the use cases defined by the GSMA Consumer RSP initiative. OT’s embedded SIM technology and remote SIM provisioning solution will enable MNOs to provide their subscribers with a very convenient and fully digitized customer experience, without any impact on MNOs’ existing system and network infrastructure, and without any compromise on the privacy and security of MNOs’ credentials.”

– Marek Juda, EVP of Oberthur Technologies, Connected Device Makers business

The Gear S2 classic 3G equipped with GSMA compliant eSIM will be available starting from March.

Full details and product images are available at www.samsungmobilepress.com.

*Availability may vary depending on regions.

A series of new videos released by Samsung Electronics is showcasing some of those recent apps that users might find the most helpful. And the variety of ways that the Gear S2 can be applied to your life is impressive. Whether having fun on the slopes, communicating with friends or finding a nearby ride, new apps for the Gear S2 are helping people do more and enjoy their lives more.

Powering Through the Powder With Ski Pursuit

Winter is the season people love to hit the slopes and experience the thrills of racing downhill through fresh-fallen powder. But just how fast are you going? How far have you gone? And what was that route like?

These are just some of the answers that can be found using Ski Pursuit. You can record all the stats of your latest run—maximum speed, average speed, duration, distance, ascent and decent—and then post those numbers to Facebook for your friends to enjoy. Now you can recall all the twists and turns of the slopes with just a few turns of the Gear S2 bezel.

Voxer Gives Voice to Messaging Possibilities

One of the most popular advantages of the Gear S2, making it more than just a beautiful timepiece, is its ability to improve the ease of communicating with your friends and colleagues. And with the new Voxer app, which utilizes the company’s famous blend of voice and text messaging, the Gear S2 becomes even more versatile.

Among its many applications, Voxer can turn the Gear S2 into a walkie-talkie, allowing you to just select a contact and send them a voice message with the push of a button. Voxer also lets you look at notifications, listen to voice messages, make replies and more. By expanding the voice possibilities for the Gear S2, Voxer makes it simpler for you to communicate.

Ride in Style With Uber

Uber has been available for the Gear S2 for a few weeks now, offering a uniquely convenient platform for the popular ride-sharing app. As the Gear S2 video for Uber shows, using the Samsung smartwatch makes it a snap to call for any type of Uber car and get to wherever you want to go.

* The services listed above may not be available in all regions. Features may vary by region. Additionally, the service provider may change the name and/or value of its application at any time. Restrictions may also apply.

“Samsung has continuously worked to help people live smarter lives, and this year, we are taking another huge step forward with our diverse range of connected products and services,” said David Lowes, CMO, Samsung Europe “We will continue to enhance and revolutionise consumers’ everyday lives by listening and anticipating consumer needs to deliver products and services that create meaningful progress that can enrich everyday life.”

The European Forum event follows a hugely successful Consumer Electronics Show (CES) for Samsung in January, at which the brand collected an incredible 80 awards, including Best of Innovation award in TV.

Setting a New Standard for Viewing and Audio Experience

Samsung unveiled its spectacular new line-up of SUHD TVs that feature unparalleled picture quality with Quantum dot display. The world’s first bezel-less curved design, which is beautiful from every angle, also provides the smartest user experience that makes it easy for consumers to access all their entertainment content in one place. Samsung’s 2016 SUHD TVs feature the world’s only cadmium-free, 10-bit Quantum dot display, offering the most true-to-life picture quality, with stunning brightness, exceptional contrast and the most lifelike colours ever offered by Samsung.

This new range provides a premium, high dynamic range (HDR) experience, with 1,000 nit HDR minimum for a higher level contrast between light and dark images. New Ultra Black technology also significantly reduces light reflection, further enhancing picture quality with minimal glare.

Built on the Tizen operating system (OS), Samsung’s 2016 Smart TVs make it easier for consumers to discover and access all their favorite content and services, from TV and movies to games and program information, all in one place on the new Smart Hub. The need to juggle multiple remote controls is also eliminated. The Samsung Smart TV will automatically recognize the type of set-top box, game console, OTT box or home cinema system to which it is connected.

Showcasing the full SUHD range from the 7000 series models to the premium 9000 series, Samsung will bring a wide selection of SUHD TV models to Europe in spring 2016.

The company also revealed the first Ultra HD Blu-ray player, the HDR-compatible UBD-K8500, which offers four times the resolution and 64 times higher colour expression than conventional Blu-ray players. The UBD-K8500’s built-in upscaling technology enhances the picture quality from standard Blu-ray discs and DVDs, and consumers can also play CDs. The Samsung Ultra HD Blu-ray player will be available from March across Europe and each device will be sold with a copy of Fox Home Entertainment, The Martian, Starring Matt Damon in Ultra HD.

Samsung also unveiled the latest additions to its audio product lineup, including the HW-K950 Soundbar, the company’s first to feature Dolby Atmos®, and the industry’s first soundbar package to include two Dolby Atmos®-enabled wireless rear speakers. The complete HW-K950 package delivers incredible 5.1.4-channel sound.

At the event Samsung showcased its newest curved monitors and demonstrated the productivity benefits of its professional-geared displays. With the release of its CF591 and CF390 monitors, Samsung continues to elevate its pioneering curved display design to offer even greater visibility and user comfort. These 1800R curvature monitors match the natural shape of the human eye, providing a more natural viewing experience.

Intelligent Next Generation of Digital Appliances That Transform the Home

Samsung’s market leadership in digital appliances is also evident with its launch of smart and practical innovations that could make a big difference to household chores.

The new AddWash Front-load Washing Machine has a distinctive access door that makes it convenient to add any item, such as a piece of forgotten laundry, without having to drain the washer in order to open the main washer door mid-cycle. It also allows users to add hand-washed items for rinsing, or additional softener anytime during the cycle.

It also comes with an array of smart functions, which work with both Android and iOS smartphones. That not only makes it easy to monitor the progress of the laundry program, but also offers the option to alert users on their smartphone just before the start of a new washing cycle, for example if they want to add a few delicate or hand-wash items towards the end of the wash cycle.

An embodiment of Samsung’s innovation in delivering super time savings and washing performance, the AddWash Washing Machine comes with a SuperSpeed feature that makes it possible to complete a normal wash in less than an hour without compromising washing performance. Samsung AddWash will be available across Europe from this month.

Samsung used its European Forum to announce that French-English two-star Michelin chef, Michel Roux Jr. is to become the eighth member of its esteemed Club des Chefs.  Michel Roux Jr., of Le Gavroche and Roux, is also known in the UK as a popular TV personality, appearing as a judge and presenter on the BBC’s popular primetime programme, Masterchef.

Samsung also announced the expansion of its robot vacuum lineup with POWERbot Turbo Wi-Fi. Now with 70 times more powerful suction than leading robot vacuum brands*, its Cyclone Force system uses strong centrifugal forces to pick up and separate dirt into the outer chamber to reduce filter chopping and keep optimal suction power.

Equipped with Smart Control Wi-Fi connectivity, the vacuum enables consumers to control the movement of the vacuum remotely using their smartphone. The “Select & Go” feature creates a virtual map of the entire home on your smartphone app, with each room that can be named individually. It then lets you pick specific areas or rooms in the home that may need cleaning. Simply select a room and the vacuum will make its way over there. With an enhanced digital mapping system that can literally “see” its way around your home, Samsung’s new robot vacuum delivers the ultimate clean, all without lifting a finger.

A major new attraction at the European Forum 2016 was the new Family Hub Refrigerator, redefining the kitchen with the ultimate smart home appliance, which helps families to connect and provides new ways to manage, shop and prepare food. Its centrepiece is a 21.5-inch Full HD LCD touchscreen, a digital command centre for the connected home, which combines powerful performance with ground-breaking technology never before seen in a refrigerator.

The Family Hub’s Key capabilities include:

• Improved Food Management: Three built-in cameras take a photo of the inside of the refrigerator every time the door is closed so consumers can always see what they have wherever they go, via their smartphone.

• Family Communication Centre: The Samsung Family Hub Refrigerator enables the family to write notes, post photos, share calendars and artwork, right on the refrigerator’s touchscreen, or using their smartphone if they are away.

• Connected Entertainment: With the Family Hub Refrigerator’s built-in stereo speakers, people can stream their favourite music service, or TV content from their Samsung Smart TVs directly to the touchscreen, as well as connecting to their own Bluetooth speakers.

Breaking Barriers in Mobile Productivity and Wearable Technology

At the European Forum 2016, Samsung also showcased the soon-to-be launched new Gear S2 classic 18k rose gold and platinum. For a more personal and customizable experience, Samsung is expanding its line of watch straps and watch face options. Samsung has partnered with exclusive designers, such as Colombo, on premium watch straps for the Gear S2, and has introduced fun and creative watch faces including Peanuts characters and artworks from Keith Haring, Jean-Michael Basquiat, Jeremyville and Burton Morris.

In addition, the Gear S2 will be compatible with devices running on iOS to extend accessibility to a wider range of mobile users.

Samsung also showcased the Galaxy TabPro S, which combines Samsung’s world-class technology powered by Microsoft Windows 10 operating system to create the thinnest and lightest 2-in1 tablet available on the market. By integrating the most popular features of laptops and tablets, users now have access to full notebook PC functionality in a lightweight tablet for the most productive mobile experience.

With a sleek and lightweight form factor, the Galaxy TabPro S is designed to be easily carried around all day, powering you through your home and work life. A full-sized keyboard cover enhances the usability, while a flexible hinge enables optimal, dual-angle viewing for the clearest display under any circumstance.

The Galaxy TabPro S extends Samsung’s advanced technology to the Windows operating system by providing the first Super AMOLED display for Windows, as well as other core features such as fast charging and up to 10.5 hours of battery life. For enhanced productivity, the Galaxy TabPro S is also compatible with a multiport adopter and Bluetooth Pen.

Samsung as a Top Brand in Europe

Last year, Samsung Electronics was named the second most valuable brand in the world, according to results from world leading, independent brand valuation consultancy, Brand Finance. The company was also named a top ten Superbrand in the Business Superbrands 2015 category. In its 34^th year of operation within Europe Samsung continues to invest heavily in European design and production creating vast employment in the region.

Looking forward, Samsung aims to continue its efforts in cultivating premium brand strength through providing a more personalised experience for customers, both before and after purchase. Through deep consumer insights, Samsung will continue to grow in parallel with consumers’ evolving needs as they go through different life stages.

*Suction power tested on Samsung VR9300 in comparison with a leading robot vacuum brand’s particular model in the US market as of March 2016. The test was performed by an independent lab (SLG) based on the test method modified from EN 60312-1

The collaboration of Samsung Electronics and Italian designer Alessandro Mendini was a significant event in the tech world. The Italian designer brought his unique sensitivity to the sleek design of the Gear S2, impressing consumers around the world on launch day.

Previous smartwatches were simply regarded as an extra mobile accessory, but the release of Samsung’s Gear S2 marked a turning point, demonstrating how a digital device can transform the face of a traditional fashion item.

The Gear S2 is a smartwatch that was designed to enhance the everyday life of the consumer by providing convenient access to essential and customizable content right from one’s wrist. Early smartwatch faces, for example, allowed health enthusiasts to instantly measure and monitor their fitness and diet data at a glance, while sports fans could keep a close eye on the big game. However, despite the variety of customizable features available, there was still room for enhancement.

A Design Tool for Both Amateurs and Experts

Enter the Gear Watch Designer. This new tool allows anyone interested in creating a Gear S2 watch face to design, produce and distribute their own using a variety of editing tools. While such a program may sound complicated, users don’t need to be professional coders or designers to use it.

