Samsung is toughening up its line of wearables with the new Gear S3.
The company unveiled its latest smartwatch on Wednesday at IFA 2016, Europe's annual gadget convention.
The Gear S3 is the company's follow-up device to the sleek Gear S2 model, which CNNMoney has called one of the best smartwatches we've tried to date.
Now, Samsung (SSNLF) is branching out with three outdoors-friendly versions of the S3: the Classic, and the Frontier, which comes in two choices -- an LTE connected model and standard Bluetooth connection only model.
Compared to its predecessor, the latest model is noticeably bigger at almost 2 inches (46mm) in diameter, up from 42mm.
The bulk comes with a bevy of new upgrades for added ruggedness and flair. But the Gear S3 isn't meant to replace the S2. Instead, Samsung is looking to keep both in its product line -- last year's model toward people who prefer a sleeker style.
With its latest addition, Samsung has a lot more options for consumers, which may be more appealing approach compared to the one-style-fits-all Apple Watch.While the Classic design has a stainless steel finish, the Frontier style is more rugged looking. The latter is available with two connectivity options: one that pairs with a phone over Bluetooth and another that works with an LTE subscription, so you can make phone calls and stream music directly to the device.
Samsung has not yet announced pricing or availability. However, the Gear S2 ($300) will still get updates and be sold in stores.
When the Gear S3 launches, there will be thousands of digital watch faces to choose from, as well as ones that users can create themselves.
The smart design approach goes beyond the physical aesthetic, too. The ability for the screen to dim in low-light settings make it easier to see in dark environments and adds a sense of refinement.