- 1. Rating
- 2. Specifications
- 3. Packing and equipment
- 4. Design and ergonomics
- 5. Display
- 6. Interface
- 7. Compatibility
- 8. Performance and functionality
- 9. Autonomy
- 10. Conclusion
- 11. Video review of Samsung Gear S3 Frontier
- 12. Pros and cons
At IFA 2016, Samsung unveiled the third generation of its Gear line of smartwatches. The new model received two offshoots Classic and Frontier. The first option is designed for a mass audience, while the second has expanded functionality and more expressive appearance. Samsung Review Gear S3 Frontier will tell you about the main functions of the device and summarize under the efforts of the Korean company to improve the already popular smart watch S2.
Information about Samsung Gear S3 Frontier
8.0 Evaluation
Packaging and equipment
The contents of the package are neatly arranged in a stylish cylindrical box. The accessories are separated by several cardboard dividers for better stability during transport. The watch is already magnetized out of the box to the charging station. 
Inside:
- Samsung Gear S3 Frontier;
- Dock station;
- Power Supply;
- MicroUSB cable;
- Silicone strap;
- Documentation.
The cost of the Frontier version in Russian online stores is about $ 375.
Design and ergonomics
The developments of the previous generation S2 in the new model were embodied in a more aggressive appearance. The round case of the Frontier has slightly increased in diameter and acquired a grooved edging. The toothed ring is also an important functional element - with its help you can turn pages in the menu and receive notifications. 
Despite its sporty design, the S3 may well match austere business attire. To do this, you need to choose the appropriate dial and strap. There will definitely not be any problems with the latter, Samsung produces straps in three sizes (S, M and L) for a 22 mm mount on the case. You can also use any other third-party strap with your watch. The release of a designer line of accessories from fashion designer Arik Levy is expected soon. 
The body of the device is predominantly made of 316L steel with a matte finish. Only the back cover with sensors is made of glass. Frontier looks chunky and may not fit the tight sleeves of some shirts. For such cases, it is recommended to take a closer look at the Classic model. It is lighter and smaller than the older version. 
Samsung does not hide the fact that when developing the appearance of the S3, they focused on the elite TAG Heuer Connected watch. There are no blind spots with plastic inserts on the touch screen of the device, the displayed information occupies 100% of the allotted area. In addition to the bezel, the menu can be operated with two keys on the right side of the case. 
On the left, there are three small holes for the earpiece. The Frontier does a great job with the wireless headset function. The watch allows you to talk safely while driving without being distracted from the road. 
Despite the sports orientation of the model, using the S3 in training is quite problematic. The device is too bulky and constrains sudden movements of the wrist. In addition, the heart rate sensor does not always read the body's indicators correctly.
Display
S3 Frontier displays information on an AMOLED matrix with a resolution of 360 * 360 pixels. Considering the small diagonal (1.3-inches), the pixel density still falls short of the level of modern smartphones - 278 dpi allows you to distinguish individual points on the screen, but the screen quality in general can be called high. On top of the matrix is safety glass Corning Gorilla Glass SR + with a good oleophobic coating. 
The clock display is paired with a light sensor. The change in brightness is smooth and correct. S3 can also show basic data with minimal power consumption in AlwaysOn Display mode. There is a similar function in flagship smartphones Galaxy S7. 
The picture on the screen is perfectly visible from almost any angle. It's easy to see your current heart rate or steps taken while running. The disadvantages include the excessive sensitivity of the orientation sensor. You have to constantly turn the watch away from you so that the display does not light up again. The situation is aggravated by the heavy case, which, with a not too tight strap, constantly strives to slide down. 
Frontier is able to determine if the functionality of the device is used in this moment... If the S3 is just lying on the table, the power saving mode is activated. To bring the device back to life, you just need to put the strap on your hand. In this case, the screen backlight needs to wait five seconds. A small, but still a flaw that should be fixed with subsequent OS updates.
Interface
Like most other miniature devices from Samsung, the S3 Frontier runs the Tizen OS. Specifically in this model, the Tizen 2.3.2 system is preinstalled. 
The principle of clock control has practically not changed since the time of the previous model. As before, it is not just the display that can be used for navigation. The ribbed navigation ring around the screen does an excellent job of flipping through menus, making the S3 easy to operate even with gloves on. 
Two mechanical buttons on the side of the case are responsible for going back, going to the main screen and turning off the device. In normal mode, the watch always displays the dial. Rotating the bezel to the left opens the alerts, to the right - the widget menu. A light swipe from top to bottom displays the options and the current state of the Frontier. 
Initially, the user has 14 preinstalled dials. The assortment is expanding almost to limitlessness thanks to new additions from the Galaxy Apps store. The whole interface is built on the principle of Circle UI, icons are placed in a circle and take up the maximum amount of free space.
Compatibility
Frontier was created for maximum audience coverage, right after the release of the watch, the developers implemented the ability to synchronize them with iOS devices. Samsung smartphones paired with S3 work perfectly. In Galaxy flagships The S7 and S8 already have a preinstalled clock sync app. But the owners of others Android devices will have to tinker a little. 
First you have to download Samsung Gear, Gear S Plugin and Samsung Accessory Service. Then you need to register your account(Samsung Account). It will be used for the correct operation of the S Health health tracker. On iPhone, the process is a bit simplified, you only need to install the first application from the list. 
