Samsung Gear Live
| Industry | Consumer electronics |
|---|---|
| Founded | March 1, 1938 in Daegu, South Korea |
| Headquarters | Suwon , South Korea |
| Products | Smartwatches, smartphones, tablets, televisions, semiconductors |
| Owner | Samsung Group |
| Website | www |
Samsung Gear Live
The Samsung Gear Live is a smartwatch operating on the Android Wear platform, jointly introduced and launched by Samsung and Google on June 25, 2014. It debuted alongside the LG G Watch as one of the initial devices showcasing Android Wear, a tailored version of Android created specifically for wearable technology such as smartwatches. As the fifth addition to the Samsung Gear lineup, the Gear Live supports all smartphones running Android 4.3 or later versions that feature Bluetooth Smart connectivity.
At launch, the Gear Live was priced at US$199 in both the United States and Canada, available through the Google Play Store. In the United Kingdom, it retailed for £169 via Google's Play Store. By July 2014, its availability had expanded to include markets such as Australia, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, South Korea, and Spain.
Hardware
This device holds an IP67 rating, ensuring protection against dust and water ingress. It is encased in a steel frame and comes with a 22mm strap that users can easily replace themselves. The watch is equipped with a power button as well as a heart rate sensor.
Software
The notification framework utilizes Google Now technology, allowing it to receive, interpret, and execute voice commands provided by the user.
Reception
JR Raphael from Computerworld favored the Gear Live's bright display over that of the LG G Watch, appreciating its more unique design and integrated heart rate monitor. However, he criticized its limited visibility in sunlight, inconvenient charging mechanism, uncomfortable wristband, and the inclusion of an unnecessary pre-installed stopwatch app.