Samsung has finally released its much-awaited $299 Galaxy Gear smartwatch to the U.S and obviously invested much to market the device by running several dozens of full-page newspaper ads and multiple TV commercials.
If you are one of those who have seen the ads, you may have asked yourself if the Samsung Galaxy Gear is another gadget that should be included in your list of must-haves. There’s no need to rush for an answer as it can be really helpful if you understand better how the device works.
The Galaxy Gear is an avant-garde device and gives an impressive first-hand experience of what we can expect with wearable technology in the future. However, it’s one of those gadgets that also belong to the first-generation class and as such, are deemed to have a lot of limitations.
Let’s look at how it actually works. First, it features 1.63-inch touch screen. You can navigate by swiping your finger and by giving voice commands. You can also tap its power button or just raise your arm up if you need to check on the time and see the main screen.
The main screen of the device shows a pre-selected clock. You can opt to use it as a traditional analogue watch or the modern digital type. Moreover, the screen has shortcut features that will instantly bring you to the camera, the settings menu, and the voice assistant.
Swiping the screen in a horizontal motion will enable you to view your favorite apps such as the notifications, pedometer, photo gallery, and more. You can also add more apps by installing the Gear Manager on your smartphone and sync it with your Galaxy Gear.
A vertical swipe will lead you to the camera app and will enable you to go back to a previously viewed app. However, if you’re not too sure which swiping direction to use, you can then opt to use the Gear’s S Voice, Samsung’s version of Apple’s Siri.
Design wise, the Galaxy Gear looks like a decent device with features that are not only attractive but also durable. However, various reviews warn buyers of getting the device as early as now.
Daniel Bean of Yahoo News complained that the Galaxy Gear can only be paired with a Samsung Galaxy Note. This means it will be useless if you want to switch to a different smartphone. However, Samsung is already planning to expand it to other devices so it is best to wait for that to happen first.
A review from L.A Times also mentioned smartphone compatibility as an issue but it discussed more of how the price tag is way too high for its specs. He reasoned that $299 is too much for a companion device.
The Verge is not happy with the apps quantity and quality and gave Galaxy Gear a 4.0 overall score.
Despite varying opinions, all are unanimous in advising buyers to wait for the next version of the Galaxy Gear smartwatch.
