Samsung's 3G Gear S could pave the way for the smartphones of the future

Samsung has revealed its Gear S, a Tizen-powered smartwatch that has a curved display and can take a SIM card. The Gear S can use 3G networks for texting, emailing and Web-browsing.

Phone calls too are possible by pairing the smartwatch to a Bluetooth headset that, when not in use, magnetically clips around the neck. Samsung call this the Gear Circle.

The Gear S supports additional connectivity technologies, including Bluetooth 4.1 and single-band Wi-Fi (802.11n).

Wrapping around wrists is a curved 2-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 360x480. A 1GB dual-core CPU delivers the computing power, alongside 512MB of RAM and 4GB of internal storage. Powering the smartwatch is a 300 milliamp-hour battery, which Samsung claims will help the Gear S last for two days before needing a charge.

On-board GPS coupled with support for the Nike + Running application could see the Gear S smartwatch appeal to exercise enthusiasts. Navigation is possible with support from HERE maps.

Samsung said in a statement the Gear S will commence a global roll out, which includes sales in retail stores and carriers, from October, 2014.

Rival LG unveiled its second smartwatch with the G Watch R. The circular screened smartwatch runs Android's Wear operating system, has a heart sensor and is water resistant.

Specs for the smartwatch follow as per Samsung’s press release:

• Network: 900/2100 or 850/1900 (3G), 900/1800 or 850/1900 (2G)
• Display: 2.0” Super AMOLED (360 x 480)
• CPU: Dual core 1.0 GHz
• OS: Tizen based wearable platform
• IP certification: IP67 Certified Dust and Water Resistant
• Connectivity: WiFi: 802.11 b/g/n, A-GPS/Glonass, Bluetooth®: 4.1, USB: USB 2.0
• Sensor: Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Compass, Heart Rate, Ambient Light, UV, Barometer
• Memory: RAM: 512MB, Storage: 4GB Internal Memory
• Dimension: 39.8 x 58.3 x 12.5T
Battery life: 300mAh Li-ion, Typical usage 2 days