Samsung has finally shared availability details for its Gear S3 smartwatches in the US. However, the new details suggest that the sales will be limited to devices that will be sold via Amazon and Best Buy, and Samsung itself. The new smartwatch will also be available from AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. However, the release and pricing details will be decided by those carriers in this case.
Now, AT&T has released details about the new LTE-capable Gear S3 frontier model. The carrier has started taking pre-orders for the new smartwatch. While AT&T did not reveal the availability details, the release dates are expected to match Samsung’s i.e. November 18.
You can purchase the Samsung Gear S3 Frontier model on AT&T Next using its installment plan (20 monthly payments of $17.50), or for $49.99 by signing a two-year contract with the purchase of a new Samsung Galaxy handset on AT&T Next. However, this price only applicable for users who also buy a Galaxy smartphone on AT&T Next.
T-Mobile has also listed the Gear S3 Frontier model on its official website, however, it mentions “Coming Soon” and no pre-order or pricing details available. Verizon is also expected to release the Gear S3, however, the carrier has not confirmed it officially.
The Best Buy website lists the Gear 3 at $349.49 and now accepting pre-orders. However, there is no expected shipping date mentioned. Amazon is yet to list the Gear S3.
The Samsung Gear S3 comes in two models – Classic and Frontier. The new smartwatch is a direct successor to the Gear S2 smartwatch. It comes with a rotatable dial to control the Tizen-powered device apart from the touchscreen. It supports over 1,000 watch faces. The Gear S3 comes with IP68 certification. It comes with military-grade protection and standalone LTE. The new smartwatch is designed to work efficiently even without a smartphone. Connectivity options include GPS, barometer, NFC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, plus a microphone and speaker to handle calls.
The Samsung Gear S3 Frontier smartwatch sports 1.3-inch circular display with a resolution of 360 x 360 pixels. It uses standard 22mm straps. The smartwatch is powered by an Exynos processor along with 768MB of RAM, and 4GB internal storage. It is backed by a 380mAh battery, which claims to last up to three to four days.