Overview
The Samsung Gear S3 (released in 2016) came in two distinct styles—the rugged outdoor-focused Frontier and the polished luxury Classic. It introduced built-in GPS, standalone mobile payments via Samsung Pay (MST and NFC), a rugged military-grade build, and an even larger circular Super AMOLED display.
A comprehensive overview of its design, specifications, software, and pricing details includes:
1. Design and Build
- Form Factor: Premium circular timepiece featuring the signature physical rotating bezel ring paired with textured side pushers.
- Dimensions & Weight: 46 x 49 x 12.9 mm; Weight: ~57g (Classic) / ~63g (Frontier).
- Materials: 316L Stainless Steel case protected by scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass SR+.
- Ingress Protection: IP68 dust and water resistance combined with MIL-STD-810G military standard durability against drops, vibrations, and extreme temperatures.
2. Display Technology
- Main Display: Large circular 1.3-inch Super AMOLED display supporting Always-On Watch functionality with full color depth.
- Resolution: 360 x 360 pixels resolution (~278 ppi).
3. Performance & Software
- Processor: Powered by an efficient Exynos 7270 dual-core 1.0 GHz processor.
- Storage & Memory: 768 MB of RAM with 4 GB of internal storage for music and apps.
- Operating System: Tizen-based wearable platform with native circular UI optimization and voice command support.
4. Sensors, Payments, and Outdoor Features
- Outdoor Sensors: Built-in GPS/GLONASS, altimeter (altitude tracking), barometer (weather changes), and speedometer.
- Health Tracking: Optical heart rate monitor and automatic activity logging.
- Samsung Pay: Supports both NFC and MST (Magnetic Secure Transmission), enabling contactless payments on almost any traditional magnetic credit card reader.
5. Battery and Power Management
- Battery Life: Up to 3 to 4 days of typical everyday use powered by a large 380 mAh rechargeable battery.
- Charging: Wireless magnetic charging dock.
Technical Specifications
Building upon the foundational overview, this technical deep-dive specification sheet provides a granular look at the hardware architecture, display calibrations, sensor arrays, audio profiles, and environmental ratings of the Samsung Gear S3.
1. Detailed Dimensions and Build Quality
- Dimensions: 46 x 49 x 12.9 mm; Weight: ~57g (Classic) / ~63g (Frontier)
- Chassis & Materials: Stainless steel case with Gorilla Glass SR+ cover glass.
- Durability: IP68 waterproof + MIL-STD-810G military certified.
2. Advanced Display Specifications
- Panel Type: Super AMOLED round touch display with rotating bezel control.
- Resolution: 360 x 360 pixels resolution.
3. Processor and Memory Architecture
- System on Chip (SoC): Exynos 7270 Dual-Core 1.0 GHz.
- Memory & Storage: 768 MB RAM with 4 GB internal flash storage.
4. Comprehensive Sensor Suite
- Sensors: Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Heart Rate Monitor, Barometer, Altimeter, Ambient Light.
5. Battery and Power Management
- Battery Capacity: 380 mAh Lithium-ion battery.
- Charging Method: Wireless magnetic charging dock.
6. Connectivity and Networking
- Wireless: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, NFC & MST (Samsung Pay), GPS/GLONASS.