The watch is equipped with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, NFC and GPS / GLONASS modules. The built-in microphone and speaker allow you to keep your smartphone out of your pocket for every call. For convenient messaging, S Voice is supported. In the settings, you can specify the automatic mode of connection via Bluetooth without unnecessary notifications.
Performance and functionality
The Frontier hardware platform is represented by a 14nm Exynos 7270 processor with a maximum clock speed of 1 GHz, 768 MB of RAM and four gigabytes of internal memory. Compared to the previous generation, there is a noticeable increase in performance even when flipping through the interface. All menus open without delays or sagging. 
You can reply to incoming messages with a pre-prepared phrase, text or emoticon. The preinstalled apps include Calendar, S Voice, S Health, Player and Phone. The Samsung Apps store is constantly updated with new programs, so there should be no problems with updating the software. 
Internal service S Health has expanded its capabilities. Now there is a fitness and sports regime. The first one reads information about the steps taken, heart rate, fluid intake and the number of hours of sleep. Based on this data, the application builds interactive activity graphs. If a person sits for more than an hour in one place, the clock begins to vibrate, warning of the need for a walk. 
Sports mode tracks your running, squatting, jumping, and a host of other exercises. At the same time, the pulse, the speed of movement, as well as the distance traveled are monitored. You can choose the number of calories to burn, then the Frontier will inform you about the desired pace of activities. The built-in altimeter gives an indication of the change in altitude.
Autonomy
The built-in 380mAh battery allows you to use the watch for about 3-4 days normally without hard training. Active sports with GPS tracking will drain your battery in two days.
The S3 Frontier is powered by a docking station with induction charging technology. It is enough to put the device on a special platform, it will independently charge the battery up to 100% in about 2 hours.
Output
Samsung Gear S3 Frontier is still one of the few smartwatches with adequate timing autonomous work and functionality. The device does an excellent job with all the tasks assigned to it. The only drawback can be considered the excessive massiveness of the S3, because of which they will not be convenient for owners of thin brushes. Otherwise, this is a great accessory for everyone who is constantly on the go.
Video review Samsung Gear S3 Frontier
You can find more interesting models of smart watches in our selection: ""
- Waterproof IP68
- AlwaysOn Display
- Universal strap attachment
- Convenient control
- Ability to receive phone calls
- High price
- Massive body
- Complex synchronization with smartphones of third-party brands
15.03.2017 36758
Smart watch Samsung Gear S3 frontier
Well, now I have my favorite dial - this one, it is called S3Illuminator24h. Very user-friendly and intuitive.
Swipe from top to bottom - quick toggle area.
Turning the cogwheel counterclockwise - notifications. Moreover, they are very convenient to view. For example, a letter notification.
Tap on the screen - and the whole letter can be scrolled and read using the wheel.
Turning the wheel clockwise - widgets of various applications. Tap on the widget - call up extended information and, possibly, icons of various actions (as, for example, in the phone application). Weather.
Contacts - there you can view a contact, make a call, send an SMS.
Reminders.
Calendar entries.
Kilocalories spent (tracking physical activity of various types).
Step counter.
Barometer and altimeter. By the way, the barometer does not have units of "millimeters of mercury", there are only hPa and inches of mercury, which, in general, is not particularly good.
Samsung news app.
Media player. Can play audio tracks both from a smartphone and from the watch itself (the icon on the top right switches the source of the tracks). From the watch itself, it reproduces very competently (not like in Android Wear). Shows a list of tracks, allows you to create playlists, sort by albums and artists. Songs are downloaded to the watch from a smartphone from the Samsung Gear app wirelessly.
Heart rate measurement. It can be carried out in automatic mode occasionally. But the sensor, as usual in a watch, does not very accurately determine, and if the hand is also sweaty, then it messes up specifically.
The calendar.
Well, there is also a list of various widgets that you can set: alarm clock, world clock, and so on.
The top button works as a return to the dial, the bottom button calls applications. They do not fit on one desktop, there is a special icon that calls the next desktop with applications.
Phone application. There is a call log, you can call a subscriber, dial a number.
Dialing a number.
Let me remind you that there is a speaker and a microphone, so you can safely answer calls that come to your smartphone right from your watch. Tracking physical activity.
There are a lot of interesting things in the settings. And there is a "Do not disturb" mode set directly on the watch, which is important.
Find My Phone app - makes a call on your phone.
The activity tracking mode is very cool. The watch detects the type of activity and records its duration. At the same time, they periodically encourage them with messages "Keep it up", and at the end of the walk they express all sorts of compliments.
They also know how to track sleep patterns and the next morning they show what time you fell asleep, what time you woke up and how much you slept. Which, in general, is also quite interesting.
At the international forum IFA 2016, Samsung presented one of the models of the third generation of smart smart watches Gear. The device is available in two versions - and Frontier. The first model is designed for mass demand, and the second for a more selective category of consumers, since the Samsung Gear S3 frontier sm 760 smart watch has an extended functional part and an original stylish design.
Potential and ergonomic
The previous generation of watches made the developers take a new look and improve the watch model. The device turned out to be more aggressive in appearance. The body of the product has increased in diameter and its edging has changed - it has become slightly corrugated and with uneven edges.
