The Samsung wearable odyssey: A look through time
Samsung has posted a nifty infographic which highlights its journey from bulky watch phones to the sleek Galaxy Ring. In this article we look back to the early days and how we got to where we are today.
Early days: When phones became wristwatches
The infographic begins in 1999 with the bulky SPH-WP10, the world’s first commercially released watch phone. These early devices prioritized function over style but laid the groundwork for the connected wearables we enjoy today.
Moving forward to 2000, and the SPH-S100 hit the market, demonstrating attempts to integrate text and voice dialling features, rudimentary by today’s standards but groundbreaking for its time.
The early 2000s saw Samsung refining the watch phone concept, as seen with the color OLED display of the Watch Phone released in 2003. By 2009, the GT-S9110 was introduced, boasting easy usage via a touchscreen, indicating Samsung’s keen insight into user-friendly interfaces.
Refinement and new form factors
2013 marked a significant year with the launch of the first Samsung Gear. This device not only provided an enhanced Galaxy experience but also set the foundation for the integration of smartphones and wearable devices. The following year’s model, the Gear S2, showcased a innovative circular design and rotating bezel, further enhancing the user interface.
As we stepped into 2015, Samsung’s Gear S series continued to innovate with the Gear S2’s successor, which was the first to support NFC payments, a feature that has now become a staple in wearable devices. This era also saw the emergence of fitness-focused technology with the Gear Fit, introducing real-time health tracking in a sleek form-factor.
Samsung’s pursuit of excellence continued with the release of the Gear IconX in 2017. This is a pair of wireless earphones that optimized fitness routines and included music storage.
The launch of the Galaxy Watch Active series
By 2018, the Galaxy Watch line entered the scene. It elevated the design language of Samsung wearables and integrated advanced health monitoring features.
2019 witnessed the launch of the Galaxy Watch Active series, emphasizing minimalistic design and sports utility. The subsequent Active2 model enhanced usability with a touch bezel and advanced running features, suggesting Samsung’s commitment to fitness lovers and everyday users alike.
The Galaxy Watch3 in 2020 offered a comprehensive suite of health monitoring tools, including an ECG feature, reflecting the growing demand for health-centric tech. The same year saw the release of Galaxy Buds+, enhancing the audio experience with two-way speakers.
Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets
As the timeline approaches the present, the 2022 Galaxy Watch5 series boasts a crystal sapphire display with enhanced health monitoring features, showing Samsung’s continuous improvement in durability and utility. The Galaxy Buds2 Pro released alongside provide an immersive sound experience with Intelligent Active Noise Cancellation. Last year we saw the debut of the Watch 6 series.
In 2024, the infographic introduces the Galaxy Fit3. Released a few weeks ago, this is a device that pioneers fitness tracking with Fall Detection, and Emergency SOS.
The infographic culminates in the recently announced Galaxy Ring. This concept device, teased at CES 2024 and officially unveiled at MWC 2024, turns your finger into a command centre. Due out later this year, it is a testament to Samsung’s commitment to reimagining how we interact with technology.
That’s where we are today folks. Exciting times lie ahead. We are certainly looking forward to witnessing what Samsung wearable goodies the years ahead bring us!
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