Utilizing a basic UI, the program lets users choose from a selection of design elements, such as watch hands and backgrounds, to create their own watch face. Additionally, they can also upload their own designs created with professional programs like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and apply them according to their preferences.

Anyone interested in creating a Gear watch face can join the beta version of Gear Watch Designer is now available for download. To get a better idea of how the program works, watch this tutorial video, and then check out the tips below for designing your own personalized watch face with ease. Here is a quick guide to use this program.

Step 1: Create a Personalized Background

There are a number of default background options available, but users can click “Import Image” to open and use their own personal photographs to make their watch face truly one-of-a-kind. The “Appearance” menu on the right is for adjusting the contrast, opacity and brightness of the image.

Step 2: Select Your Style

Diverse types of plate indices

In the Index Setting menu, users can set the dial to include 12 hours

While the numeral index displays the hours like a traditional watch, circular and square indices can add a simple, contemporary look to the customized watch face. The “Index Type” menu gives users the option to arrange indices by hour or minute and second. Select “Custom” to set the index to one week or 12 months.

Step 3: Get Things in Order

Move the bar in the timeline and watch the hands rotate

Create a background first then add the watch hands to ensure that the images do not overlay. When arranging the watch hands, it is recommended that the hour hand be set first, followed by the minute and second hands, respectively. Otherwise, altering the order later will be more complicated. The same rings true for adding “Complications,” which include shortcuts, notifications, fitness data and battery usage, among others.

Next, drag the blue bar along the timeline at the bottom of the screen. The hands will tick and users will then be able to add other elements more intuitively.

Extra Tip: Pivot for Differentiation

“Pivot” takes the sophistication of design to the next level

Want a digital watch with a unique face? Then right-click on the watch hands and select “Show Pivot.” The pivot is the central point of the watch face and lets one easily rotate the indices or move the point on which the hands are pinned.

Once your unique watch face design is complete, click “Run” on the top right of the screen to check if it works. Users can review their design while adjusting time and battery status. Click “Run on Device” to transfer the watch face to the Gear S2.

This sample watch face displays battery level, heart rate and step count

The program also makes it fun to experiment with different options, such as adding an additional “Day of Week” dial to the watch face, as shown in the video demonstration. In fact, one of the best things about Gear Watch Designer is that it allows users to set up the theme exactly the way they want. And, thanks to the simplicity of the program’s step-by-step guide, users will have no difficulty designing their watch face.

Watch faces generated by WatchMaster designers using the Gear Watch Designer

Designed primarily with preset elements, the sample face designed in the video is fairly standard. But there are plenty of more elaborate watch faces created with Gear Watch Designer displayed on Samsung Gear Apps. Since the beta release on December 29 last year, a number of designers have introduced watch faces crafted with Gear Watch Designer. In particular, well-known creator WatchMaster offers an expansive collection of unique watch faces crafted by certified designers from all over the world. It just takes a bit of intuition and an imaginative idea for any user to create watch faces that are just as stylish.

Samsung Electronics began the global launch of the highly anticipated Gear S2 Classic New Edition on January 25. China is the first country in which the device has been released, but the launch is set to continue across the globe early this year.

The unveiling of the upgraded version of Samsung’s highly praised smartwatch at CES earlier this month wowed the tech world by merging fashion with technology. To reflect Samsung’s commitment to bringing more choices to consumers, the reintroduction of the Gear S2 Classic takes the intuitive, award-winning design of the Gear S2 and incorporates high-end materials and two unique finishes: 18K Rose Gold and Platinum. The new 18K Rose Gold edition features rose gold plating (18K) and is sold with an Ivory Genuine Leather Band, while the Platinum version showcases platinum finishes with a Black Genuine Leather Band.

Additionally, a new suite of stylish watch faces that feature Peanuts characters and artwork by creatives such as Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat, provides a more personalized wearable experience and allows consumers to easily express their personality with a simple twist of the bezel. Moreover, in an effort to further improve the smartwatch’s user capabilities, Samsung has partnered with additional developers to offer an expanded application ecosystem that complements multiple lifestyles. New additions include the CNN and Bloomberg Gear S2 apps, which boast their own specialized watch face features, while others like eBay, ESPN, Uber and Voxer are designed to enhance the convenience of the device.

As countries throughout the world begin to release the Gear S2 Classic New Edition, the device will quickly differentiate itself from other wearables with its unique features that enable it to function as both a stylish fashion accessory and a practical lifestyle product that adds convenience to one’s everyday life.

What’s on your wrist?

Perhaps you wear the latest fitness tracker to keep up with your daily activity and caloric intake. Or maybe you don a classic timepiece to convey your sense of style. Either way, there are plenty of practical and aesthetic advantages to accessorizing the wrist, and with recent developments in wearables, which provide personalized information at a glance, there are more reasons than ever to do so.

Take the Gear S2, for example. Released in 2015, Samsung’s highly praised smartwatch surpassed expectations, both in terms of design and usability. Its unique rotating bezel—an industry first—redefined the user experience, offering the ultimate in convenience and usability to the consumer, while its circular watch face design and premium accessories blurred the lines between technology and fashion.

Now, Samsung reintroduces the Gear S2 classic, which takes the intuitive, award-winning design of the Gear S2, and adds high-end materials and two unique finishes. These new options offer users diverse choices to express and match their style, while an expanded app ecosystem and new mobile payment features enhance the device’s functionality.

A New Look

The latest Gear S2 classic is now available in 18K Rose Gold and Platinum, new premium materials that reflect Samsung’s commitment to bringing more choices to consumers with a taste for the finer things in life. The new 18K Rose Gold edition features rose gold plating (18K) and will be sold with an Ivory Genuine Leather Band, and the Platinum version will showcase platinum finishes with a Black Genuine Leather Band.

Rose Gold, a popular color in recent years, is versatile and suits almost all skin tones, while Platinum is strong and durable, and doesn’t fade or change color. Both versions are fashion-forward and add a touch of elegance to one’s personal style.

Designer Straps

In the past, Samsung delivered a more personalized wearable experience by teaming up with luxury brands and artists like Italian designer Alessandro Mendini. It continues to do so by collaborating with companies under the “Designed for Samsung” program to offer a variety of watch strap options.

This time around, the straps include ones by Colombo via della Spiga, the iconic brand expert in leather processing since 1955. The straps will be crafted in crocodile leather, a classic of Colombo, and will be completely handmade by skilled artisans.

Updated Faces

Samsung has continued to extend its partnerships with world-renowned artists to offer a colorful collection of new watch faces. These new designs feature artwork from Keith Haring, graffiti artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, cartoonist Jeremyville and pop artist Burton Morris. Other designs include the highly adored Peanuts characters. The fun, inspiring watch faces provide a more personalized wearable experience and allow consumers to easily express their personality with a simple twist of the bezel.

In addition to using the preset watch face designs, users can also unleash their creativity and generate their own with the Gear Watch Designer. This user-friendly tool helps semi or professional designers design, produce and distribute watch faces without the complexity of code scripting. With so many customization features, the Gear S2 is not just a smartwatch, but instead a fashion item that can be modified according to one’s mood, outfit of the day or even the season.

https://youtu.be/mkx0XbH-Yts

An App for Everyone

Earlier last year, Samsung launched its Tizen Software Development Kit (SDK) for the Gear S2 so that developers could more easily create enhanced standalone apps for the device. Moreover, in an effort to expand the smartwatch’s user capabilities even more, the company has partnered with additional developers to offer a wider variety of applications that appeal to multiple lifestyles.

Some of them, like the CNN and Bloomberg Gear S2 apps, utilize their own specialized watch face features, while others like eBay, ESPN, Uber and Voxer were designed to enhance the convenience of the device. By expanding the application ecosystem, and including a variety of apps that focus on news, health, traffic, banking and music, among others, the Gear S2 becomes a life necessity rather than a simple tech accessory.

A New Way to Pay and Extended Compatibility

Another feature that will improve the usability of the smartwatch is Samsung Pay, which will soon be available to Gear S2 users starting from the U.S. Samsung Pay’s technology, which utilizes Near Field Communication (NFC), offers consumers a convenient, safe way to pay virtually anywhere, right from their wrist.

Finally, the Gear S2 will be compatible with even more devices to extend accessibility to a wider range of mobile users. In addition to supporting Android devices, the wearable will be compatible with those running on iOS*.

As the smartwatch trend grows, the Gear S2 will continue to stand out from the rest, thanks to its unique features that enable it to function as both a stylish fashion accessory, as well as a practical lifestyle product that adds convenience to one’s everyday life.

*Gear Manager will be ready for download and use from the Apple App Store.

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Continuing its leadership in the wearables category, Samsung Electronics, announced two new elegant editions of the Gear S2 classic, one encased in 18K Rose Gold and another in Platinum, offering users diverse options to express and match their style while highlighting its circular design and advanced functionality.

“In 2015, we set a new standard with the Gear S2 in smart wearable category. We broke barriers to introduce one of Samsung’s most progressive wearable devices to date,” said Younghee Lee, Executive Vice President of Global Marketing, Mobile Communications Business at Samsung Electronics. “In 2016, we will continue to raise the bar, so that we can deliver products that our customers want most.”

With the successful launch of the Gear S2, Samsung is openly working with partners to provide more convenience and expanded user capabilities. CNN and Bloomberg Gear S2 apps, together with its watch face feature, have been a few of the more popular apps followed by a variety of watch faces and convenient apps like eBay, ESPN, Uber and Voxer.

The new Gear S2 classic will include NFC technology to offer Samsung Pay, which will be available to Gear S2 users early this year starting in the U.S.

For a more personal and customizable experience, Samsung is expanding its line of watch straps and watch face options. Samsung has partnered with exclusive designers, such as Colombo, on premium watch straps for the Gear S2, and has introduced fun and creative watch faces including Peanuts characters and artworks from Keith Haring, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Jeremyville and Burton Morris.

The new Gear S2 classic will be available in Rose Gold case with an Ivory Genuine Leather Band and in Platinum case with a Black Genuine Leather Band beginning in February.

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What are some extremely hot items people are buying for Christmas gifts this year? One-in-three consumers say they plan on buying emerging tech, such as smart home devices, smartwatches and drones. That’s a huge change in shopping habits considering just a few years ago it was too small a category to track, according to the 22nd Annual CE Holiday Purchase Patterns Study, a survey of more than 1,000 U.S. adults conducted by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA).

Smart Homes and Smart Wearables Lead the Way

Leading those emerging technology gift ideas are smart home devices that give users 24/7 access to their homes with 15 percent of shoppers saying they intend to buy that type of device. This projection reflects the growing popularity of smart home services that have recently evolved from button-press security systems to ones that allow users to control and observe their homes from anywhere in the world. One such example is Samsung SmartThings line-up—an intelligent system in which sensors and smart devices connected via a SmartThings Hub can be monitored and controlled through a single streamlined app.

The next quite popular purchases are wearable fitness activity trackers and smartwatches, each with 12 percent. Those numbers have doubled since 2013, indicating the possibility that such products could be following a similar path to mainstream popularity as core technologies like tablets and smartphones did in the past.

The CTA study also found that consumers are primarily purchasing wearables to set personal fitness and health goals and to track their progress toward them. As such, wearables that feature health and fitness monitoring sensors, like those embedded in Samsung’s Gear S2, have been ranked by consumers as the much desirable. The Gear S2 also comes preloaded with the popular S Health app. Together, S Health and the Gear S2 are capable of fitness, diet and health monitoring by allowing the user to log fitness activities, track their heart rate and water consumption, and measure their overall activity over the course of the day.

Action cameras, too, are emerging as a popular gift, with 12 percent of shoppers saying they plan on buying them. And drones, at 7 percent—more than double than last year’s figure—are no longer just for commercial use. CTA forecasts that 400,000 consumer drones will be sold this holiday season.