Control
The main role in the watch structure is played by the “digital crown”, a special toothed ring (bezel). She manages the main functions. Scrolling the wheel on the display, one by one, all notifications in installed applications pop up while working with the main menu. By clicking on the "window" you can see the details in detail.
Let's say that working with the "digital crown" the device speeds up the process of controlling the gadget in the chosen direction.
Strap
Despite the fact that the watch is made in a sporty style, it may well suit a strict business style. A wide selection of straps in different shades is available especially for these options. It is also impossible to make a mistake with the dimensions - Samsung produces three types of sizes S, M and L. The watch case has a diameter of 22 mm, so changing the strap is not difficult. In addition, if you prefer a strict style in everyday life, then take a closer look at the Samsung Gear S3 Frontier watch. They fit perfectly into a business look.
Display
The case construction of Samsung smart watch - S3 Frontier is made of cold forged steel with a matte finish. Only the back of the lid is made of glass as there are sensors underneath. The company does not hide the fact that when developing the model, the appearance was guided by the Swiss TAG Heart Connected watch known for its attitude to elite devices.
The display fully displays all information, there are no voids and so-called "dead zones", which are usually filled with plastic parts. In addition to the "digital crown" - the watch is controlled using two buttons located on the right side of the case.
Read also:
Review of the fitness bracelet Bizzaro F330
On the left side there are three sensors for the speaker. The device does an excellent job with a wireless headset, for example, you can easily talk while driving without removing the watch from your wrist and without being distracted from the road.
Despite the fact that the watch is declared as a sports watch, it is not very convenient to practice in it. The device is rather bulky, constrains the movement of the wrist and, judging by the reviews, the heart rate sensor does not always show the correct results.
Features of the device
Let's consider the main characteristics of the presented watch model:
- compatible with Android device;
- the calendar;
- Email;
- social notifications;
- makes it easy to make and receive phone calls;
- simple navigation, clear picture;
- touchscreen display with a resolution of 360 x 360;
- wireless connection with your smartphone;
- Bluetooth connection.
- offline connection (this means that the watch can work for a long time without recharging);
- space for a SIM card device and an additional memory card chip;
- Wi-Fi;
- a device that allows you to make and receive calls and texts on the watch with the mobile number of your smartphone, even when the phone is nearby;
- store music in memory and play via bluetooth or speaker;
- music player with support: FLAC, mp3 and WAV, in 3gp, MIDI and OGG format;
- set phone numbers, access to your favorite contacts;
- the ability to view the latest calls;
- voice recognizer, commands voice dialing, call waiting, caller ID, identifier;
- alarm clock, timer and stopwatch;
- screen lock;
- customizable font sizes;
- reminders (set the clock to show reminders at specific times);
- the function "find your phone";
- multilingual support (includes 15 languages);
- flight mode;
- 4 default ringtones + vibration;
- determination of barometric pressure;
- heart rate monitor;
- GPS to improve location accuracy.
Equipment
The watch set is in a stylish cylindrical package (small box). Contents are separated by neat cardboard dividers to improve stability during transport. The device is initially magnetised to the charging part of the product. The average estimated cost in Russian online stores is $ 370-400.
The kit includes:
- Samsung Gear S3 Frontier;
- strap;
- wireless charger docking stations;
- quick start guide;
- user's manual.
Classic vs Frontier, what's the difference?
Comparing the two models, what you pay attention to first of all is that the watch began to look more massive, despite the fact that the case in both models is the same (46 × 46x12.9 mm), the strap is ordinary (22 mm), you can change to other similar ones. strap models from other manufacturers. If in previous version S2 galaxy used a separate latch, but in the new version there is nothing of the kind.
Read also:
Watchphones: an overview of inexpensive models
Case and strap
The strap options can be different, it all depends on the material and color scheme. They are available in leather, silicone, rubber. In addition, the diameter of the case is universal, so straps from other manufacturers will easily fit them. In production metal case The watch uses the same steel as in the Gear S2 - 316L, but the case itself has changed - it has become more massive and looks noticeably better.
In the new version of the smart watch, a rotary mechanism (benzel) remains, it performs the same function as before, but its edging was made ribbed. Both versions of the watch are equipped with an IP68 protection standard, which prevents moisture, dirt and dust from entering. But, in the Frontier model, there are also such functions as protection against shocks, temperature surges, tracking of increased vibration. This innovation is made according to the analogue of military standards.
We can say that the Classic is the standard version of the watch with the usual set of functions, and the Frontier is a universal "non-kill" model with the MIL-810G protection standard (the watch is suitable for active training, it is protected from strong shocks, etc.). If you weigh a watch without a strap, then the Frontier will have an advantage - they are heavier. The fastening element is comfortable, there are no complaints here.
Consider the screen
If in the previous version the size was 1.2 inches, then the improved model is 1.3 inches. The resolution was kept the same 360 × 360 pixels for application compatibility. The smart watch has an AlwaysOn Display support function, thanks to which the screen works constantly. Testing has shown that active work is possible for two days.
The screen is covered with a special Corning Gorilla Glass SR +. This makes the watch resistant to scratches and cracks on the glass. In addition, the function provides high sensitivity of the sensors (if you pre-configure the menu), then the screen will respond to finger touches, even with gloves.
