JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, 17 October 2018 – In a digital world, there are moments you need to savour. Bringing the Samsung Galaxy Note9 home is one of them. When it comes to opening the box, you can be forgiven for lifting the Note9 up proudly, like the new born Simba on top of the cliff, in the Lion King. The Note9’s revolutionary features mesmerise you from the moment you set your eyes on its sleek and stylish design. The thought of the features you now own, like an all-day battery, a Bluetooth-enabled S Pen, Samsung’s most intelligent camera and unsurpassed storage features, make the moment even more sublime. The accessories that you can now add to it, brings the device even closer to the stuff of dreams.

“Yes, the Note9 has been designed with enhanced productivity in mind. It’s packed with an unsurpassed level of power and performance. However, great care has been taken in the design of accessories, to make the Note9 an even more immersive experience. After all, the smartphone is an integral part of the identity of the user and the Note9’s accessories had to reflect that,” says Justin Hume, Director: Integrated Mobility at Samsung South Africa.

You Can Definitely Judge A Note By Its Cover.

Note fans have many sophisticated options when it comes to their phone cover. The covers effortlessly balance form with function and are available in a range of colours. The colour palette complements the Note9’s own set of unique hues. The options give the user the freedom to fit a cover to their lifestyle.

Clear View Standing Cover

The Clear View Standing Cover holds your Note9 at three optimal angles, so you can choose the right position for taking selfies or watching a movie. Plus, you can take calls, check notifications and more, without having to open the cover.

LED View Cover

Smart, stylish, and protective, the LED View Cover uses expressive LED lights to notify you of calls and messages. You can also control and play music through the cover or put a different spin on caller ID by choosing from pre-set icons or customising your own. It even has a card pocket inside to keep your important cards nearby.

Leather Wallet Cover

Note fans can give their device a luxurious look and feel effortlessly. Made with genuine Italian calf leather, this exquisite Leather Wallet Cover has a microfiber lining to protect your phone, and an interior card pocket for added convenience.

Protective Standing Cover

Protecting your beloved Note9 is made even easier with the Protective Standing Cover. It has been drop-tested and granted a military grade rating. The stylish case also comes with a kickstand to hold your phone at a comfortable viewing angle, without obstructing the Infinity Display. And you can still use a wireless charger with the cover on.

Silicone Cover

Beyond soft and super smooth, the Silicone Cover adds a heightened feel and comfortable grip to your Note9. The soft material provides protection from impact while the microfiber lining cradles your phone, preventing wear and tear. With a range of colours to choose from, you can mix or match at will.

A Little Extra Goes A Long Way

Beyond the cover options, the Note9 has accessories that empower you to do so much more.

Wireless Charger Pad

In a fast-paced world, whose got time to fumble with cords. You can now get powered up without plugging in. It’s simple to fast charge your devices by putting them down on the Qi-certified Wireless Charger Pad, which conveniently works with all your Qi-compatible devices, so you can get back to 100% in no time.

Gear IconX

Another accessory that will be music to your ears is the Gear IconX. They’re more than wireless earbuds. They’re a portable music library, a fitness tracker, and even a personal coach. Whether standalone or connected to your Note9, you can listen to your playlists and podcasts, maximise your workouts, and log your progress. All this, without ever touching your phone.

DeX HDMi Cable

The DeX Cable makes life so much easier. It simply plugs into a PC to mirror your smartphone or to create a second screen on which to perform business tasks effortlessly. It’s more than just screen mirroring though, because it allows you to do anything you’d normally do on a desk-top.

“Ultimately, the Note9 is designed for the individual. And the various accessories ensure that the device is an extension of your life, in a way that’s uniquely you.” says Hume.

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, 21 May 2018 – Offering a cord-free, ergonomic design, standalone music playback, automatic activity tracking and a built-in Running Coach, Samsung’s Gear IconX earbuds were made for users who are constantly on the move and need a device that can keep up.

Released on April 10, the fitness-focused earbuds’ latest software update makes it even easier for users to maximise workouts – introducing new ways to customise the listening experience and streamlining how users fill the device with their favourite ‘pump-up’ tracks.

For example, the Gear IconX’s new Equaliser feature allows users to quickly and easily adjust their audio’s frequency to optimal levels by choosing from five finely tuned presets: Bass Boost, Soft, Dynamic, Clear and Treble Boost.

