Samsung Unveils Galaxy Gear Smartwatch.
Samsung Unveils Galaxy Gear Smartwatch.
Reflection Paper
The “Samsung Unveils Galaxy Gear Smartwatch” (Cheng & Lee, 2013) introduced characteristics of the new digital watch released by Samsung. The history of previous smartwatches was discussed along with the potential for growth in the future. Additionally, the technological limitations of Galaxy Gear are mentioned as well as questions as to whether or not this gadget will be sucessful among consumers.
Samsung, which has been criticized for ages due to their strategic position as a follower, is trying to climb to the top of the competitive market of high-end devices with an innovative product. In 2009, Samsung decided to pursue a new invention in the mobile phone market. This year, Samsung has returned to the high-end device market with an optimistic outlook (Cheng & Lee, 2013).
Samsung’s new Galaxy Gear introduces a couple of new features to the mobile phone market. Overall the lack of groundbreaking features has high potential to disappoint consumers (Cheng & Lee, 2013). Granted, the Smartwatch is the first major step in the industry towards altering the typical mobile phone experience. If the smartwatch proves to be successful regardless of its lack of features, then the industry will definitely see evolvement of features. The features that Galaxy Gear is debuting with are a 1.9 megapixel camera, built in speakers, and more than 60 preloaded apps (Cheng & Lee, 2013). It is a simple device that is only compatible with the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 for now (Cheng & Lee, 2013).
Galaxy Gear is going to attract specific consumer demographics based on their age and lifestyle. Age is a more obvious factor because the younger generation is significantly more technologically literate and eager to have the latest technology. Samsung sees “Galaxy Gear as a niche product targeting younger, tech-savy early adopters” (Cheng & Lee, 2013). Thus, for teenagers, college students, and young adults this product will be quite popular opposed to middle-aged adults and senior citizens. In addition, due to its athletic supportive apps such as the step-counting pedometer, those who take part in more athletic and fitness activities will appreciate this conveniently accessible tech gadget (Cheng & Lee, 2013).
For Samsung to make the Galaxy Gear widely adopted by the young consumers, it is pivotal to carefully analyze the product’s offering not only as a smart device but also as a watch. Samsung must understand the value of the wearable devices as a fashion item, especially when their main target is the younger consumers whom are highly trend-sensitive. This point is articulated by Mariel Brown, head of trends at design and innovation company Seymourpowell. He states “wearable technology will only take off if it is designed with an eye for fashion” (Sophie