Although most users can now check out the new Samsung flagship wearable, fans in the US have yet to get their hands on the Gear S3. This is bound to change this month, as it is confirmed that pre-orders for the new smartwatch will start on Nov. 6.
According to the press release from the South Korea-based tech giant, both versions of the new smartwatch, the Gear S3 Frontier and the Gear S3 Classic, will be available for pre-orders starting Nov. 6. The general release date for the new lineups will start on Nov. 18.
The base version of the Gear S3 will have a $350 price tag and will be available on both wireless providers and third-party retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Macy's. It is also confirmed that fans can purchase the Gear S3 directly from Samsung's online store.
The US release of the Gear S3 has been delayed, likely because of the unique bands for US carriers. However, the launch of the new wearable in the market indicates that the Gear S3 is already certified for US LTE bands. The announcement listed the smartwatch as certified LTE4 version for the step-up Gear S3 Frontier from carriers AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.
Gary Riding, senior vice president of Product Marketing at Samsung Electronics America, confirmed it: "With the LTE capability of Gear S3 it is easy to make or receive phone calls and read or reply to texts and notifications, so they can stay connected while leaving their phone behind."
However, even with the timely release of the new wearable, the Samsung Gear S3 still faces stiff competition in the US market. Phone Arena observes that with the announced price tag, it will be difficult for Samsung to entice US fans, as the Gear S3 has other competitors like the Asus Zenwatch 3, which is priced at $229.