The enhanced Ambient Sound function, meanwhile, enables users to specify exactly how much ambient sound they would like the earbuds to let in.

Craige Fleischer, Vice President of Integrated Mobility for Samsung South Africa says, “This makes it easier for users to pay attention to sounds around them, which makes the function especially useful when running or cycling outdoors. When indoors, users may activate the earbuds’ new Voice Focus function, which amplifies the voices of those in their surroundings.”

The Gear IconX’s standalone music playback and 4GB of built-in storage allow users to get in the zone during workouts without being weighed down by their phone. The update’s new Wireless Transfer feature enhances this functionality by streamlining how users manage their earbuds’ music library – removing the need for cables and allowing users to wirelessly add multiple tracks at once.

Gear IconX users may download the update via the Samsung Gear app.

Changes for a more Consistent Brand Experience

Previous Samsung Wearable packages were great at portraying unique characteristics and strengths of different product categories, but had difficulty conveying the overarching impression of the brand. We analysed countless competitor products and interviewed package and retail experts to create an all-encompassing brand experience through the package. Through this process, we set our design goal of creating a packaging system that exudes the exhaustive aura of a brand and enhances the details of the overall experience that covers the journey from opening the package to holding the product in your hand.

Concept that Ties Categories Together

Precious

Even if you are purchasing a product for yourself, a nicely packaged product that feels like a gift offers a whole new level of precious sentiment. The Samsung Mobile Wearable package acts as its own salesman when displayed on a showcase. The ‘Precious’ concept reflects this idea and provides a modern interpretation of the ‘premium gift’ keyword. From the moment users open the upper box, they are greeted with a ‘Welcome Door’ that creates anticipation for what’s to come. Furthermore, the inbox items, such as the manual and cables, are neatly assembled to express delicate care toward users.

360° Consideration

“To attract human attention your packaging needs to achieve a fine balance between vibrancy, uniqueness and simplicity.” – Kate Nightingale, Consumer Psychologist and Founder of Style Psychology

The package is designed under the umbrella of the ‘360° Consideration’ concept, which organically connects different aspects of a package that each contain unique information. The design is systemically considerate of users and maintains a fine balance between text and images on all six sides of the box, which prevents an overload of information within a single element of the package. The compartments of the package flow seamlessly while also being exclusive, which enables the product to become a natural eye-catcher and an impressionable storyteller that tells a tale which goes beyond basic spec details.

Message that is Formed through Depth in Detail

A package can create a powerful message when all its elements, from materials to colour, font, photography, graphics, constitution, and more, form a harmonious and meticulously detailed ensemble. The Samsung Wearable package design enhances its consistency with depth in detail to more effectively communicate the product’s language to its users.

Attractive and Powerful Images

The product images used for the package were all taken in an authentic viewpoint that has the product facing to the front. The crisp and clean background that extends behind the product and the soft light that permeates into the product radiate a confident and modern impact. For products like the Gear Fit2 Pro, where it is important to properly show the band colour, the images are rotated so that users can properly see the colour of the band from the front of the package.

Systematic Transmission of Information

Key information such as product and brand names are always placed in the same location of the package, so that all categories maintain consistency. Additional information such as the USP, icons, and product descriptions were positioned in order of importance in areas that are easily seen by the user so that all information can be systemically and properly disclosed to the user.

Colour that Represents the Brand

The number of colours used in the package is limited to four colours, excluding the colours in the product image. The proportion of colours used is carefully determined by its purpose. The Premium Black colour that appears universally among Samsung brand products blankets the entire package. The Samsung Accent Blue, used as the Signature Accent, is applied minimally throughout the package – just enough to indicate the mood of the brand. White and light-grey are used for typography to immaculately organize product information.

Patterns that Capture the Sentiments of a Product

Patterns differ from product to product, so each pattern is designed to serve as a metaphor of the product’s specific qualities to evoke sentimental resonance. The Gear 360 features a photograph that boasts 360-degree photography, the Gear VR provides a multidimensional view, and the Gear Fit2 Pro shows an image that displays heart rate to exemplify the product.

Intuitive Icon Graphics

The Samsung Wearable package has been produced in two forms and two sizes, which upholds coherence of the brand when displayed. Even when the volume of the package must be larger to accommodate additional accessories, the z-axis of the package is enlarged instead of the x-axis or the y-axis so that the product is always displayed in a constant size when viewed from the front.