The increased size of the screen made it possible to improve the charging battery, the volume increased to 380 mAh. Wireless charging connection is carried out using the cradle included in the kit. The average duration of a full charge is two hours. The average operating time of the clock depends on which notifications and applications are installed, it is approximately 3-4 days.
The lower side buttons in the previous Classic are simpler and less comfortable, while on the Frontier they have a ribbed surface and thus have excellent pressure.
Contents of delivery
- Strap
- Instructions
- Charging station
Specifications
- Screen 1.3 inches, 360x360 pixels, SuperAMOLED, Corning® Gorilla® Glass SR +, glove mode
- Battery built-in Li-Pol 380 mAh, up to four days of work
- Tizen OS
- Dimensions - 46x46x12.9 mm, weight 57 and 62 grams (Classic / Frontier)
- Silicone or leather strap, 22 mm, any strap fits
- IP68 water and dust proof, MIL-810G (Frontier, vibration, shock and temperature proof)
- Heart rate sensor
- Voice control S Voice, updated version
- Samsung Pay (does not work on watches in Russia)
- SOS mode, sending messages to emergency numbers
- Barometer, altimeter, speedometer
- S Health
- 3G / 4G, eSIM (Frontier model only)
- 768 MB random access memory, 4GB internal memory
- BT 4.2, Wi-Fi b / g / n, USB 2.0, NFC, MST, GPS / Glonass
- Dual-core 1 GHz processor
- Navigation Here
Positioning
Exactly the same as a year or two ago, it is necessary to answer the question, why do we need smart watches, for whom they were created. The market for smartwatches has not become massive, a negligible amount of them is sold per year compared to smartphones, the numbers differ by orders of magnitude. For example, in the third quarter of 2016, about 2.7 million hours were shipped to the channels (IDC data), and even less were sold. For comparison, in the same quarter, smartphones were delivered about 350 million units.
In my opinion, there are exactly two reasons for this situation. The first and the main one is that many companies created smart watches without looking at the watch market. Remember the first generations of Gear watches, their design could be called anything, but not classic for a watch. But that was some three years ago!
Samsung went through the search for the right form factor, the necessary features for the watch, having managed to change several generations of Gear watches along the way. The same Apple in many ways borrowed the ideas of Samsung for the Apple Watch, already following the beaten track. I am sure that after some time they will also borrow the ideas that are embedded in the Gear S3.
The Gear S3 model is divided into two devices - Classic and Frontier. The relatively “junior” model looks a little smaller, lacks the military protection standard MIL-810G (shock, temperature, vibration), there is no built-in 3G / 4G module with an eSIM card (not supported in Russia). But otherwise these watches are identical and offer the same set of features. The differences lie in the design and if the cost of the watch is equal, they will choose what they like best. This is an uncommon approach for electronics manufacturers, usually the more features, the more cost. But not here. Now Samsung is trying to adopt the approach of watch companies, which prioritizes design and only then additional functions. For the first time, a watch designer was involved in the development of a watch at Samsung; Yvan Arpa was involved in the creation of the Gear S3, he is an outstanding personality in every sense. Someone considers him a temporary worker, someone, on the contrary, admires his ability to outrageous, which is only a watch with fossilized dinosaur feces. But I love what he does in the Spero Lucem collection, not only watches, but also handles and knives. You can look at these items.
Ivan Arpa approached the creation of the Gear S3 from the standpoint of a watch; smart functions were taken into consideration as a second priority. And for the first time a Gear line has a watch that is typical of Swiss manufacturers, not electronics makers.
Previous Gear S2s were made in the style of regular watches, but they clearly lacked attention to detail, any comparison with even entry-level Swiss models betrayed the fact that the Gear was created by an electronics manufacturer. This feeling is difficult to describe, you just feel the weight of the watch on your wrist, how the material is processed, which seems to be the same, but feels completely different. Nevertheless, the Gear S2's design was liked by many and was perceived as a step in the right direction.
The Gear S3 takes it one step further and for the first time a Samsung watch looks and feels like a Swiss watch, without any discounts or assumptions. Not the most expensive models, but they are quite comparable with the same Tag Heuer Connected, there is no difference between them.
Now a few words about what is happening with the "old" watch. Samsung has completely changed the approach to these accessories, now they have a maximum life cycle and it is not determined by these or those functions, in the days of Gear 2 the functionality was already at its maximum. From now on, new models expand the line, but do not replace the devices that already existed before them. So, Gear S2 / S2 Classic never disappear from the market, they remain in the line of devices from Samsung. That is, the company will continue to release, sell, and it is planned that they will exist simultaneously with the Gear S3. At the same time, the Gear S3 is positioned higher than any previous watch from Samsung.
Compared to Gear S2
We see Samsung's approach of watch companies, new watches in the updated design do not replace the previous ones, but supplement the line and exist simultaneously with them. This approach is not typical for electronics manufacturers.
The positioning of the Gear S3 is very simple - the audience for this watch will be both technology enthusiasts, they have always chosen the Gear line, but also ordinary users who choose watches and look at both smart electronics and ordinary watch brands. Perhaps, for the first time, Samsung has a chance to expand the potential audience of smartwatches, since this model is perceived quite differently than everything that was before.