Top Tech to Put Under the Tree

The CTA survey indicated that a whopping 160 million U.S. holiday shoppers intend to purchase consumer technology this year, spending a total of $34 billion—and that translates into a lot of happy children and loved ones over this holiday season. The most popular tech gifts being given in 2015 are headphones and earbuds (28 percent and 27 percent, respectively), tablets (26 percent), portable Bluetooth speakers (25 percent), notebook/laptop computers (25 percent) and smartphones (24 percent).

Correspondingly, the survey also found that the tech products that U.S. consumers most want to receive this holiday season are TVs. After TV, the top products people are hoping for are tablets, smartphones, notebook/laptop computers and videogame consoles.

Whatever gifts you give and receive, spending time together with your family and loved ones is what truly makes the holiday season. But picking the hottest gifts can help make the holidays a little more festive. The new interest in emerging tech shows how tastes are once again changing, just like with the rise of smartphones and tablets a few years ago. Whether you get a smart home device, a wearable activity tracker or a smartwatch, it’s good to know that these gifts will put you ahead of the tech curve this holiday season.

When Samsung developed the Gear S2, the company immediately knew Uber would be a perfect fit for the revolutionary smartwatch. With a circular interface, 3G connectivity (available on certain models) and straightforward navigation, the device was designed to simplify day-to-day tasks like getting around, whether commuting to work or traveling around New York. Utilizing Uber’s application programming interface, the Gear S2 now makes it easier to do all these things, even in those instances when your phone is out of reach.

An Easier Way to Travel

New York City is a sight to behold during the holidays. Snow blankets the busy streets of Manhattan, crowds gawk at the spectacular window displays along Fifth Avenue and skaters glide across the ice under the glowing lights of the Rockefeller Christmas tree. Traversing this urban jungle, however, isn’t always as appealing. Public transportation can be confusing, and competing with throngs of tourists to hail a cab is chaotic to say the least. Which is why Uber, an application that seamlessly connects riders to drivers, has become favorited among business travelers and tourists alike.

Though traditionally used on smartphones, the app has recently been updated to re-create the Uber experience on the Gear S2, making traveling even more convenient. Within the app, all the core Uber features are supported, including product selection, ride status updates and the ability to drag and drop pin locations. As such, through this new Uber experience, users can save time and stay moving.

Taking a Spin Around New York with the Gear S2

So, if you’ve just wrapped up dinner in SoHo and want to take in a spectacular night view of the city at the Empire State Building, simply turn the rotating bezel of the Gear S2 to access the Uber application. You can effortlessly set your pickup point from the app’s intuitive user interface. Next, request your preferred level of service, ranging from the basic UberX to UberBLACK, the company’s pricier luxury service.

Once you confirm the driver, the app will pull up a map with which you can quickly determine the vehicle’s estimated time of arrival. Review the driver and car information with a simple twist of the bezel, or cancel your request if necessary. After arriving at your destination, check the driver’s rate and total fare of your ride right from your wrist. Before you know it, you’re 102 floors above The City That Never Sleeps, relaxed from a convenient and hassle-free journey.

Being able to request an Uber vehicle, receive trip updates and complete your ride without ever having to ever touch your phone also means you can use your hands for more important things, like snapping photos of Times Square or chowing down on the city’s famous pizza. Likewise, its convenience and speed ensure that you get to see as much of your travel destination as possible.

With an updated design and hardware, Samsung and Uber have brought a popular experience to the Gear S2, making travel easier and bringing people and their cities even closer.

* The services listed above may not be available in all regions and features may vary by region, and service provider may change the name and/or value of its application at any time. Restrictions may also apply.

December is half over and New Year’s Day is just around the corner. Getting into the holiday spirit of “in with the new,” Samsung launched a new out of home (OOH) advertising campaign. Seasonal signage, interactive billboards, metro station takeovers and pop-up stores celebrate the new wearable and the new year to come.

As part of the festivities, Samsung is releasing a wide range of holiday-themed watch faces, including winter landscapes, snowflakes, snowmen and snow globes. There are even faces that look like Christmas sweaters, Christmas trees and more. And as usual with the Gear S2, you can customize the faces, and try out a variety of colors and looks.

In addition, the festive Gear S2 greetings, showcasing the special watch faces for both the Gear S2 and the Gear S2 classic, are surfacing all over Europe and Asia. A coffee shop on Seoul’s popular Garasugil Street, in the famous Gangnam district, is operating a fanciful Gear S2 pop-up store until the end of the month, full of holiday cheer. It features such attention-getters as an entrance decorated like a giant present, a large LED installation depicting the Gear S2 and a Christmas tree full of watch-face ornaments. There is also an experience zone on the first floor for visitors to try the Gear S2.

Take a look at some of the colorful ways that the Gear S2 is appearing around the world this holiday season.

A coffee shop in Seoul.

Gear S2 on the wall of one of the world’s top museums, the Natural History Museum in Paris.

Gear S2 covered the Central Building wall in the heart of Central, Hong Kong.

Gear S2 at the center of Italian fashion, Via Montenapoleone, where luxury brands and products are showcased in Milan.

Gear S2 filled the walls of the BFI IMAX cinema in London.

Marble Arch in London.

Central House of Artist in Moscow.

Over recent years, a new type of talent known as the “generalist” has emerged. Generalists refer those who create new value by combining many fields and types of knowledge. At Samsung Electronics, one of the most interesting and important types of generalist to emerge has been the technical designer position. Technical designers have the mindset of designers, but the ability to program, allowing them to bridge these two very different fields. To learn about this new approach to UX design, the Samsung Newsroom recently met a few of the technical designers behind the revolutionary Samsung Gear S2.

Combining Technology and Design

Perhaps technical design is not a term with which everybody is familiar. The role of technical designers is to optimize the user experience. More specifically, they use source codes and programs to design functions that explore newer and easier device interactions, creating an optimal user experience.

Until recently, engineers and designers normally communicated with each other only through the designers’ static sketches or documents. Engineers would then have to turn those sketches into final products. But the ambiguities and difficulties in this process sometimes caused delays and misunderstandings. To improve this process, the role of technical designers has emerged as an important one.

Bonghee Han, Principal Designer, explained, “Technical designers are creative designers who have engineering competency and contribute to creating the highest quality UX designs. The importance of technical designers stood out during the designing of the Gear S2, working as a bridge between the graphic designers and the engineers, helping the communication between them. The technical designers considered how to combine design with user interaction to ensure the end result was as functional as it was visually appealing.”

Creating the Circle

“We did not get together intending to do some certain task. In the beginning, some people were designing movements and the user experience, and through Flash they brought their ideas to life.” said Jungwoo Choi, Senior Designer.

However, in developing the Gear S2, which has a new circular shape, naturally the design for new interactions became more important and the designers’ role grew.

“Designing new interactions on a circular device for the Gear S2, many different attempts were made in nearly all aspects of the device. Before the prototypes were made, programs were developed to review the design outcomes, so that gave us more time to think” Choi added.

Their ideation meetings were very passionate. If someone suggested an idea, someone else would immediately be working on the coding. The designers created hundreds and thousands of prototypes and tested them thoroughly to create the best experience for users.

Jongwoo Shin, Senior Designer explained, “After countless attempts, the most optimal point for rotating the display between screens and content was found. This process was applied to everything, including applications, screens and touch responses.”

“Because I believe the most perfect UX is a UX that feels so natural people don’t think about it, I worked on everything in a lot of detail. All these efforts became the basis for the Gear S2, and I am very proud of it.” Shin added.

Working Towards a Shared Goal

When getting to know Samsung’s technical designers, it is remarkable to discover their range of academic backgrounds.

“I studied crafts at university. I wanted to see the outcome of my thoughts and sketches. So I wanted to study to learn how to realize my sketches, so my drawings didn’t just stay as drawings, but were brought to life. This is why I double-majored, to build my knowledge of software development. As I was studying, I learned that I could realize my imagination through source codes, and that’s what attracted me to technical design,” said Minwook Na, Senior Designer.

Jungwoo Choi studied mathematics but was very interested in coding and visuals. Jongwoo Shin studied engineering but was interested in graphics and motion. All of the technical designers have very different degrees and background knowledge, but they are currently working together as a team.

Synergy of Designers and Engineers

“When I was working on the Gear S2, I imagined what it would be like using it and what my friends and family would think using it, and that was enjoyable. In the future, I should be careful not to limit myself to stereotypical ideas. Caging yourself in could hinder your creativity. It is necessary to always stay curious about new things,” said Minkyu Park, Senior Designer.

User experience is a term that was generally unfamiliar 15 to 20 years ago, however, even back then providing convenience to users was actively discussed. And so, too, was technical design. These are the people who have been designing movements and creating new user experiences. Technical designers are crossing the boundaries between designers and developers, creating new synergies. We look forward to the role they will play in the future.

It was around 2010 that Samsung began to actively design emojis specifically for the company’s mobile devices. Its more recent efforts have placed a greater emphasis on reflecting consumers’ evolving communication habits in its devices. The Galaxy S6 edge+, released in August, introduced an enhanced People edge, a device-exclusive function that enables users to send messages, emails and emojis. Likewise, the Gear S2 smartwatch gives consumers the option to reply to messages with emojis.

There’s an emoji to represent nearly any mood, product or activity one can think of. But more than just cute characters, this ever-expanding collection of ideograms has come to be one of the most widely used forms of communication throughout the world, surpassing both language and generational barriers. Restoring the facial expressions and body language that we make in person but not online, emojis are quickly transforming the way we as humans interact in a digital world that is becoming more and more emotionally expressive and visually driven. The impact is so far-reaching, in fact, that the Oxford Dictionaries Word of the Year 2015 is not a word at all—it’s Face with Tears of Joy, the most widely used emoji this year.

The History of the Emoji

The emoji was not born overnight. In fact, its predecessor, the emoticon, paved the way for its entry into the digital communication space. Scott Fahlman, a research professor at Carnegie Mellon University, was the first documented person to use the emoticons and in 1982, when he suggested that they be used to express emotion. Almost two decades later in 1999, Shigetaka Kurita, an employee at Japanese mobile service provider NTT DoCoMo, took the emoticon a step further. Inspired by Chinese characters and manga, Japanese comics, he developed the first emoji prototypes in an effort to deliver the most amount of information as possible in a limited screen space.

As the emoji quickly gained admiration across the globe, communications and technology companies began to develop their own designs. However, when users with differing devices attempted to send emojis to one another, the ideograms appeared as squares because they were not supported by the receiving devices’ operating systems. That’s when Unicode Consortium stepped in.

As the non-profit organization that develops and maintains one of the major international text standards in computing, the Unicode Consortium created a global standard for coding emojis across operating systems in 2010. Most recently, the consortium approved a number of new emojis and emoji modifiers as part of Unicode 8.0 earlier this June in response to the growing demand for more current designs. Now, even though these specific emojis look slightly different across platforms, they can still be easily understood by the receiving user, regardless of their device’s operating system.

Appealing to Everyone

With such developments taking place, Samsung’s UX design team works relentlessly to continuously expand their suite of 1,200-plus emojis, all the while conveying the company’s unique identity in a variety of facial expressions, animals, buildings and signs. And, while many apps, both paid and unpaid, also offer an eye-catching but limited selection of emojis, Samsung’s suite—which is designed entirely by the company itself—can be accessed directly from the device’s keyboard and used in all the device’s services and applications when a bit of variation is desired.

So what makes Samsung’s emojis different from the others?

“We place a great amount of focus on the actual design of the emojis to add a sense of fun to Samsung’s devices,” notes UX Designer Erin Jung. “One way we do that is by increasing the volume of the details. The smiling face, for example, may have larger eyes while the anxious-looking face might have a larger bead of sweat.”

