Samsung has ditched Android as the OS for its latest smartwatch range. The Samsung Gear 2 and Gear 2 Neo, unveiled today ahead of Mobile World Congress, will instead use the Tizen OS.

The Gear 2 features a 2 megapixel camera which is built into the 1.63 inch, 320 x 320 pixel AMOLED screen, making the device less bulky than its Gear predecessor. Processing power comes courtesy of a 1GHz Dual-Core processor, with 4GB of storage. The Gear 2 Neo shares a similar specification, but comes without the camera.

The smartwatches feature an integrated heart rate monitor, but disappointingly, neither have GPS built in, so anyone wanting to use them with fitness apps for running or cycling will need to take their phone with them. They do, however, feature a standalone music player, which works independently of the partner phone. Both devices can also control electronic products such as TVs and set-top boxes.

The devices come with strap colours including charcoal black, gold brown and wild orange for the Gear 2, while the Gear 2 Neo comes with the same strap options, but with mocha grey replacing gold brown. The home screen background, clock face and font are also user customizable. The watches go on sale in April.
“Samsung continues to lead innovation in the wearable market by creating devices that are completely integrated into the lives of consumers through extended connectivity features, stylish customization options and a robust application ecosystem,” said JK Shin, CEO and president of Samsung’s IT & Mobile Division. “With the Samsung Gear 2 and Gear 2 Neo, we have enhanced everything consumers love about the Gear to offer unparalleled smart freedom in their everyday life.”