Design, Materials & Hardware - Classic vs. Frontier
The first thing you pay attention to is that the watches have become more massive, while the case size in both models is the same - 46x46x12.9 mm, the strap is 22 mm standard, you can use any straps from watch manufacturers. If the S2 used its own latch, then there is nothing of the kind. In the photo you can see the old latch.
And this is how the new strap looks like, which can be made of any materials - rubber, silicone, leather, and so on.
The choice of additional straps is huge, and you can use a strap from any manufacturer.
Exactly the same 316L steel is used as in the Gear S2, but the case has become more massive, and the watch looks much better on the wrist.
We left the rotating bezel (bezel), it serves as a control element, while it was made ribbed, which is not bad. Both versions of the watch support the IP68 protection standard, but the Frontier model also adds protection against temperature, shock, vibration, all at the level of military standards. That is, if the Classic is a typical watch, then the Frontier is made non-kill (MIL-810G standard. The watch is protected from impacts on stones and other objects, suitable for active sports.
The weight of the watch is 57 or 62 grams (without a strap, the Frontier is heavier), which is not much in comparison with conventional mechanics, but the watch is felt on the wrist, and its weight is pleasant, a sort of golden mean. The clasp is comfortable, no complaints.
If in the previous generation the screen was 1.2 inches, then here it is 1.3 inches, but for the sake of application compatibility, the resolution was left the same - 360x360 pixels. The AlwaysOn Display function is supported, that is, the screen can work all the time! According to preliminary data, with this function the watch will work for about 2 days. The screen is covered with Corning® Gorilla® Glass SR +. The glass is resistant to everyday scratches and is difficult to damage. Of the additional chips - you can turn on the increased sensitivity of the screen in the menu, then it will support pressing with gloves.
The larger body made it possible to increase the size of the battery, now it is 380 mAh, as before, wireless charging is supported using the cradle that is included in the package. Charging time is about two hours.
Gear S3 and Gear S2
On average, these hours work up to 4 days, depending on what notifications and how often you receive, what functions you use. With maximum screen illumination, hourly conversations, they usually work for two full days (synchronization is also enabled for everything, both via bluetooth and WiFi).
The side keys on the Classic are simpler and less comfortable.
Whereas on the Frontier they are ribbed and therefore press perfectly.
As before, a dual-core processor with a maximum frequency of 1 GHz is used, but the amount of RAM has increased from 512 MB to 768 MB (Tizen 2.3.2). While the Classic has support for Bluetooth® 4.2, Wi-Fi b / g / n, NFC, MST, GPS / Glonass, then the Frontier also adds a 3G / 4G module (eSIM, support depends on the operator). In Russia, the watch does not support eSIM, nor does it support Samsung Pay.
The heart rate sensor has been updated in the watch, another module is used, it is located under the glass on the inside. The new sensor is less sensitive to shaking and can be used during training and running.
Separately, I note the return of hardware GPS / Glonass, respectively, there is a full-fledged navigation right in the watch, without a companion smartphone. The cards are, as before, Here.
Of the new features, I note the presence of two side buttons that can be configured to call the necessary functions. Also, most of the menu is redrawn for the use of the rim, for example, answering a call, hanging up, and the like. But the most important thing, in my opinion, is that now again, like in Gear 2, you can talk for hours. This is especially interesting in the Frontier, which de facto turn into a phone with a working eSIM card. Many Gear 2 users did not change their watches to Gear S2 due to the lack of GPS, the inability to take notes by voice and talk on the phone, now this shortcoming has been eliminated.
The SOS function allows you to transmit your coordinates and message to the specified numbers (Frontier), this was not the case on previous models.
Another curious point - in addition to hardware GPS, this watch has a hardware barometer, an altimeter, which are used in sports applications (tilt, distance traveled uphill), and can also predict the weather locally. The speedometer shows your current speed.
For those who do not want to take out the phone to create a reminder, there is an opportunity to write a reminder by hand on the screen, it will be recognized and translated into text.
Interface, work with the clock, preinstalled programs
Circle UI, sometimes called Round UI. The logic of the watch is built around the control with the bezel. So, scroll the screens with the rim, by default they show you the time. Rotate to the right and see your own widgets, which you installed yourself, for the applications you need... Rotate to the left and in front of you are various notifications from the phone; in standby mode, a yellow dot shows that there are new messages.
The circular menu for applications can be accessed by pressing the lower button, the upper level is accessed by the upper key. The menu contains your applications, and there may be several circles with them. You can sort by yourself where and how to place the shortcuts, so that it is convenient for you.
Having found the desired item, icon, you click on it, then you can scroll through the list with a rim or scroll the page. For example, while reading a website or mail, you twist a sheet with a rim. This is good, as it saves time, you do not close the screen and you can always see the information. You need to understand that no one will read the treatises on the watch, it can be an SMS or something small, but not noticeable in size.
There are already over ten thousand watch apps out there, but most of them are simply not needed. And attempts to find the announced 10,000 applications in the store turned into a complete fiasco, on the strength of several hundred, most of which are design options for the main screen with a dial. The number of applications is growing from year to year, but there are almost no really needed ones, the watch has everything from the beginning.
Pay attention to how the default dials look like, each of them can be further customized, changed colors, for example, from black to white and vice versa.
