Most smartwatches suffer from pretty poor battery life. But Samsung’s next device could last longer than others, thanks to one neat trick.
The 3G-connected Gear S2 Classic – which Samsung has announced will go on sale in the UK in March – will feature an eSIM. As a result, it won’t require a physical SIM card, but instead will use an electronic one. Why? you might ask. Because it saves space internally, space that Samsung may choose to use to put in a bigger battery.
We know – a nano-SIM isn’t exactly the bulkiest piece of technology we’ve ever seen. But when you’re dealing with a slim smartwatch, every millimetre counts.
A more sizeable battery isn’t the only benefit.
The GSMA has just set a new eSIM specification for smartwatches, fitness trackers and tablets. The Gear S2 Classic isn’t the first device to offer this technology – certain iPads provide the same using Apple’s own tech. However, Samsung’s offering is the first consumer wearable to meet the new standard.
The standard for eSIMs in smartphones will be announced in June.
The new spec is backed by some of the world’s largest tech companies, including LG, Microsoft, Huawei and, of course, Samsung. Networks such as Vodafone, AT&T, Deutsche Telekom, Telefonica and EE also support it.
Related: Samsung Gear S2 review
The GSMA is hailing this as the dawn of a new age in tech, one that gives consumers more control over their devices.
The Gear S2 Classic was unveiled back in September, but it wasn’t available in the UK at that time. Next month represents our first opportunity to purchase the device on these shores.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.