Tuesday, February 3, 2015

Samsung Gear S review: can a smartwatch with a phone built-in replace a smartphone?

Samsung’s Gear S claims to be unique among smartwatches. More than simply a second screen for a smartphone, it is a full mobile phone strapped to the wrist – no need for a separate handset for an internet connection. 
It is capable of emailing, sending text messages and making phone calls but can a 2in screen on the arm really replace a smartphone? To find out I wore a Gear S for a week and attempted to leave the smartphone at home.
So how did it go? Well, it didn’t start well … the first thing you notice when breaking the Gear S out of the box is that you can’t actually use it without a smartphone. Despite having its own access to the internet, you need an Android smartphone – a Samsung one to boot – to actually set it up.
The Gear manager app configures email accounts, installs apps and customises the look and feel of the watch. It’s disappointing to have to resort to a smartphone to do this basic stuff.

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