Samsung Electronics has unveiled at the Mobile World Congress two new smartwatches running the Tizen operating system. Its first devices on the Linux-based OS, the Samsung Gear 2 and Gear 2 Neo come just over six months after its first smartwatch, the Galaxy Gear unveiled in September 2013. The watches again feature a 1.63-inch Amoled screen and choice of five coloured straps, as well as a faster 1.0 GHz dual-core processor. The Neo is the lighter of the two devices, while the Gear 2 comes with a 2.0 megapixel camera, fitted to the body of the device this time rather than the strap.
Users can manage incoming calls and messages on a Samsung phone from the watch and set response notifications. They can also control other consumer electronics, such as as TVs and set-top boxes, through the WatchON Remote application and IrLED sensor, and manage their fitness routine with applications like a heart rate monitor. The new watches also add a music player with Bluetooth headset.
The Samsung Apps store will offer a range of additional applications for the watches based on the Tizen wearable platform. The Samsung Gear 2 and Gear 2 Neo will be available around the world starting from April.