Notifications come to the watch in the usual manner, plus there is S Health (the watch can measure steps, heart rate (both constantly and on demand). As a sports watch, Gear S3 is noticeably better than the previous Gear S2, it sits more tightly on the wrist, measures more accurately because of this, the pulse, including during active games or jogging.
There is an interesting thing in S Health, now you can compete with your friends, which of you will take the most steps. And the watch has a widget that shows your progress. Interesting and motivating thing.
In addition to steps and distance traveled, the watch also counts how many floors you have walked, and can measure altitude (this is where the altimeter came in handy).
In the previous model, my gripe was S Voice and how it works. Recognizing the voice in Russian was a painful task, but in S3 this moment was greatly tweaked. The bad news is that S Voice works only with Samsung phones, although the watch can be connected to any Android smartphone. From good - the quality of voice recognition has become very decent. And again about sad things - in a crowd or on the street, the watch microphone reacts to extraneous sounds and therefore you can use S Voice only in a quiet room, in other cases there are many false positives or it simply works incorrectly.
It's very easy to deal with the watch, but there are questions about how to view the gallery (photos become round), and the gallery view painfully resembles a cloud of icons on the Apple Watch. Despite the fact that there is 4 GB of memory inside, only 200 photos from the gallery can be copied to the phone.
Navigation works on Here maps, everything is quite simple, including routes (on foot, by bike or by car, with approximate travel time) are shown. Nothing special, it is unlikely that such navigation will be in demand among ordinary people.
Music can be controlled directly from the watch, and you can also load your songs into the Gear S3's memory. If you want, you can connect a wireless headset directly to the watch, then you don't need a phone to listen to music.
Look at the remaining possibilities in the screenshots, I think they will describe themselves what the watch can do, I will not dwell on ordinary functions.
On your smartphone, you install Gear Manager, which allows you to completely customize your watch, and from there you can also get full access to the app store.
There are more and more smart watches, almost everything large producers already have one or two or three models in their assortment, and in the vastness of vast China there are some incredible numbers of them, mostly "no-name" manufacturers. Well, okay with China, they have every right. Today we are not talking about that. Samsung has unveiled the third generation of its Gear S3 at IFA 2016. Previous S2s have proven to be very successful and feature rich. The third generation watch is even more advanced (which is natural) and is available in two versions: Samsung Gear S3 Classic and Frontier, we have a Frontier model on our review, which is designed for more active users.
What is it and how is it different from the Gear S2?
Samsung Gear S3 is a Samsung smartwatch on Tizen, compatible with Android smartphones running OS 4.4 or higher with at least 1.5 GB of RAM (like the previous generation), rumors are that there will be compatibility with iOS. The watch is equipped with a round SuperAMOLED display with a diagonal of 1.3 inches and a resolution of 360x360 and automatic backlight adjustment (the previous generation was equipped with 1.2-inch screens). Instead of Gorilla Glass 3, Gorilla Glass SR + is used to protect the screen, which is designed specifically for wearable electronics. There are Wi-Fi modules, Bluetooth for pairing with smartphones and headsets, NFC, accelerometer, barometer, gyroscope, heart rate sensor, lighting, and now also its own GPS, which makes the watch more independent. In addition, an external speaker has appeared, the watch can be used for conversations. Samsung Gear S3 is also protected from dust, dirt and water according to the IP68 standard, which allows you to stay at a depth of 1.5 m for 30 minutes. That is, it is still not worthwhile to fully swim in them. The Frontier model is additionally additionally protected in accordance with the military standards MIL-STD-810G (protection against vibration, shock and temperatures from -40 to +70 ° C) Of course, inside there is more powerful hardware, and the battery capacity has increased from 250 to 380 mAh.
What do they look like?
The Gear S3 has become even more like a "regular" watch. In the previous line, the Classic model could boast of this, while the "base" one looked more futuristic (although I would not say that it is bad). Both Gear S3 variants really look like a regular wristwatch. The Classic version is more suitable for the suit, while the Frontier looks more brutal and aggressive, and of course I liked this one more. The watch case is made of 316L stainless steel. The controls are still a touchscreen, a rotatable bezel with small notches around the perimeter and two physical buttons on the side (Home and Back). In the Frontier model, they are large, with a texture for more comfortable use, for example, with gloves, in the Classic they are small, round. In addition to Gorilla Glass SR +, there is another precaution: the screen is in a recess and the likelihood of accidentally breaking it decreases:
Classic comes with a leather strap, Frontier - more wear-resistant and practical silicone straps can be changed, Samsung releases a bunch of options from different materials, in different colors and with a variety of patterns, so there is plenty to choose from:
The set includes an absolutely neutral black strap; at IFA 2016 live you could contemplate a bunch of other options, including bright red ones. The mount is standard, 22 mm, so you can use not only branded options. The strap can be removed very easily using small latches on the inside:
The buckle of the strap has a classic shape, tested over the years. Branded straps come in different sizes: S, M and L. The watch came to our editorial office with a strap in size L, which was just right for me, although my hand is thin:
On the back of the watch is all sorts of Technical information, model name, 316L steel markings and optical heart rate sensor, the company claims to be an improvement over the Gear S2. I walked with the previous generation for just a couple of days, so I will not compare the accuracy and speed of work for objective reasons. On the side, near one of the mechanical buttons, you can see a small hole. This is the built-in microphone.