Most people understand the excitement of encountering the packing of a product they love. At times, the packaging of a product can induce a sensation that is as potent as, if not stronger, than the sensation that comes from the product itself. The purpose of packaging has transcended beyond its previous role of simply wrapping up or protecting the product, and has gained its own meaning. Rui Brits, Senior Manager of Product Marketing at Samsung South Africa say, “The Samsung Wearable package design has come to redefine the identity and role of the package.”

The Gear Sport features a built-in GPS and 5 ATM water resistance** to help users go beyond fitness to get the most out of their everyday activities. Adding to this are a suite of premium partnerships with Spotify, Under Armour and Speedo that enable practical fitness experiences, as well as an enhanced user interface that is easily navigated via the device’s minimalistic circular bezel.

With its sleek, ergonomic form that can be worn with a variety of 20mm straps and watchfaces, the Gear Sport is a stylish accessory for any occasion, whether hitting the gym or going out with friends.

Boasting a lightweight, cord-free design, the Gear IconX (2018) earbuds provide a secure and comfortable fit, making them perfect for active users who are constantly on the go. A built-in Running Coach, in-ear automatic activity tracking, hassle-free controls and standalone music playback capabilities with 4GB of internal storage take workouts to an entirely new level. Furthermore, an improved long-lasting battery ensures that users always have access to the features they need and music they love.

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* Devices will initially be available in a limited number of countries including South Korea, the US, Canada and select European markets, and will continue rolling out to additional markets in the weeks ahead. Availability dates may vary by retailer and market.

** The Gear Sport has a water resistance rating of 5 ATM (50 meters) under ISO standard 22810:2010 for wristwatches under defined conditions of pressure, time, velocity and temperature. This means that the device is safe to wear while walking in the rain or showering, and may be used for shallow-water activities such as swimming in a pool or the ocean. However, it should not be used for scuba diving, waterskiing or other activities involving sudden temperature changes, high-velocity water or submersion below shallow depth. Rinse in fresh water and dry after use in salt water.

Samsung Electronics today introduced three new devices to its industry-leading wearable portfolio: Gear Sport, a sleek and versatile fitness-focused smartwatch that is water resistant; Gear Fit2 Pro, an upgraded GPS sports band with smart features; and Gear IconX, a second generation of the company’s ground-breaking cord-free earbuds. Samsung’s new Gear devices were designed to help consumers get the most out of their day, and help them live a healthy and well-balanced life.

The new Gear devices assist with a range of activities – from robust fitness tracking to nutrition and sleep monitoring, as well as motivational coaching as a lifestyle companion. By introducing new smart capabilities and easy-to-use features, and by partnering with leading names in tech and fitness, Samsung is helping consumers go beyond fitness and accomplish big things.

“At Samsung, we celebrate the everyday athlete – whether you’re going for a light jog, or training for your next triathlon. We have a long history of embracing choice and innovation, and our wearables are designed to help consumers of varying fitness levels meet their goals and aspirations. We want to help remove the stigma that fit can only mean one thing and that fitness trackers are complex and for only the most intense of workouts,” said DJ Koh, President of Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics. “Our new Samsung Gear wearables help consumers ‘go beyond fitness’ and enjoy an active, balanced and fulfilled life in a smart and seamless way.”

As part of this updated line-up, Samsung created new capabilities for Gear Sport and Gear Fit2 Pro:

• Industry-Leading Water Resistance and Swim Tracking: An ideal companion for any swim – from laps to playing in the pool – these devices are 5 ATM¹ certified for water resistance. Now with Speedo’s latest swimming training app, Speedo On, the Gear Sport and Gear Fit2 Pro also allow you to easily track key swim metrics including lap count, lap time, stroke type and more.
• Top-of-the-line Heart Rate Monitoring: With improved accuracy, the devices offer advanced real-time heart rate monitoring. They help you continuously monitor your heart activity – whether it’s enjoying a stress-free nap or an invigorating cycling class.
• Premium Partnerships: Daily activity can be supplemented with updated Under Armour and Spotify partnerships. Both devices provide access to Under Armour’s fitness apps including Under Armour Record, MyFitnessPal®, MapMyRun® and Endomondo² for activity, nutrition, sleep and fitness tracking functions – these apps provide users with a holistic picture of their health and fitness. Spotify’s Offline mode lets you listen to your favourite music online, offline or even without your smartphone so you can enjoy your favourite tunes regardless of location.
• Auto Activity Detection: Automatic activity detection built into the devices are in tune with your body and can recognize the following categories of activities: Walking, Running, Cycling and performing Dynamic Activities that could include dancing to basketball.
• Personalized Motivation: You can customize your own wellness plan with tailored goals and alerts.

