On the road at the SAMSUNG Unpacked Event at the IFA Berlin in the Tempodrom. Traditionally, the IFA Consumer Electronics Show in Berlin does not begin on the official opening day, as this year on Friday 02.09.2016 – but with some special events in advance. So also SAMSUNG invites this year already on 31.08.2016 in the Berlin Tempodrom for the SAMSUNG Unpacked Event “TalkAbout3”. As the name and the invitation already reveals, everything revolves around the new smartwatch from Samsung – the Gear S3 – the successor to the well-known Gear S2 series, which I myself have presented to you in several blogposts on my lifestyle blog.

SAMSUNG Gear S3 – SAMSUNG Unpacked Event IFA Berlin at the Tempodrom

Via Snapchat and Instagram Stories I have taken you of course again directly to the SAMSUNG Unpacked Events and you could so get a first impression directly of the smartwatches from Samsung and the IFA SAMSUNG Unpacked Event at the Tempodrom in Berlin.

The new flagships from Samsung are not only further developments of the well-known Samsung Gear S2 series, but also a completely new, additional orientation. While men in particular were still told that the Gear S2 Classic series models were relatively small and would look too small on large arms, the new models in the Gear S3 series – the “Classic” and “Frontier” models – have become larger.

The display of the watch has increased from 1.2 inches (about 3.0 cm) to 1.3 inches (about 3.2cm), the case has become slightly thicker and the weight is between 57 and 62 grams depending on the model.

Already during the SAMSUNG Unpacked presentation, it can be seen that the new models look high-quality – the casing is now made of 316L steel, and the underside with the various sensors is made of plastic. Overall, a lot has changed in the new generation of Samsung Gear S3 smartwatches and has been added as a new feature:

IP68 certification / Waterproof to 1.5 meters – up to 30 minutes (similar to Samsung Galaxy S7, S7edge and Note7 models).
GPS sensor
Barometer
Accelerometer
Air pressure/barometer
LTE phone feature (not available in all countries).
The battery has been increased to 380mAh
Always-on feature now also with all colors on the smartwatch
Wristband width increased from 20mm to 22mm (all standard 22mm width wristbands will fit these watches)
New dimensions of the watch – 46x49x12,9mm
Weight 62g (Frontier edition), weight 57g (Classic edition).

At first impression, you not only feel that the watch has grown up due to its dimensions, but also the many new features and special design make the new Samsung Gear S3 series not only an interesting smartwatch, but a full-fledged “Watch”.

SAMSUNG Unpacked – SAMSUNG Gear S3 – Frontier and Classic

Both models appeal to an expanded customer base – while the Classic in particular embodies the impression of a classic chronograph with its shiny metal case and silver buttons, the design of the Frontier series appeals to action fans who like things a bit flashier. Whether it’s a croc-print leather strap or a rubber-rubber strap on the Frontier series, the possibilities are endless, which is what makes these watches so interesting.

While from my point of view, the Classic version with a light-colored strap should look particularly good, it is mainly the version with an eye-catching red rubber/rubber strap on the Frontier series and the all-black series that almost looks a bit “evil”. Samsung knows how to expand the portfolio and therefore leaves the Gear S2 series in the program as well.

In addition to the sports watch “Gear S2”, as I presented it to you in white, there also continues to be the series in “Rose-gold” with a white strap (my favorite of the S2 series).

SAMSUNG Gear S3 – GPS, barometer, weather warning, loudspeaker

If you’re on the go a lot, you’ll absolutely appreciate the features like GPS and barometer. No longer having to carry a smartphone to record the running or cycling distance, but recording all the necessary data directly on the watch.

The existing barometer should additionally be able to inform users about spontaneous weather changes and provide more safety, especially for active people in the mountains. A good idea, just like the SOS function that can already be used in the USA, Canada and South Korea.

The enlarged battery of the smartwatch is now supposed to last up to four days despite additional sensors and always-on display.

Likewise, the new series of Samsung Gear S3 smartwatches now has a microphone and speaker, so the use of Spotify etc. is also possible without major problems during sports or as a hands-free function when driving. Especially this function I find very advantageous, without having to access the smartphone again, directly answer the call and be able to speak immediately.

CONCLUSION – SAMSUNG Unpacked Event – SAMSUNG Gear S3 first impression

Samsung’s new models look very high-quality and clearly improved compared to the Gear S2 series at the first impression at the SAMSUNG Unpacked Event and make you want to go on your first excursions and explorations.

I have become accustomed to a recording of steps and pulse in the last year, but how many meters of altitude I have covered on some days and events, I would be interested.

Of course, it would be nice if Samsung Pay would be possible as a payment option in Germany at some point. In the review, it was really easy to implement and the virtual chocolates were quickly paid for at the checkout. Unfortunately, there is no date for the implementation of Samsung Pay in Germany yet, so I will have to do without the chocolates until then… 😉

I am curious what experiences I will make in the next few weeks, when I can test the watch (s) for you once longer and more extensively. According to current information, both models should cost under 400 EUR, the prices for the Gear S2 series should be slightly lowered and available should be the new models of the Gear S3 series from Samsung from mid-October. Of course, you will receive updates in the social media channels as soon as I have more information.

For me, the start with the SAMSUNG Unpacked Event of the IFA Berlin in the Tempodrom in Berlin was again a great mood for the IFA 2016 in Berlin and I look forward to many more great moments and interesting conversations…