Unlike the Gear S2, the new model is equipped with a microphone and speaker, so you can now talk directly on the Gear S3 Frontier. The speaker holes are on the left side. Of course, the function works when a smartphone is connected via Bluetooth. A version of the watch with eSIM and LTE support is available abroad, which effectively makes the Gear S3 Frontier a completely independent device.
The Samsung Gear S3 Frontier is quite large, substantially larger than the Gear S2. This also applies to the Classic version, which is actually the same size as the Frontier, and only slightly lighter (59g vs. 63g). For a fragile girl, the watch will be too big and heavy, so it's better to try it on, maybe the Gear S2 will fit better. Moreover, the Gear S3 is not a replacement, but a more advanced and expensive addition to the lineup. Samsung's second generation watch is not going to be discontinued and the models will be sold in parallel to each other.
From a male point of view, the Gear S3 Frontier looks as attractive as possible. Maximum visual proximity to a regular wristwatch plus aggressive sporty design did the trick. Of course, the watch is perfectly assembled from quality materials, there is a steel case. For the fair sex, it may seem too big / rude, for such cases there is the Gear S2.
What about the screen and hardware?
The Samsung Gear S3 is equipped with a high-quality 1.3-inch SuperAMOLED touchscreen display with a round shape, without any cut-off pieces like the MOTO. The resolution is the same as in the previous generation: 360x360, but the pixel density has decreased due to the increase in screen size: 278 against 302 ppi, although in this case it is absolutely not essential. The screen is very bright, with vibrant colors and (of course) maximum viewing angles. Always On Display is supported so that the watch face can be displayed at all times. Of course, the battery will drain faster, but it looks even more impressive. In the inactive mode, the current dial is displayed with a reduced brightness, but it is enough to view the current time on the street:
Another useful thing is the screen sensitivity mode. Really works great and the watch interacts with gloves without any problems in winter.
The hardware in such devices is not as critical as in smartphones. Moreover, Tizen is a lightweight and very well-optimized OS, also due to a very small number of devices on it. Nevertheless, Samsung has installed an updated hardware: it uses a dual-core 14nm Exynos 7270 processor with a frequency of 1 GHz (FinFET) instead of the Exynos 3250, inside 768 MB of RAM (in the previous line it was 512 MB). The amount of internal memory remains the same: 4 GB, about 1.5 GB is available to the user, which is quite enough for installing additional applications and a small selection of music for jogging.
Of all kinds of sensors and wireless modules, there is an accelerometer, barometer, gyroscope, heart rate sensor, light sensor, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, NFC and GPS / Glonass. According to subjective feelings, it all works exactly, properly, without any problems. Although for users who are seriously involved in running / cycling and so on, it is still worth getting a more accurate chest heart rate monitor.
What about the charger and the battery?
Like the previous Gear S2, the current model is charged using a wireless charger stand, which is quite convenient. Much more convenient than all sorts of clamps with contacts, although the charging speed suffers. The stand has a magnet for faster and correct installation hours. At the bottom there is an LED indicator that glows red when charging and green when charging is complete.
Connects Charger to a power source (for example, a PC) using an absolutely standard MicroUSB cable, so if you lose the complete one, there will be no special problems.
The increased size and weight are partly due to the significantly larger battery: instead of 250 mAh, a 380 mAh battery is used. They promise 3-4 days of battery life. In real conditions, with the Always On Display function turned on, constant Bluetooth connection and constant notifications from absolutely all applications on the smartphone (plus automatic regular heart rate measurement), pedometer and so on, the watch lasts 2 days, which is very good with such a filling. Without Always On Display, you can safely get 3 days. I have not done any races without a smartphone and memorized the route using the Gears S3's own GPS module. There is a suspicion that such a use case will significantly reduce battery life.
What's with the software?
There are more and more “smart” watches, platforms for them have already spawned, the situation resembles “smart” TVs: most manufacturers are promoting their own solution. Apple continues to release its square "Tamagotchi" on watchOS, Pebble use their own PebbleOS (more precisely, they used it, judging by the recent news), a number of manufacturers settled on Android Wear, which is an attempt at at least some unification, but so far not very convenient, but numerous Chinese manufacturers are experimenting with cut-down versions of "full-fledged" Android or their own handicrafts. Samsung continues to promote its own Tizen both in TVs and smartwatches and it is worth saying that it is really convenient, but the software developers are very sluggish in releasing new applications (although there are some, including really useful local ones like Privat24, Uklon, Uber, Eda.ua, Tickets.ua and so on). Samsung Gear S3 runs on Tizen Based Wearable Platform version 2.3.2. In general, the organization and logic of the interface is very similar to that of a typical smartphone.
