Samsung Gear S3 Frontier The Ultimate Smartwatch Guide

Overview

The Samsung Gear S3 Frontier, announced in August 2016 and released in November 2016, remains one of Samsung's standout entries in the smartwatch market. Despite its discontinuation, it still holds a place in the hearts of gadget enthusiasts and tech aficionados. Engineered with a focus on durability and functionality, the Gear S3 Frontier offers a rugged design accompanied by advanced technical features.

Design and Build

The Gear S3 Frontier is distinct with its robust and masculine design. Measuring 49 x 46 x 12.9 mm and weighing 63 g, the smartwatch balances both aesthetic appeal and ergonomic design. The exterior features a stainless steel 316L frame coupled with Gorilla Glass 3 on the front, enhancing its durability. This makes the device suitable for those with an active lifestyle or those who simply appreciate a solidly built smartwatch.

Display

The device sports a 1.3-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 360 x 360 pixels, translating to a pixel density of approximately 278 ppi. This ensures vibrant colors and sharp images on the smartwatch's screen. Corning Gorilla Glass SR+ provides additional protection to the display against scratches and drops.

Specifications and Performance

The Gear S3 Frontier operates on Tizen OS 5.5, leveraging the Exynos 7 Dual 7270 chipset. The dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A53 processor ensures smooth performance for most day-to-day tasks one can expect from a smartwatch. However, its 768MB RAM and internal storage of 4GB, without an expandable card slot, might feel limited for users who wish to store more apps or media locally.

Connectivity and Communication

The Gear S3 Frontier provides robust connectivity features, albeit with no cellular connectivity. It supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.2 with A2DP and LE, ensuring strong wireless connections. The inclusion of NFC allows for contactless payments with Samsung Pay, broadening its utility for everyday interactions. Geo-positioning services are enhanced with GPS and GLONASS, making it reliable for navigation and fitness tracking.

Audio and Sensors

The smartwatch includes a loudspeaker but lacks a 3.5mm audio jack, which aligns with the modern trend of wireless audio solutions. Its sensor suite is comprehensive: accelerometer, gyro, heart rate monitor, and barometer. These sensors extend its capability to track physical activities, monitor health metrics, and provide environmental readings, enhancing its value as a fitness companion.

Battery

Equipped with a non-removable Li-Ion 380 mAh battery, the Gear S3 Frontier offers a reliable battery life, promising up to 72 hours on standby in 3G-connected settings. Its wireless charging feature (Qi standard) adds a layer of convenience, eliminating the need for cable connections and simplifying the recharging process.

Durability and Extra Features

The Gear S3 Frontier's rugged build and choice of materials contribute to its durability. It's designed to withstand the vagaries of daily use and the challenges of more adventurous outings. While the absence of a camera limits its multimedia functionalities, its primary focus remains on utility and effectiveness as a companion device.

Pricing and Availability

Originally priced at approximately 210 EUR, the Samsung Gear S3 Frontier positioned itself as a premium smartwatch within its category. Although it has been formally discontinued, the device can still be found through various third-party retailers and marketplaces, often at discounted rates.

Conclusion

The Samsung Gear S3 Frontier, with its robust design and a suite of practical features, still represents a compelling choice for those seeking a reliable smartwatch. While newer models from Samsung provide more advanced technologies and features, the Gear S3 Frontier remains a noteworthy option for those prioritizing durability and essential smartwatch functionalities. Whether for leisure, fitness, or as a fashion statement, it continues to serve as a lovable piece of technology in the wearables market.