These uniquely Samsung facial expressions typically transcend national, religious and political boundaries—a necessary component of the company’s designs. Even when the emojis introduce a style distinctive to Samsung, it is essential to create images that can be understood by millions of smartphone users around the globe, a fairly arduous task considering that many emojis aren’t always interpreted in the same way.

Another one of Samsung’s UX designers, July Baek, explains, “We are constantly conducting research during the design process to ensure that the emojis can be understood by all, regardless of nationality or age, while adhering to the global standards. Also, we have to keep up with current design trends.”

In addition to these obstacles, there are other limitations that make the design process challenging, like the amount of space the designers have to work with—a small square of 108 by 108 pixels. The limited area makes it particularly challenging when designing action emojis, which must be the same size of facial expressions but usually require more detail to properly illustrate the action. Moreover, creating a design that appeals to everyone is just as difficult.

“In the case of animals, the design cannot simply be cute or realistic,” says UX Designer Boeun Song. “Instead, we have to strike a fine balance between the two so that the final Samsung emoji designs will be admired as widely as possible.”

Users can utilize Samsung’s unique emoji suite by holding down the setting icon on the keyboard.

Getting Technical

Once a design is settled on, the designers work on individual graphics as they appear on actual screens. The designers must take into account how the emojis appear next to text and how the human eye perceives them.

“To eliminate the visual discomfort that can occur when two-dimensional and three-dimensional designs are placed next to one another, we unify the angles and directions of light, composition and shading for each emoji so that they can easily be browsed by users,” Jung elaborates.

Finally, the completed design is applied using the same type of code as the general font on the device so as to take up as little storage space as possible. In other words, the size of the emoji matches the size of the expressed font.

The designers hope to soon implement a technology that allows for the adjustment of the size of the emojis exposed on the screen so that the user’s message, intended emotion and tone of voice are more accurately conveyed. Additionally, they hope that consumers will enjoy Samsung’s unique emoji designs so much, it will inspire them to choose Samsung devices.

“We really like to people-watch. We look at people as they go about their daily lives and try to replicate their facial expressions and gestures in our emoji designs,” says UX Designer Baek. “Human expression has no limits, and we hope to continue to illustrate this through our work.”

The importance of the emoji to modern language is clear. It is a necessary solution for expressing emotion and conveying meaning in an era where written language is limited in doing so. And, just as language evolves over time, it is certain that the emoji will transform, too, further developing the way humanity connects and interacts.

(From left) UX Designer Boeun Song, Erin Jung and July Baek

In the past, developments in skiing and snowboarding technology have often been centered on new forms of clothing, such as lightweight, breathable material, or new shells that make taking one’s boots on and off effortless. Now, however, wearables are making their mark on winter sports around the globe—a revolution catalyzed by products such as Bluetooth controlled gloves, battery-powered foot warmers and ski goggles outfitted with cameras and head-up displays (HUD).

Yet, among the devices infiltrating ski resorts and backcountry treks, the Samsung Gear S2 is perhaps the Swiss Army knife of the group, boasting a number of versatile features and tools that add convenience, safety and fun to users’ outdoor experiences.

Sleek and Sporty for Active Lifestyles

At first glance, it becomes obvious that the Gear S2’s cutting edge circular face, comfortable stainless steel body and premium finishes epitomize elegance. But don’t let its sophisticated looks fool you. This device was designed for active lifestyles, featuring an IP68 water- and dust-resistance rating, which means it stays protected even if you take a fall. And with interchangeable bands and customizable watch faces, it can be personalized to match just about anyone’s style.

Furthermore, the intuitive bezel lets you navigate with ease to get to what you need without having to take off your gloves. Access important notifications at a glance, make phone calls (3G version only) and get directions, even when you leave your phone back at the ski lodge. After all, you’ve got enough equipment to keep your hands full.

Speaking of hands, the Gear S2 lets you keep them where they should be—on your ski poles. Simply activate S Voice to get the latest weather updates or manage your hydration status via S Health. You can also pair the wearable with a Bluetooth-enabled headset like the ultra-sporty Level U headphones and use voice commands to control your playlist for an even bigger adrenaline rush.
Adding to these features is the device’s superior battery capacity. Lasting about three days, the wearable keeps up with you, regardless of your downhill speeds. Even if you forget to charge the Gear S2, you can switch on its Power Saving mode to extend its battery life.

Perfect Partners

In addition to the preloaded apps, the Gear S2 is also compatible with a number of other apps developed by Samsung’s partners to maximize the usability and functionality of the device. A few of them are particularly useful for outdoor winter activities.

From the moment you start your weekend winter getaway, Here for Gear (Navigator), a companion of the preloaded Here Maps app, makes it easy to find your way to your destination. Get maps and turn-by-turn directions and view each step on the screen so you can get to where you need to be quickly and effortlessly to enjoy more time in the snow.

Once you do hit the slopes, keep up with your ski buddies with Voxer. This convenient service lets you send live or recorded voice messages instantly to one person or an entire group in walkie-talkie style. Received messages can be heard directly from the Gear S2, via a paired Bluetooth device or a smartphone equipped with the app. Voxer works on any cellular or Wi-Fi network around the world.

Finally, after a long day of slope-side activities, indulge in a bit of aprés-ski with the help of Yelp. This useful app transforms the Gear S2 watch face into a spinning wheel of attractions, which makes good use of the wearable’s round screen and rotating bezel. Search for the perfect restaurant or watering hole based on your location as well as consumer-submitted reviews to complete your winter weekend getaway.

With multiple features, hands-free functions and a suite of apps perfect for winter sports enthusiasts, this sleek yet sporty device is sure to make a statement on the slopes.

In September, a smartwatch boasting this powerful shape was unveiled at IFA—a design drastically different from the rectangular styles that preceded it. The mesmerizing Gear S2 immediately set itself apart by boasting a more traditionally analog design. Likewise, the concept of the circle was also applied to the Gear VR, another device by Samsung Electronics. The virtual reality headset allows users to watch digital content in 3D with a 360-degree view—an entirely new experience for most.

Yet, it’s not just tech fans that have fallen for the charms of these circle-centric products. They have made their way into the fashion, sports and entertainment industries throughout the world.

In Vogue

On November 28, Samsung held a fashion show in collaboration with BALR., a Netherlands-based fashion brand founded by three professional soccer players. BALR. produces clothing and accessories based on the concepts of simplicity, luxury and comfort. With over 700,000 Instagram fans, the brand is constantly growing in popularity, especially among millennials.

Working hand-in-hand with Samsung, the brand showcased the Gear S2 with the unique styles of BALR. at the show.

https://youtu.be/rxwqli1Qb7w

“The union of the Gear S2 and BALR. illustrates the future of fashion and technology. Going forward, we will continue to feature technology unique to Samsung by merging IT devices with fashion.” said Menno van den Berg, Managing Director at Samsung Electronics Benelux B.V.

Gear S2 Goes Global with Circular Experience Zones

With a unique circular design, Gear S2 experience zones have sprung up in a total of 17 countries across the world. At these interactive locales, which have been established in cities such as New York, Dubai, London and San Paolo, visitors have the opportunity to try out the Gear S2 and Gear VR devices that are showcased on circular tables.

Virtually Courtside

In early October, Samsung hosted “Balls Don’t Lie” in Milan, Italy. At the event, basketball fans donned Level headphones as they watched their favorite NBA teams bring the action of the courts to Samsung’s SUHD TVs in real time.

The highlight of the event, however, was the Gear VR experience, which allowed attendees to get courtside access to the big game.

Luca Rossi, a sports enthusiast who tried out Samsung’s Gear VR first-hand stated, “I just wanted to watch the game since I love basketball, but I felt like I was actually playing the game. It was so vivid that I can’t explain. It was so real that I could turn around in a circle and see the entire venue, just as if I were really there.”

Hang Ten

Just about every surfing aficionado around the world has heard of Portugal’s Supertubos Beach, which made it the perfect location for a 4D surfing experience.

At the Moche Rip Curl Pro in October, participants were able to slip into Gear VR headsets and hop on surf boards.

“I can’t believe Samsung makes such a fun device!” exclaimed Pedro Guedes, an impressed participant, as he took off the headset. “I feel as if I just came back from surfing!”

Frederico Paiva of Samsung Electronics Portugal explained, “People will begin to see our products associated with sports more often in the future. We plan to carry out unprecedented marketing activities in an effort to bring consumers closer to Samsung.”

The Charm of the Circle

Moving away from the rectangular shape which has been so prevalent in technology in the past, the Gear S2 and Gear VR highlight the charm of the circle. These products promise satisfaction to consumers, not only in design but also functionality.

Created to display information in a circular design, the Gear S2 is appealing to the eye. The product is not only revolutionary in shape, but the functionality upgrade of the Gear S2—which is easily connected to other Android devices—has taken the world by storm. Similarly, the Gear VR, which places the user at the center of attention, is a product that is taking the mobile experience to the next level.

Both products beautifully demonstrate the power of the world’s most captivating shape and how it has inspired Samsung to lead the way in technological innovation across multiple industries and lifestyles.

Samsung’s Gear S2, launched in October has been a welcomed surprise in the world of wearable technology. Introducing a circular design with an innovative rotating bezel UX, the Gear S2 makes navigating applications and checking the notifications smooth, easy and intuitive.

This upbeat video emphasizes the Gear S2’s rotating bezel and its circular UX, navigating through the music, S Health and notification features, which are represented by a group of core performers. A mix of choreography, projections and unexpected props makes every scene of this video unique.

The “Human Kaleidoscope” production features a diverse cast of over 150 performers that includes musicians, athletes and dancers who enact a variety of common actions. They are all choreographed together for one epic performance, captured live on camera. This represents Samsung’s playful, fun side, showing the human personification of the Gear S2, put to energetic music.

Shot in large from an aerial perspective, the performers truly encapsulate the power of the circle, a symbol of unity, wholeness and timelessness. By setting up a projector and camera to hover 70 inches above the ground, the full scale of the production could be captured.

The innovative design and functionality of the newest Samsung smartwatch, along with Samsung’s extensive list of partners and apps for the Gear S2, make it perfect for organization and productivity. But the Gear S2 is not just for discreetly checking notifications and responding to messages during meetings. The Gear S2 is perfect for music lovers, fitness enthusiasts, social networkers and anyone with a creative and active lifestyle.

Before the digital age, business transactions and communication relied heavily on direct personal contact. But as technology has progressed in recent years, there has been a rapid shift in how professionals carry out business. We’ve gone from desktop computers to portable laptops, then to cell phones with primitive Internet capabilities, on to revolutionary smartphones, tablets and now smart watches and other wearables. Today, the ability to connect instantly and carry out tasks easily via electronic devices is making work environments more efficient than ever, and is redefining the very concept of the workplace.

The smartphone in particular, being both more portable and flexible than traditional office equipment, has evolved from a communication device to a mobile office, and has spurred a number of business trends. “BYOD” (Bring Your Own Device) is one that has become widely incorporated in workplaces throughout the world. With the ability to use their personal mobile devices for business activities, employees are able to experience an improved work-life balance and enhanced productivity.

To this end, Samsung remains committed to meeting the needs and demands of business professionals to create products that allow for superior organization, security, productivity, time management and, above all, connection. Its newest products—the Galaxy S6 edge+, the Galaxy Note5, the Galaxy Tab S2 and the Gear S2—come equipped with tools and solutions that reflect this commitment.