There is a main screen (in fact, the selected dial), which, depending on the type, displays all sorts of useful information and controls:
There are enough of them preinstalled, plus the store has a huge number of different third-party options, both paid and free, ranging from classic options to animated in the style of "Terminator" or Pip-Boy from Fallout. Some of the dials support customization (choice of colors):
Rotating the bezel counterclockwise (or swiping across the screen from left to right) opens a section with notifications. In it, you can read incoming messages, reply (there are certain templates), view missed calls, open a message in the corresponding application on your smartphone, and so on. They are removed by swiping from bottom to top:
By scrolling clockwise, you switch between a kind of widget with S Health information (steps, floors, heart rate), calendar, alarm, and so on. They can be sorted in the same way as transferring widgets to Android: hold your finger on it and move it to the desired location. The last tab is reserved for adding new widgets:
The application menu is organized as in the previous version, with icons in a circle. You can scroll through them both with the bezel and with your finger. The first in the menu is the application manager, like in a smartphone:
In the settings section, you can change the dial, screen brightness (10 gradations), screen timeout, enable (or disable) Always On Display, adjust the sound volume (or turn it off), vibration intensity, double-press the Home button, and so on:
For full work, you need to install 4 applications at once: Gear S Plugin, Samsung Accessory Service, Samsung Gear, S Health. The first two are service, the second two are for direct work with the Gear S3 Frontier. Samsung Gear allows you to view the current status of the watch (battery and memory), go to the app store, customize watch faces, notifications, manage apps, transfer music and pictures to the watch, set up emergency calls and messages, and check for new firmware. There is a function to find and lock the clock (the reverse is also available on the S3 Frontier themselves):
All data on physical activity is transmitted to S Health: the number of steps taken, floors, watch the dynamics for the entire time, readings from the heart rate monitor (you can set the frequency of changes or start it from the clock when needed), track the amount and quality of sleep. There is also a competitive aspect. You can make virtual friends in S Health and compare achievements. Some personal achievements are awarded with "achievements":
You can also install quick widgets for different exercises. Some of them are automatically tracked by the watch and automatically starts recording. Strength, for obvious reasons, are not tracked, and when you start the widget, you can simply start the timer, so, for example, with the bench press, the native application will not help much. For more advanced features in the gym, a third-party Workout Trainer application is supported:
What can they do?
Smart watches are increasing functionality, this also applies to the Samsung Gear S3 / S3 Frontier, although they still cannot be called massive because of the impressive cost and the fact that an ordinary user will have enough functionality of a cheap fitness tracker, of which there are a huge number on the market ... For now, smartwatches remain more of a geeky device.
From the usual possibilities, the watch can count the distance traveled, measure the speed of movement, remind that it is time to warm up, automatically determine the type of physical activity (it concerns cardio exercises, of course), count the calories spent, eat separate mode"Stroll". Of course, before starting a workout, you can manually start the corresponding mode on the watch. Gear S3 Frontier is able to measure the heart rate, both in automatic and manual modes. Of course, there is a sleep tracking function (both its quantity and quality depending on the time of restless and light sleep). It is possible to manually add data on the amount of water and coffee drunk to S Health. Of the more unusual and useful functions, there is a baro-altimeter, which shows the current pressure and altitude.
From everyday possibilities, there are notifications from a smartphone and information about incoming call, you can reject the call, send a message or answer directly from the watch (speaker and microphone allow). Alerts can be read in full and a number of messages can be answered immediately from the Gear S3, with S Voice, templates / emoticons and an on-screen keyboard. It is possible to control the smartphone camera, its music player. Or upload music to internal memory hours and use a Bluetooth headset for listening. There are pre-installed apps for weather forecast, notes, calculator, news aggregator, calendar and stopwatch. There is already a decent number of third-party applications for expanding functionality, starting with ordering a taxi and pizza, HERE navigation, Navitel, ordering tickets, Privat24 and ending with simple toys (this is for those who know a lot about perversions).
In the dry residue
Samsung Gear S3 Frontier has become even more functional and technologically advanced than the previous generation. They look even more stylish and really look very much like a regular watch. They are equipped with the maximum currently set of various sensors, sensors and wireless modules (with the exception of support mobile networks in versions for our market, although a version with LTE exists and, in fact, makes the Gear S3 a completely self-contained device). The proprietary software has already become really useful and functional. At the moment, the Gear S3 / S3 Frontier are the most technologically advanced on the market. Plus, they are very high quality made from appropriate materials and look great. The main drawback has not changed since the previous generation: this is the high price for which the user receives a very technological device, but limited in functionality / usefulness.
5 reasons to buy the Samsung Gear S3 Frontier:
- Chic design, materials and build quality;
- the maximum number of various sensors, sensors and wireless interfaces;
- convenient control and Tizen interface;
- functional and convenient software S Health and Samsung Gear;
- an ever-increasing amount of useful software, including local software.
1 reason not to buy the Samsung Gear S3 Frontier:
- high price tag.
| Specifications Samsung Gear S3 Frontier | |
|---|---|
| Display | 1.3 inches, 360x360, Super AMOLED, Gorilla Glass SR + |
| Dimensions (edit) | 49x46x12.9 mm |
| Weight | 63 g |
| Operating system | Tizen Based Wearable Platform 2.3.2 |
| CPU | Exynos 7270 dual-core 14nm (FinFET) processor @ 1 GHz |
| RAM | 768 MB |
| Built-in memory | 4 GB |
| Heart rate monitor | optic |
| Communications | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, GPS, Glonass |
| Protection | IP68, MIL-STD-810G (protection against vibration, shock and temperatures from -40 to +70 ° С) |
| Additionally | Always On Display |
| Battery | 380 mAh |