Gear Sport: A New Versatile Smartwatch to Support an Active and Balanced Lifestyle 

Gear Sport is stylish, yet practical with a minimalistic, circular bezel, Super AMOLED 1.2-inch display and improved user interface that makes it easy to view information, even when on-the-go. With Gear Sport, users can work to achieve health and wellness goals, and receive nutrition management alerts and activity recommendations even when they are offline.

Designed with military-level durability, it can handle a wide-range of environments.³  With its sleek, ergonomic form that can be worn in a variety of colourful and easily changeable standard 20mm straps, it is perfect for any occasion so you can effortlessly transition from the gym to a night out with friends. Gear Sport will be available in Blue and Black and also includes Gear foundational functions:

• Control of Samsung IoT-enabled devices through Samsung Connect
• Act as a remote control, whether for a PowerPoint presentation or Samsung Gear VR headset
• Pay for goods with a flick of the wrist via Samsung Pay (NFC Only)⁴

Gear Fit2 Pro: An Advanced GPS Fitness Band

In addition to the new swim and heart rate monitoring capabilities, the new Gear Fit2 Pro features advanced built-in GPS tracking to capture your run or ride with accurate activity tracking. Gear Fit2 Pro’s Super AMOLED curved 1.5-inch display and a high-resolution colour touchscreen make real-time updates and notifications easier to read. The all-new secure, ergonomic band is light weight and comfortable to use for all activities. Available in Black and Red, its versatile design also makes it a stylish accessory.

Gear IconX: Comfortable Fit, Cord-Free Earbuds

IconX cord-free earbuds let you effortlessly listen to your favourite music – making your daily commute more enjoyable and helping you get more from your workout. Music can be enjoyed on and offline by transferring songs from a Samsung smartphone⁵ or PC, or accessing your favourite tunes through Bluetooth connectivity. The earbuds are also your newest connection to Bixby.⁶ With a simple tap and hold of the earbud you can use your voice to control your music or your phone – without even having it in your hand.

The updated design comes in Black, Gray and Pink and is even more ergonomic and lightweight so they are effectively secure, comfortable and stylish to use. For the fitness enthusiast, the Gear IconX automatically tracks your running routines, and also features the standalone Running Coach function which can be activated by simply tapping the earbud to provide in-ear audio⁷ exercise status updates – in real-time and without your phone. With a fast-charging and improved battery life of up to five hours of music streaming or seven hours of standalone music playback, and up to 4GB of internal storage, you can enjoy a seamless and fully standalone music listening experience.

Get a first look at Samsung’s new Gear wearables in the official trailer below.

For more product information, please visit samsung.com/za

Samsung Gear Sport Specifications

 Samsung Gear Fit2 Pro Specifications

Samsung Gear IconX (2018) Specifications 

*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.

¹Gear Sport and Gear Fit2 Pro have ISO 22810:2010 certification for 5 ATM rating of 50 meters (165 feet) under specific conditions. This means that both devices are safe to wear while walking in the rain or showering, and may be used for shallow-water activities like swimming in a pool or the ocean. However, the Gear Sport and Gear Fit2 Pro should not be used for scuba diving, waterskiing, or other activities involving high-velocity water or submersion below shallow depth.

²Under Armour’s MapMyRun, Endomondo and Under Armour Record for Gear devices are not supported in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Under Armour’s MyFitness Pal for Gear devices is not supported in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

³ Gear Sport and Gear Fit2 Pro are MIL-STD-810G certified.

⁴NFC support only. Service availability may vary by country.

⁵The Gear IconX is compatible with devices running Android 4.4 and above.

⁶Limited to Samsung devices with Bixby voice capabilities including Galaxy Note8, Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+.

⁷The Gear IconX voice guide supports nine languages including U.S. English, Chinese Mandarin, Spanish, German, French, Korean, Italian, Russian and Japanese.