The Galaxy S6 edge+ and Note5: BYOD Devices that Work for You

The Galaxy S6 edge+ and the Galaxy Note5 were designed for optimized productivity and performance. Preloaded with a suite of Microsoft Office apps, a Cisco WebEx video conferencing app, free storage on OneDrive (100GB for 2 years) and refined Exchange ActiveSync (EAS)—a communications protocol designed for the synchronization of email, contacts, calendar, tasks and notes—the devices enable a completely portable working experience that ensures continuity, whether in the office or on a business trip across the world.

In addition to upgraded productivity features, the large, 5.7-inch screens of both the Galaxy S6 edge+ and Note5 provide the ideal amount of screen real estate to create presentations, edit documents and utilize business applications easily and comfortably. This is complemented by the devices’ intuitive touch interfaces and convenient input tools, such as the QWERTY Keyboard Cover and the highly precise S Pen (available on the Galaxy Note5), which eliminate the need for bulky, heavy terminals.

But even the most useful and efficient device doesn’t amount to much if it cannot keep up with one’s hectic work schedule. With fast processing and 4GB RAM, the Galaxy S6 edge+ and Note5 ensure swift application launch and multi-tasking while fast charging and power saving features keep the devices powered from early morning meetings through evening presentations. And when those presentations require the utilization of additional devices, SideSync 4.0 seamlessly connects the Galaxy smartphones to a PC or tablet to allow for drag-and-drop file sharing.

KNOX: Security and Privacy

As personal communication devices like the Galaxy S6 edge+ and Note5 continue to become a main component of business culture, more and more pressure is being placed on IT to manage and secure devices and data. As such, the defense-grade security of Samsung KNOX provides multi-layer protection to keep data safe from the moment one’s device is powered on.

Users can even keep work and personal data separate, ensuring that corporate information and resources can only be accessed by authorized personnel. KNOX offers enterprise users management tools, KNOX workspace and utilities which include on-device encryption. Furthermore, the security solution provides a vital competitive edge in a regulated industry, with Mobile Device Management (MDM) integration for easy incorporation with more than 120 MDM partners.

Keeping Tabs on Workplace Mobility

While smartphones are becoming a major component of the on-the-go approach, tablets are playing an increasingly critical role at work, especially for those who travel frequently. Gone are the days of lugging heavy laptops, stacks of paper and large charts to business meetings. Now, tablets make it easier to give presentations and showcase slideshows.

The Galaxy Tab S2, the world’s slimmest and lightest tablet, is setting a new standard in this market with its best-in-class productivity features, scalable memory with micro SD and optimized viewing features. Incorporating a 4:3 screen ratio and a Super AMOLED screen, the tablet enhances document viewing and writing, as well as on-the-go reading. As such, its preloaded Microsoft Office apps allow for a consistent office experience without the need of a PC.

And for those more accustomed to using a keyboard, the Bluetooth-enabled Keyboard Cover is ergonomically designed for faster and easier typing, and can be protected, stored and toted with the tablet inside the stylish Galaxy Tab S2 Book Cover. Moreover, enhanced file management and expandable storage up to 128GB secured by improved KNOX-based fingerprint recognition technology ensures that enterprises and users receive the highest standards of productivity and security.

The Next Level of Mobility

Like smartphones and tablets, wearables enable employees to reduce their dependence on clunky devices, communicate with minimal interference and get around more freely without feeling disconnected.

The Samsung Gear S2 allows users to conveniently access their email, make phone calls, set reminders, glance at their schedule and check notifications right from their wrist via an intuitive interface, rotating bezel and stand-alone connectivity (Wi-Fi or LTE). Also, users can discreetly check and respond to texts and emails with pre-set messages or the touch screen keyboard. Furthermore, wireless charging capabilities and a battery life that typically lasts two to three days ensure that the Gear S2 keeps you connected and on time … all the time.

While the workplace continues to transform into one that is as mobile as employees themselves, Samsung’s range of mobile devices and solutions will make staying productive, connected and protected as easy as the swipe of a screen.

Samsung Electronics, a global leader and award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, semiconductors and telecommunications, today announced that it won 38 prestigious International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2016 Innovation Awards. The Consumer Technology Association (CTA), the producer of CES 2016 – the global gathering place for all who thrive on the business of consumer technologies, who has been recognizing achievements in product design and engineering since 1976, has honored Samsung with one more Best of Innovation Award this year than last year.

Among Samsung’s 38 CES 2016 Innovation Awards are three Best of Innovation Awards. Products entered in the CES Innovation program are judged by a pre-eminent panel of independent industrial designers, engineers and members of the trade media to honor outstanding design and engineering in cutting-edge consumer electronics products across 27 categories.

“Samsung continues to deliver unique experiences for our consumers worldwide through the many products that help people lead more connected lives,” said Gregory Lee, president and CEO of Samsung Electronics North America. “We are honored that CTA and the industry recognizes our ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in consumer experience as we look forward to demonstrating our latest achievements at the 2016 International Consumer Electronics Show.”

Samsung’s award-winning products span 18 categories including, TV, Monitor, Mobile, Tablet, Digital Imaging, Wearable, Home Appliance and Memory. Many of Samsung’s award-winning products will be on display at CES 2016, which runs January 6-9, 2016, in Samsung booth #11906 in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Some of the winning products will be showcased at Samsung’s CES press conference, scheduled for 2 p.m. on Tuesday January 5, 2016.

Following are details on some of Samsung’s award-winning products:

Samsung Gear S2 – A completely re-designed smartwatch that centers on an intuitive circular design with a rotating bezel that allows users to easily and precisely navigate the UI with the turn of a dial. The Gear S2 provides at-a-glance notifications to check calendars, e-mails, send texts and more.

Galaxy S6 edge+ – With an immersive, 5.7-inch dual-edge display, the Galaxy S6 edge+ breaks conventional smartphone design and delivers industry leading features, including Samsung’s most advanced camera for high quality photos and videos, fast wireless and wired charging, powerful processor and Samsung Pay.

Samsung Galaxy View – Re-imagining mobile entertainment, the Galaxy View provides a movable, touchable, immersive TV experience. With a unique, video-centric user interface, the Galaxy View makes it easy to access and enjoy streaming content, interactive video games, books and other digital content.

Samsung Gear VR – Powered by Oculus, the Gear VR is compatible the Samsung Galaxy Note5, Galaxy S6 edge+, Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge, leveraging each device’s Quad HD Super AMOLED display to provide the color, clarity and performance needed for an amazing virtual reality experience.

ATIV Book 9 Pro – Offering a stunning 4K display, cutting-edge performance from its Intel Core i7® processor, and magnificent quad speakers, this laptop is ideal for professionals and multimedia enthusiasts alike.

Samsung 950 PRO 512GB – This solid state drive (SSD), the first Non-Volatile Memory Express (NVMe) M.2 form factor SSD with vertical NAND (V-NAND) technology, is designed to meet the demands of high-performance consumer and business PCs and laptops. Ideal for projects such as computer-aided design, data analysis and engineering simulation, the 950 PRO provides users with cutting-edge performance, higher bandwidth and lower latency from their workstations, even under intensive workloads.

Samsung 850 PRO 2TB – As the world’s first 2 terabyte consumer SSD, the Samsung 850 PRO 2TB is a high-performance, high-density storage device that delivers rapid data access times and program load times, as well as industry-leading power efficiency. With V-NAND technology at its core, the 850 PRO 2TB yields excellent reliability and superior performance throughout its lifetime.

Samsung SleepSense Sleep Monitor – The Bluetooth and IoT-enabled Samsung SleepSense device uses a complex set of sensors in a smart, innovative, and simple way to track and provide information on your sleep habits and deliver personalized expert tips directly to consumers’ smartphones to help you take control of the most important aspects of health and wellness: how well we sleep.

Samsung 128GB UFS – As the first mobile memory based on the much-anticipated Universal Flash Storage (UFS) 2.0 standard, this ultra-fast package is the highest capacity, highest performing, thinnest and smallest embedded storage memory for mobile devices. It allows for quick access to pictures from 20MP+ cameras and to 4K video files, as well as embracing 5G connectivity and delivering shorter application loading and response times.

Samsung 12Gb LPDDR4 – The world’s highest density mobile DRAM chip allows for packages of up to 6GB, delivering 34.1GB/s bandwidth – three times as fast as the industry’s previous highest performing mobile DRAM. The chip can accommodate the real-time multitasking scenarios of today’s flagship smartphones and tablets having UHD displays, while providing 50% greater power efficiency and the optimal density for new high-end 64bit-system smartphones.

The more and more that smart devices can do, the more important it is to make sure your device is functioning at its best. This means preserving the battery life, but also managing storage and RAM and keeping everything safe from security threats.

In the beginning of the year, Samsung introduced the Smart Manager, which helps users scan and optimize their smartphone, all at once. Available since the launch of the Galaxy S6 and S6 edge, the performance of Smart Manager and the devices that support it has been improving. The Galaxy S6 edge+ and Note5 come preloaded with improved battery usage, including app optimization, and security features.

Opening the Smart Manager app shows its four main components: Battery, Storage, RAM and Security. You can view and optimize your device through closing running apps and uninstalling unnecessary apps. The Security menu scans your phone for malware and other security threats. My Knox is also available to download for even more security. To boost your device’s speed and performance in a single click, use “Clean All.”

Long Live Your Battery

Smartphone users don’t always realize they can remove apps which are infrequently or never used. Sometimes apps are running in the background, consuming battery power. After selecting Battery within the Smart Manager, users can prevent wasting battery power through “App Optimization.”

For each app, users can choose between “Always Optimizing,” “Automatically Optimizing” or “Disable For.” “Always Optimizing” stops the app from using battery power. You can also select how often the apps will be optimized (every 3, 5 or 7 days). If you choose the “Automatically Optimizing” for every 3 days, the app will stop using battery power from the last usage for three days. Once the app is set for “Disable For,” you will stop receiving alerts from the app. If you don’t want to miss notifications from instant messaging apps, it’s best not to select “Disable For.”

The Battery screen also displays the percentage of remaining battery power and how long it is expected to last. By selecting Battery Usage, you can view the processes that have been running since your last full charge. Power Saving Mode and Ultra Power Saving Mode also display expected length of battery life if you need to conserve battery power. To view battery consumption of each application, select Detail.

Clean Up

To free up storage space from temporarily stored files, Smart Manager automatically scans and deletes any unnecessary data. After opening the Smart Manager app, select Storage. You can see how much of your available storage has been used. The Details button at the top of the screen shows more information about your device’s total space, available space, system memory, used space, cache data and miscellaneous files.

You can also manually delete data stored on your device. Users can check the current storage status by selecting “User Data” within the Storage menu. This displays how much space each type of files is using. If you choose the applications, you can find which apps are used more frequently. Viewing by frequency of use makes it easy to disable or uninstall unnecessary applications.

RAM

RAM is where temporary files are stored when your device runs an application. Clearing the RAM on your device will improve your device’s performance, freeing space so your device can run faster.

The RAM screen displays the percentage of used RAM, the active applications and how much RAM they are currently using. You can see how many background apps are currently using RAM space, so it helps you choose which applications to close. You can also select “End All”.

Protect Yourself

It’s possible for users to install apps or viruses unknowingly. This could lead to a breach of personal information or damage of the device. In less extreme cases, the unauthorized apps could slow down the device performance or use too much battery power.

Smart Manager automatically scans for malicious software, apps that use unusually high amounts of battery power, apps that make unusual errors and provide solutions for these issues. Users can ensure comfort and security by removing or closing unwanted apps. Samsung devices with Smart Manager provide anti-malware solutions through a partnership with Intel Security.

Take Control

With Smart Manager, Galaxy smartphone users can feel reassured that their devices are safe and secure, and running optimally. By having access to usage, storage, memory and security data, users can take matters into their own hands to know that they have a safe and comfortable space to work and play. Smart Manager is currently available for the S6, S6 edge, S6 edge+, S5, S4, Note5, Note4 and Note3, and the available devices will be expanded.

