When Samsung launched the Galaxy Gear smartwatch earlier this month, its status as a niche device was made even more apparent by its lack of compatibility with all but two of Samsung’s smartphones and tablets. As the month comes to a close, Samsung has finally shared its plans to expand Galaxy Gear compatibility to a wider range of handsets, including the Galaxy S4, Galaxy S3 and Galaxy Note II. Samsung says that the Premium Suite software update, which also includes Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, will start rolling out in the coming weeks. The Galaxy S4 mini and Galaxy Mega will also receive the update further down the road. Samsung’s full press release follows below.
Samsung Expands Galaxy Gear Compatibility to Iconic Galaxy Smartphones
Premium Suite software package includes Android update, new functionality and KNOX support
October 28, 2013 11:00 AM Eastern Daylight TimeDALLAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile) announced today that the Samsung Galaxy S® 4, Galaxy Note® II and Galaxy S® III will receive the Premium Suite software update in the coming weeks that makes the devices compatible with Samsung Galaxy Gear. Premium Suite timing and features vary by carrier and product, with updates beginning today.
Galaxy Gear extends the Galaxy smartphone experience to your wrist and enhances everyday moments with real time updates for quick and convenient access. Now, owners of the latest Galaxy smartphones will be able to stay connected with discreet notifications and tap into the exceptional features of Galaxy Gear, such as hands-free calling, music control and S Voice™ access.
In addition to Galaxy Gear compatibility, Samsung’s Premium Suite will bring Android 4.3 and additional features to these premiere smartphones. The update brings the flagship experiences introduced on the Galaxy S 4 to the Galaxy Note II and Galaxy S III including updated Easy Mode, Multi Window™, advanced camera options, and additional features with new functionality.
All of the smartphones receiving the update are SAFE™ (Samsung for Enterprise), giving users the confidence that their device is suitable for use in the workplace. Additionally, the devices will be ready for KNOX™, Samsung’s comprehensive solution that enhances Android security from the hardware layer to the application layer and allows users to safely and efficiently separate work and personal data on a single device.
The Galaxy S® 4 mini and Galaxy Mega™ will also receive an update in the coming months to be compatible with Galaxy Gear.
Timing for Premium Suite and features in software updates will vary by wireless carrier and product. For the most up to date information on update timing and availability by product and carrier, please check with your carrier and visit http://www.samsungmobileuspress.com.
Samsung, Galaxy, Galaxy S, Galaxy Note, Galaxy Mega, S Voice, Multi Window, SAFE and KNOX are all trademarks of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Android and Google Play are trademarks of Google Inc. Other company names, product names and marks mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners and may be trademarks or registered trademarks. Galaxy Gear is a companion device for select Galaxy smartphones, sold separately.
About Samsung Telecommunications America
Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC, (Samsung Mobile) a Dallas-based subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., researches, develops and markets wireless handsets, wireless infrastructure and other telecommunications products throughout North America. For more information, please visit http://www.samsung.com.
About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in technology, opening new possibilities for people everywhere. Through relentless innovation and discovery, we are transforming the worlds of televisions, smartphones, personal computers, printers, cameras, home appliances, LTE systems, medical devices, semiconductors and LED solutions. We employ 270,000 people across 79 countries with annual sales of US$187.8 billion. To discover more, please visit http://www.samsung.com.
About Samsung SAFE™
SAFE™: “SAFE™” (Samsung for Enterprise) is a mark for a Samsung device which has been tested against Samsung’s own internal criteria for interoperability with certain third-party security-related solutions for MDM and VPN. The testing includes field testing with local network connection and menu tree testing, which tests functionality of the solutions in conjunction with the Samsung device. During the testing, the device is tested with the security solutions to see if the solutions work with the device as described by the third-party security solution providers. The testing, for example, includes field testing with local network connection and menu tree testing, which tests functionality of the solutions in conjunction with the Samsung device. For more information about Samsung’s SAFE™ program, please refer to http://www.samsung.com/us/safe.
