Samsung smartwatch plans exposed

4.0 k views | Posted August 13, 2013 | By Emily Mobbs • Former Editor

More details of Samsung’s smartwatch plans have emerged, following the discovery of trademark and patent filings in the US and Korea.

According to BBC News, South Korean technology website, Moveplayer, has unearthed three slightly different design patents that provide insight into what the device could look like.

One reportedly shows a gadget with a flexible screen that wraps around the wrist, with other parts made of metal and synthetic materials. The documents were also said to reveal that the device would provide access to the internet, be able to make and receive phone calls, emails and texts, and store personal information.

Furthermore, one end of the display features a small panel with a back arrow and home keys, said to be similar in design to those found on the company’s original Galaxy S android handset. The screen can also reportedly be attached to different straps to accommodate varying wrist sizes.

The design shows a flexible screen that wraps around the wrist

Other documents reveal that the technology giant has registered the name “Samsung Gear” in South Korea and “Samsung Galaxy Gear” in the US.

As previously reported by Jeweller, the South Korean-based company confirmed earlier this year that is was making a smartwatch. More details about its plans, however, have been kept under wraps.

Some analysts have commented that Samsung might launch its smartwatch as early as next month, when the company has a scheduled press event.

Samsung will be competing with several other technology companies who have either released or have alluded to releasing a smartwatch. Jeweller reported that Sony recently made development upgrades to its SmartWatch and rumours continue to circle regarding Apple’s plans for an iWatch. The technology giant is said to have applied to trademark the name “iWatch” in several countries.

More reading:
Samsung fires shot in smartwatch war
Apple applies for iWatch trademark
Apple CEO hints at smartwatch
Sony opens SmartWatch to developers