*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.

Halloween is nearly upon us, that spooky fall time for dressing up in crazy costumes, carving pumpkins and celebrating ghosts, witches and all the creepy creatures of the night. One of the most popular activities is trick or treating, what kids go door-to-door collecting tasty treats from their neighbors.

With that tradition in mind, here is a collection of tricks and treats for your Samsung mobile devices that you might find … bewitching.

Galaxy Note5

Trick: A screen that’s on, even when it’s off

From the moment you eject the S Pen from the Galaxy Note5, you know you’re getting a totally different mobile experience. The S Pen is more versatile and useful than ever, with a truly natural writing feel and an array of fun, smart features, like Action Memo, Smart Select and Screen Write. Air View even lets you preview content without touching the screen, just by hovering the S Pen above the display. But one of the most useful new features on the Galaxy Note5 is the ability to write notes on the screen even when the screen has not been turned on. Screen Off Memo fires up automatically whenever you deploy the S Pen and the screen is off, giving you the ability to write directly on the darkened display and then save your message. It’s a ghostly good trick.

Treat: Customize your Air Command

The defining aspect of the Galaxy Note5 is its S Pen, which gives users unprecedented functionality and control over their content. Popping the S Pen out from the phone automatically brings up the Air Command menu, where you can take a memo, select images or write right on the screen. But you can also change up to three of the Air Command slots, choosing the apps that are just right for you. Your favorite web browser, a calculator, navigator or whatever you use the most and want right at your fingertips. It’s a treat that will have you howling at the moon.

Galaxy S6 edge+

Trick: Reduce screen size and one-handed mode

People love the 5.7-inch Super AMOLED screens of the Galaxy S6 edge+ and Galaxy Note5, both of which are bright and big, great for using all sorts of media. But sometimes that much screen space can be too much, which is why they also offer a reduced screen mode. Just tap the Home button three times quickly, and the entire screen shrinks down to a smaller size. You can even choose whether you want that screen to be on the left side or the right side of the phone. It’s a fiendishly useful trick.

Treat: Information stream

Sometimes you need to stay on top of some breaking news or information—the latest headlines, sports scores, or financial information—but you are in a meeting or other event and don’t want to be conspicuous about checking. Fortunately, the Galaxy S6 edge+ has Information stream, which allows you to keep updates along the phone’s signature curved edge, without turning on the main screen. Select different feeds and get instant news, whatever you like, then the edge will light up with your stream, while the main screen stays dark as night.

Gear S2

Trick: Better battery control

The Gear S2 has a powerful battery than can last a couple of days on a single charge (depending on how you use it, of course). But sometimes you can get caught without a charges and with power running low. Which is why the Gear S2 offers a Power saving mode, to help your device last a while longer. Just choose the Settings function and scroll down the Power saving. The Gear S2 will switch to greyscale home screen and disable most special functions. That way, if you use a lot of apps during the day, it won’t come back to haunt you.

Treat: S Health

The Gear S2 is a great looking, stylish wearable, but with health-related apps like S Health, it can also help you take care of yourself. With S Health, the Gear S2 automatically tracks activity—or inactivity. Anytime you’re moving around, the Gear S2 knows it and sends encouraging messages. Or if you are sitting still at your desk for too long, it will suggest maybe it’s time to stand up, stretch your bones and get the blood pumping.

And unlike other dieting and fitness apps, S Health is incredibly easy to set up and personalize on your Gear S2. Just follow these tutorials and you’ll be on track to being a healthier you in no time. To begin, open the S Health app from the apps menu on the Gear S2.

How To Track Your Movement

They say variety is the spice of life, and this also rings true when speaking of a fitness regimen. As such, the Gear S2 allows you to manually log fitness activity by type of exercise to allow for more accurate activity tracking.

1. Rotate the bezel until you reach the Exercise screen within the S Health app.
2. Tap the arrow.
3. Select your desired exercise. (For example, tap Walking.)
4. To use location-based services, tap Accept.
5. Touch the target time to adjust it, or rotate the bezel to the right to choose a distance or calorie target—or no target. (For example, rotate the bezel to the right to the distance option.)
6. Tap START.
7. You can review your stats while you exercise. To pause your workout, touch the screen. (Note: Swipe to the right to see Music or Duration, or swipe to the left to see Calories, Speed and Heart Rate.)
8. Tap FINISH.
9. To end the workout, tap the Stop icon.

How To Step to It

Walking may be the easiest way to get exercise into one’s daily routine. Just about anyone can do it. You don’t need lessons or expensive equipment. Though one complementary tool that is particularly useful, not to mention motivational, is a pedometer. Studies have shown that the combination of this step-counting tool and a personal target step goal is particularly effective.

1. In the S Health app, turn the bezel to the Settings menu and tap Settings.
2. Rotate the bezel to the right and tap Step target.
3. Rotate the bezel to set your daily step target.
4. Touch SET.
5. Press the Back button twice, then turn the bezel left to the Steps menu. It will display the number of steps you’ve walked for the day out of your daily target.
6. Tap the number and turn the bezel left to review your steps history.

How To Rock the Beat (Your Heart Beat, That Is)

For overall cardiovascular health in adults, the World Health Organization recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity—exercise that increases your heart rate and breathing—per week. One way to monitor the intensity of your activity is to check your heart rate against the estimated maximum heart rate for your age. The Gear S2’s heart rate monitor lets you quickly check and track yours before, during and after exercise.

1. Turn the bezel to the right until you reach the Heart rate monitor.
2. Tap the monitor icon to start the heart rate monitor. The built-in sensor on the back of the device measures your heart rate.
3. Record your heart rate by selecting a tag that describes your current state. (For example, Resting or After exercise.)
4. To view heart rate history, press the Back button. Then, tap the center of the Heart rate screen. Turn the bezel to navigate recorded history.

How To Stay Hydrated

Proper water consumption is essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Not drinking enough water can lower your physical and mental performance, and lead to dehydration. Likewise, too much caffeine can cause a variety of health issues, from hypertension and dizziness to anxiety and agitation. As such, monitoring your daily intake of both water and caffeine is of the upmost importance and S Health makes the process considerably more convenient.

1. Turn the bezel until you reach the screen with the water glass or coffee mug icons.
2. Tap the plus sign to track the number of glasses of water or cups of caffeinated beverages you consume.
3. To review your water and caffeine intake, tap and hold down the icon. Turn the bezel to the left to review intake history.

How To Keep Track

When the Gear S2 recognizes that you’ve been moving for a particular amount of time, it will automatically track your increased activity as exercise and encourage you to keep it up with motivational messages. Similarly, it will notify you if you’ve been sedentary for too long and will encourage you to keep moving. In addition to this helpful feature, you can also manually track your exercise by type and time and review your activity levels for the past 24 hours.

1. Turn the bezel to the 24 hour activity screen.
2. Tap the center to see your current activity level. Tap again to see how long you’ve been at that activity level.
3. Then, rotate the bezel to the left to review activity levels for the past 24 hours, along with the amount of time you exercised, the type of exercise and your heart rate based on your input measurements.

*S Health is not intended for clinical or medical use, including diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, alleviation, compensation, cure, prevention or mitigation of any disease, ailment, defect, injury or other conditions.

Now, with the release of the Gear S2, which is earning widespread praise for its elegant design and innovative rotating bezel UX, Samsung is introducing the Gear S2 Experience app. Available in three languages—English, Chinese and Korean—the Gear S2 Experience app lets anyone, anywhere, check out the wearable device’s unique design and UX. It’s a hands-on feel, even when you cannot get your hands on a Gear S2 in real life.

Here’s a look at the five main features of the Gear S2 Experience app, and how they can help you get to feel for the Gear S2 and its special features.

Aesthetic and Elegant Design

If you’re going to wear a wearable, you need the device to look stylish. Calling up this option brings up a Stylish Smart Gear screen, which provides more details about the Gear S2’s sleek, fashionable design—a durable, stainless steel body that fits your wrist just right. Clicking “Experience” then brings up a Gear S2 that you can check out in 360 degrees. Get an immersive, complete view of the Gear S2 in three style, dark gray and silver for the Gear S2, and the black of the Gear S2 classic. It’s a convenient way of getting to know the Gear S2’s harmonious combination of technology and design.

Intuitive Experience

One of the most defining parts of the Gear S2 is its rotating bezel UX that controls many of the device’s functions. It’s a unique and intuitive way of using a smartwatch, and the Gear S2 Experience app gives you a good taste for what that experience is really like.

Once again, after you select this feature, select “Experience” to bring up the simulator. There, the app guides you in how to rotate the bezel to achieve various effects. First it guides you in moving the bezel to the left and right, followed by rotating to scroll vertically, select options or to control volume.

Healthier Lifestyle

The Gear S2 Experience app also shows how health-related features are integrated into the device. You can try out how the Gear S2’s Auto Tracking detects your movements, exercise and heart rate automatically. Or pretend to go for a run on the treadmill, selecting the jogging feature and then taking several strides in a mini-run.

You can also try out the various Healthy Clock faces, like Activity sparkles (they shine as your move more), Activity bubbles (the circles grow as you exercise), Pixel Heart (a heart shape changes color depending on your heart rate) and Heart Wave (measures maximum, minimum and average heart rates).

Convenience & More

This field lets you explore a wide range of the Gear S2’s other functions, like notifications, Samsung Pay and accessories. Notifications lets you try out checking your messages and sending preset replies, leaving voice messages and more. Samsung Pay lets you try out the tap & pay system that makes Samsung Pay so convenient. And Additional Features gives you a rundown of the Gear S2’s many other functions, like 3G connectivity, wireless charging and compatibility with other Android devices (running 4.4O/S or higher, with at least 1.5GB of RAM).

Try On

Throughout your use of the Gear S2 Experience app, you are given many opportunities to wear a Gear S2 virtually, using Try On. Once again, you begin by pressing “Experience.” Then you choose a watch face (dark gray or silver for the Gear S2 or black for the Gear S2 classic), followed by one of 16 watch faces. Once you’ve picked your combination, you select “Try On”, where you can use your camera to take a picture of your customized Gear S2 on your arm, and share the photo with friends using your choice of email, social media or other apps.

All told, the Gear S2 Experience app is a great way to get a deeper sense of what Samsung’s latest wearable is all about. Nothing compares to the real thing, but the Gear S2 Experience app comes pretty close. You can download the English version of the Gear S2 Experience app at the Galaxy Apps store or Google Play.

September’s IFA brought the unveiling of the Gear S2. Samsung has been emphasizing personalization of devices with collaborations with to offer the best in accessories. For its Gear S2, the accessory lineup includes a wide range of wristbands. In addition to offering ultimate control of watch faces and apps, Samsung has partnered with seven different companies, and is currently preparing a multitude of colorful straps to be released.

The Gear S2 comes full circle with a durable stainless steel body, a watch face protected by Gorilla Glass 3 and watch bands that are so easy to change, users can match any outfit or mood. The leather band of the Gear S2 classic is also compatible with any standard 20mm watch band.

Collaborating to Offer More

Samsung has partnered with seven companies to bring colorful options for watch bands that will show off your personal style, match your outfit or reflect your mood. The seven featured collaborations include Casetify, iTFit, Incipio, CTF, Case Mate, Monowear and SLG Design (also known as TheSom).

With the release of the Gear S2, the Gear S2 classic and all the ways to personalize both devices, Samsung continues to lead the global standard in wearable technology and design. Life gets better with every turn.

Samsung Electronics’ exciting new wearable device, the Samsung Gear S2, has introduced unprecedented style and functionality, with its rotating bezel and revolutionary UX (User eXperience) interface.

But a great device needs more than just design and technology. Partners and apps are vital aspects to creating a device that maximizes usability and functionality—and the Gear S2 has put together a strong list of partners that take it to the next level.

From early on, Samsung emphasized the importance of its partners, as seen in the early announcement of the Software Development Kit (SDK) for the Gear S2. Usually, an SDK is released after a new product announcement, but for the Gear S2, early access was provided back in April, months before the device was unveiled at IFA in Berlin in September.

“We made sure to put in as much time as needed to optimize the applications for the new circular design and UX,” said Joohyung Jeong of Product Planning Team of IT & Mobile Communications Business division. “We wanted to offer a great variety of useful applications to the users at the time of launch, which was made possible with the early announcement of the SDK.”

Because of the Gear S2’s unique, rotating bezel and a circular display, Samsung’s partners were eager to create apps for the smartwatch. The new wearable shape meant all the apps had to be redesigned, and Samsung provided all the design resources needed by our partners. But, in fact, optimizing apps for the rotating bezel turned out to be easier and more intuitive than the touch menus used by many wearables. It was also more convenient creating messaging services and notifications using the new interface.

The other thing which makes the Gear S2 so special is Samsung introduces special watch faces with many partners besides a customized app. These watch faces provide important information depending on your needs. You can check the latest trends on Twitter, or see stock updates on Bloomberg, or sports scores on ESPN.

With hundreds of apps available for the Gear S2 already, let’s take a look at eight of the most popular, for making people’s lives easier and more empowered.

Nike+ Running

With Nike + Running, you can keep track of your jogging regime, including how far you went, the pace and for how long you were running. Nike + Running can help organize and motivate you to make your fitness goals and live healthier.

Twitter Trends

Twitter comes to your wearable, bringing all the trending topics, fun tweets and conversations, and hottest news from around the world.

Line

The popular and free messaging app Line is also available for the Gear S2. In addition to being fast and easy-to-use, Line comes with an array of cute cartoon characters you can use as the face for your Gear S2.

Yelp for Gear

As a wearable device, the Gear S2 is designed for people on the go. And one of the most popular apps for people on the go is Yelp, the review site that rates just about everything in the world around you, like restaurants, flights, coffee shops, and stores.

Volkswagen

Whether it’s called Car-Net (in the United States) or e-Remote (in Europe), the Volkswagen app gives you access to your car, no matter how close or far you may be. You can check to see if the doors are locked, start the air-conditioning before you get to your car or stop it from charging (if it’s an electric car).

SmartThings

SmartThings turns your home into an IoT Smart Home, and the SmartThings app lets you check on your home from wherever you are. Are your doors closed? Are the lights on? Do you want your home to get ready for your arrival, based on any preset routine you like? The SmartThings app can do all that and more.

Kevo by UniKey

Kevo is the smartlock security system that puts the safety of your home right onto your mobile devices. No more fumbling with keys, now your Gear S2 can lock and unlock your doors. Kevo can send eKeys to anyone else, family or guests, so your family is safe, and you have maximum control over your own home.

Voxer

A messaging platform for sending voice messages, texts, photos, and videos. But what makes Voxer different is that you can also send audio live, like a walkie talkie, to instantly communicate with your friends and contacts.

And that’s just the start. Just as partners in Korea have prepared a special transportation app, with which users can simply tag their Gear S2 on the card readers at the gates of the subway and bus stations, many different specialized apps will be introduced to fit the needs of the local consumers.

Everybody has got to eat. We do it multiple times every day, year in and year out. So why are so many of us so bad at it? We pick the hamburger when we know we should be eating vegetables; we lose track of how much junk food we’ve eaten in the day; and we drink caffeine, even when it is later in the day and we should be thinking about our sleep.

But thanks to the rise of wearables and food-related apps, at last we are gaining better options for keeping track of our health and eating habits. We no longer have to rely on vague estimates and hazy recollections; now we can track what we eat as we go—and, just as importantly, what we should be eating.

Keeping Records of What We Consume

The first step in improving what we eat is knowing what we eat. And tracking our food intake is an area where devices like the Gear S2—along with Samsung’s signature smartphones, the Galaxy S6 edge+ and Galaxy Note5—excel.

Using apps like S Health, we can keep track of everything we eat and drink during the day. No more fooling ourselves by underestimating how many treats we eat or how few calories they contained. Now each day’s calorie count and nutritional profile can be easily and clearly calculated and tracked. And the Gear S2 even has a function for tracking our caffeine and water drinking, to make sure you’re getting enough of the latter and not too much of the former.

Sensors Understand Your Body

People have different levels of health. Some of us are in great shape and exercise all the time, while others struggle to find the time or willpower to exercise much at all. Some people need a lot of sleep, but other people seem to do just fine with just a few hours. If we can fully understand our bodies, our ability to maintain our health would improve a lot.

Fortunately, the Gear S2 has built-in sensors that can keep track of your body throughout the day. Heart rate is measured around the clock by the wearable, so we can know, minute by minute, what is happening to our bodies. This can then affect our diet—if your energy is flagging, maybe you take some time to stretch your legs and walk around, or have a healthy snack. (Of course, always check with your doctor first for all health advice).

Personalizing Your Diet

Too often, nutritional advice comes in a one-size-fits-all format, like people were all the same. But we aren’t the same. Some people are vegetarian or vegan, while others are focused on avoiding gluten or carbs in general. Some people need to avoid sodium or foods high in cholesterol or fat, and need to be careful about what they eat.

This is another area where technology can be a huge help. Not sure what’s in a certain dish? Your smartphone makes it easy to look up the ingredients online. More and more food companies are providing ever better data about the nutrients in their dishes, so details about calories, ingredients and more are available at our fingertips.

And in many locations (Korea, the United States and the United Kingdom), S Health can even offer health tips based on personalized user interests.

Setting the Table

Making the Gear S2 more effective is the large ecosystem of partner companies that make health apps for the device—many of which are integrated with S Health. There is a wide range of products available at the Galaxy App store, specializing in calorie counting, tracking carbs, diabetes-related health checking and more. And more food apps are continually appearing, giving people ever more options.

Food for Thought

From the individual level to society as a whole, food culture is undergoing major changes, and Samsung Electronics’ latest mobile devices and their health-related apps are a major part of that transformation. When it comes to health, living better begins with a better understanding of what we eat, and these apps provide all sorts of food-related help, just right for each person’s needs. As always, these benefits are the sort of innovations that come from Samsung’s relentless focus on meeting the needs of consumers.

One month after Samsung Electronics announced its latest smartwatch at the IFA, the Samsung Gear S2 became available for purchase on October 2 in the United States, Germany, Singapore and Korea

Sporting a full circle display and unique rotating bezel, the Gear S2 offers unprecedented convenience and style in a powerful wearable device. That rotating bezel serves as the main control for the UX—along with Home and Back buttons on the side—giving you a new, fun and intuitive way of accessing the Gear S2, without your fingers getting in the way of the screen. Now you can control your smartwatch with just a simple turn, rotating the bezel to choose apps, check messages and customize the Gear S2.

Just 11.4 millimeters thin, with a crystal-clear 1.2-inch Super AMOLED display, the Gear S2 looks stylish and elegant, in a form that’s just right for you. And with hundreds of watch faces available for downloading and dozens of fashionable watch bands, you can customize their Gear S2 so it matches your unique style.

The Gear S2 comes in two options, the Gear S2 and Gear S2 classic, giving you more choices to find the style that’s right for you. The classic has a timeless design, with a black finish and matching leather band, while the Gear S2 is great for people on the go, looking for a more minimal and modern style.

With 4GB of memory and a dual core 1GHz processor, the Gear S2 has the power to do more, which helps you do more. All Gear S2s come with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, plus a 3G option is also available so the Gear S2 can be used without being tethered to a smartphone. They also have NFC technology, giving them the capability of handling mobile payments and smart keys for the home and car.

The Gear S2 is also compatible with Android phones running on Android 4.4 or higher, with at least 1.5 GB of RAM. You can find all compatible Android smartphones here.

And take a look at a Gear S2 in action in this unboxing video:

The Gear S2 has made a big impression with its innovative design and functionality since it was unveiled at IFA 2015 in Berlin. The most noticeable differences are a circular display and rotating bezel that controls the UX (User eXperience), which has totally transformed how smartwatches are used, making them simpler and more intuitive.

So the big question is, how did Samsung’s designers develop such a new vision for the smartwatch? Let’s take an inside look at the design of the Gear S2 and Gear S2 classic, and how the designers created such an innovative device.

Getting the Right Fit

For the Gear S2 to fit everyone at every moment, Samsung’s designers realized that they needed to focus on two key elements: finding the optimum size for the display and a suitable wristband for everyone.

“The width and shape of people’s wrists are different based on a number of factors. But we were dedicated to developing a Gear S2 strap to fit everyone,” said Jaehyung Hong, Senior Designer.
Reducing the size to fit comfortably on the wrist, while maintaining the same highly advanced technologies found in smartphones, was not easy. After much brainstorming, research and trial and error, the designers finally found a solution. Though it required a more complicated assembly process, the space between the watch face and the wristband was reduced, resulting in a more comfortable fit.

A Revolutionary Bezel

One of the most signature aspects of the Gear S2 is the rotating bezel. Rotating bezels have been used before in analog watches, but chiefly with dive watches, which are most commonly used for timing events. But when Samsung applied that technology to the Gear S2, it was a revelation.

“As touch screens have spread to all electronic devices, people are gradually forgetting about the rotary feel of analog devices,” said Yongseok Bang, Principle Designer. “We used to control the volume of TV or audio, the heating level of the range, by turning a dial. We’ve tried to revive the analog feel with the Gear S2.”

Bang also noted that circular designs had been considered for many years, but it was not easy to provide a convenient user experience with the full circle design.

“The circle design offers less space to display information than a square design,” noted Eunjoo Kim, Principle Designer. “We needed to consider how to use the space more efficiently. Then we realized users can enjoy and control the full display without any interruption through a rotating bezel.”

Because the Gear S2 is operated by the rotating bezel, the UX is faster, easier and more accurate. Users can control the interface without blocking the screen with their fingers. Although the rotating bezel is used in timer-like bezels of analog wristwatches, it functions completely differently, so designers had to come up with a wholly new approach.

“For every movement of the bezel, we discussed which way the screen should move,” said Yusic Kim, Senior Designer. “The most difficult part of the Gear S2 UX design was that we had to invent something totally new. We had to let go of our past designs and practices.”

To adjusting a physically rotating bezel, Samsung designers had to more closely work together with engineers than ever before. “We had to consider things like how much force was necessary to rotate the bezel, how much rotation was to be regarded as one unit, how many fingers were required to rotate the bezel, and more,” said Eunjoo Kim.

A Watch That Fits Your Needs

The most-used features on smartwatches are usually related to health, communication and music. With the Gear S2 and the Gear S2 classic, these features are easier and more intuitive than ever. Activity is recorded automatically on a 24-hour activity log. Notifications can be accessed simply by raising your wrist and music is controlled by the bezel. The Gear S2 and the Gear S2 classic have improved even the most basic features.

The Gear S2 and the Gear S2 classic also feature Samsung Pay, ensuring safe and easy mobile payments and freedom from carrying a bulky wallet. Smart Key replaces old keys, offering secure keyless entry. With the Gear S2 and the Gear S2 classic, simply enjoy more and worry about less.

Built-in wireless charging was specially designed for the Gear S2 and Gear S2 classic. Thinking about user experiences, the design team imagined how users would take off their watches at the end of the day. The wireless charging dock is magnetic and works when users place their watches on the dock, just as they would put their watches on the nightstand.

Of course, all that functionality is only half the equation. Users also have to be able to wear it in style. And thanks to hundreds of customizable watch faces and a wide selection of watch bands, all users have the ability to create a Gear S2 that’s just right for them. The design team wanted to make the bezel as simple as possible, so that the users have the freedom to decorate their Gear S2.

“Wristwatches have long been widely loved fashion items and we want users to feel they can wear a new smartwatch every day,” said Yusic Kim. “Gear S2’s many additional apps will be appearing continually at Samsung Gear Apps, including unique watch faces.”

The Smartwatch Everyone’s Been Waiting For

Through hard work and determination, Samsung’s designers have redefined the limits of smartwatches, bridging the gap between analog wristwatches and wearables. Thanks to their vision and focus on the needs of users, the Gear S2 is a smartwatch that fits into consumers’ lives, naturally.

From left to right: Jaehyung Hong (Senior Designer), Yongseok Bang (Principal Designer), Eunjoo Kim (Principal Designer), and Yusic Kim (Senior Designer)

For Samsung Electronics, IFA 2015 in Berlin was all about the Internet of Things (IoT). And because the IoT is designed to encompass all aspects of our life, there’s an awful lot of great innovations and stylish devices that Samsung presented. Let’s take a look at 10 of the most notable and coolest things from this year’s IFA.

1. IoT Zone

To better explain the IoT, people don’t want to hear technology and numbers as much as they want to understand how the IoT will improve their lives, so Samsung put a creative IoT Zone at the heart of its IFA exhibit. With a series of 24 glass displays, created by architect and designer Ferruccio Laviani to resemble the pages of a popup book, the IoT Zone was a friendly and intuitive way to show people the infinite possibilities of the Internet of Things.

Read more:

Samsung’s Internet of Thing Enters Our Lives

Samsung Electronics Talks the Future of TV

2. SleepSense

One new product that really woke up visitors was SleepSense, a sensor and sleep analysis system that tracks your sleep patterns and suggests changes to improve your sleep. Just a small, thin pad, SleepSense slips under your mattress, where it can track your breathing, pulse and other traits more accurately than anything else on the market. SleepSense can also work together with consumer electronics in your home to adjust your lights and alarm, to wake you up gradually, when your body is at the best point in its sleep cycle.

3. Gear S2

Anticipation was high for Samsung’s latest wearable device, the Gear S2, but according to the people who attended the high-energy launch showcase on September 3, the Gear S2 surpassed all expectations. The round design was stylish and fashionable, and the rotating bezel was an intuitive innovation just right for maximizing the usefulness of a wearable. Available in two versions—the Gear S2 and Gear S2 classic—the device is incredibly customizable, with various watch faces and a wide range of colorful straps that can be easily swapped. And with the Gear S2 being Android-compatible, its promises to be the most versatile and functional wearable yet.

Read more:

[Infographic] Circular Design and Intuitive UX of Gear S2

The Future Gets a Twist at the Gear S2 Showcase

First Look: The Gear S2

Samsung Gear S2 Showcase: Better with Every Turn

4. SmartThings

At home, the SmartThings Hub can turn any home into a smart home, connecting all sorts of devices on an open platform. Now people can turn on the lights or change the temperature even when away from home, as well as get notifications about movement or potential problems (like smoke or leaks).

But the power of SmartThings goes beyond the home, too. In conjunction with cross-industry collaborators, SmartThings is connecting devices and people across industries, from retail to enterprise, and healthcare to transportation, thus growing an open IoT ecosystem across the world. For instance, BMW cars can now directly integrate you with your home while you are driving, giving you alerts right to your dashboard.

And thanks to the open platform SmartThings was built on, expect plenty more partnerships in the future. As Alex Hawkinson, the chief executive of SmartThings, said during the opening press conference on September 3, SmartThings is all about “peace of mind,” “flexibility” and “control.”

Read more:

SmartThings: Bringing Your Home to Life

5. Connected Car

The IoT goes beyond our homes, and one of the most important part of our lives is the car. Now Samsung is bringing the IoT there, too. With the Car Mode for Galaxy app, you can use your smartphone or other wearable device to take calls, listen to music, get directions and even have your text messages read to you, all without taking your eyes off the road or your hands from the wheel. It makes the driving experience much safer and more convenient.

And with Car-Net e-Remote with Volkswagen, you can use your new Gear S2 wearable to integrate with your car. Using your Gear S2, you can see where your car is parked, turn on the air conditioning on a hot day, even stop and start the battery charger for electric vehicles.

6. Virtual Reality Experiences

With Samsung’s virtual reality headset, the Gear VR, people can dive into content like never before. And this year, for the first time, Samsung took advantage of the Gear VR to create a new type of exhibition experience. At four locations around Berlin, anyone could take part in Experience Zones to see for themselves what Samsung’s IFA exhibit was like. And at Club des Chefs, the partnership with four world-renounced chefs, visitors were able to truly immerse themselves in the food and cooking experience.

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Read more:

Checking Out Samsung’s IFA Exhibit from Basecamp

[Video] Samsung Cine des Chefs Show at IFA 2015

Gastronomy Goes Virtual with the Samsung Club des Chefs

7. Curved – SUHD, UHD TVs

With 28 types of TVs, ranging from 32 inches to 105 inches, Samsung now has the right TV for every home, from the smallest apartment to the biggest home. The curved screens of the latest UHD and SUHD TVs are fashionable, too, fitting in with everyone’s home.

With UHD and SUHD TVs offering four times the resolution of traditional HD TVs, people are going to need content at that resolution, too, which is why Samsung is working with the UHD Alliance to create standards for the industry—and they say final certification is nearly ready. In the meantime, Samsung announced Gamefly, a streaming service that offers the latest and hottest games in UHD, as well as agreements with many partners to offer movies, TV shows and other content in the stunning, UHD format.

8. Customization

Behind all of Samsung’s innovations and creations is the dedication to making technology work for people and to fill their needs. With that in mind, this year’s IFA saw many collaborations with the fashion industry to customize people’s phones and wearable devices. In partnership with Montblanc, there was an artist tattooing leather cases by hand for Galaxy S6 edge+ phones. And Swarovski is offering glittering, crystal-covered cases for Samsung smartphones, too.

9. Smart Suit

Not only are Samsung’s devices growing more stylish and fashion-forward, but now fashion is increasingly growing more tech savvy. Samsung C&T brought four wearable outfits to IFA, including a suit that has an NFC tag in the wrist, allowing users to change their phone’s mode easily and discreetly, without ever taking it out of their pocket.

10. The Year of the Circle

The circle is nature’s perfect shape, without a beginning or an end. And at this year’s IFA, the circle turned up again and again in the designs and ideas of Samsung’s devices. The IoT Zone, at the heart of Samsung’s exhibit, was circular, with 24 displays arranged like the spokes of a wheel. The Wireless Audio 360 speakers are circular in shape, and their sound is likewise omnidirectional, coming from ring radiator technology.

But the biggest circle at this year’s IFA was undoubtedly the Gear S2 wearable. Not only is this Samsung’s first wearable in a stylish circular shape, but the round bezel actually rotates, serving as the key tool of the device’s interface.

Read more:

[Video] Dive into Samsung Exhibition at IFA 2015 with a Virtual Reality Tour

[Video] Samsung Gear S2 Showcase Highlights

[Infographic] Wireless Audio 360: 360 Sound. All Around You 

[Video] 5 Reasons to Pick Samsung’s New Wireless Audio 360 Speakers

In partnership with renowned Italian architect Ferruccio Laviani, Samsung’s IoT Zone showcases the infinite possibilities of the Internet of Things ecosystem at IFA 2015.

Samsung Electronics is showcasing everything about the Internet of Things (IoT) at IFA 2015 in Berlin, focusing on how IoT technologies are having a positive impact on our world.

The exhibition gives IFA visitors a first-hand experience with what we mean by the connected world. They will be able to touch and feel key Samsung products, to truly understand the huge potential of IoT technology.

The IoT Zone comes in a large, circular design at the center of Samsung’s IFA exhibition hall. It is a space that immerses visitors in a demonstration of how Samsung’s IoT technology can become part of everyday life.

Visitors can wander among twenty-four distinct glass showcases, highlighting four key Samsung products and solutions: Samsung SleepSense, Smart TV & Audio, Gear S2, and SmartThings. The benefits of these products and solutions naturally and intuitively show visitors the present and near-future potential for their lifestyles.

Samsung SleepSense

For Smart TVs and Audio system showcases, the television is like a “conductor” for the whole home entertainment system. The TV can recognize the programs being watched and suggest similar options. If someone chooses to watch a movie, the TV can dim the lighting, lower the blinds and shift the audio to movie mode to deliver a grander sound. The viewer doesn’t need to move from the sofa or even say anything.

Samsung Gear S2

With the Gear S2, users can enjoy a connected daily life like never before. The device can track all of your physical goals and progress in real-time – everything you need to know about your body is right there, just a glance away. People can pay for the bus or taxi with the Gear S2, and as they travel they can get real-time notifications from home about security and safety. And by synchronizing the Gear S2 with a smart home hub like SmartThings, they can also adjust their home temperature or lights precisely with just simple twist of the Gear S2’s rotating bezel, wherever they are.

SmartThings Products

SmartThings is the heart of Samsung’s IoT. It connects all the devices at home and even outside of the home on an open platform, available to all companies and developers. About 200 devices are already available for the SmartThings platform, including lighting, cameras, thermostats, locks and wearables. Again, this isn’t the future; it’s happening right now.

To create this IoT Zone, Samsung collaborated with renowned Italian architect Ferruccio Laviani. The round design of the zone represents infinite possibilities and the lack of boundaries like Samsung’s IoT. It also symbolises the convergence of technologies, showing the interplay between IoT technologies and their rapidly growing ecosystem.

“As the visitors move from one showcase to another, the possibilities of IoT unfold in front of them like the pages of a popup book, with each showcase conveying the key information,” said Laviani.

But Samsung’s exhibition doesn’t end there. Visitor can also experience IoT applied to real life. The IoT Zone is right beside an IoT lounge, with partners like BMW, Volkswagen and Samsung C&T.

At the BMW car, notifications from home get displayed on the dashboard, and the Samsung SmartThings smartphone app makes it possible to check the status of the car, and lock or unlock the car remotely. Furthermore, Samsung’s Car Mode for Galaxy app for Volkswagens allows drivers to take calls, choose and listen to a favorite playlist and get directions all by voice or simple touch. Visitors can also see how the Gear S2 can control many aspects of a Volkswagen remotely, such as the air conditioner and the battery level with the Volkswagen’s Car-Net e-Remote app.

Samsung C&T Fashion Division (formerly Cheil Industries) is showing off four wearables that integrate fashion, technology and human in form of clothing and accessories: Smart Suit, On Bag, Body Compass and Perfect Wallet. There is also “the humanfit”, which is the platform brand for wearables. It collaborates with Samsung C&T’s fashion brands to develop IT-integrated clothing, accessories and mobile fashion apps.

Finally, there are four product zones displaying Samsung’s cutting-edge and IoT-ready products. Visitors can try out smart shopping and smart office space, a virtual fitting room, mirror displays and transparent OLEDs display at the B2B product zone.

“This exhibition underscores what’s possible,” said Dr. Won Pyo Hong, President and Chief Marketing Officer at Samsung Electronics. “It shows Samsung’s view of the Internet of Things – as a world that’s centered around people, and that offers infinite possibilities because it will be rooted in our open IoT strategy.”

The showcase kicked off with a captivating presentation highlighting the features of the Gear S2, rooted in the natural perfection of the circle and designed to create an unprecedented level of style and functionality for wearable devices. Check out how exciting the showcase was with this video