Gemalto, Tuesday announced that it has provided its embedded subscriber identification module (eSIM) solution to Samsung for the launch of their latest Gear S2 smartwatch. Gemalto said that the solution will allow users to securely connect to cellular networks to make voice and data calls, check emails and notifications, or access applications, directly from their wrist, without being tethered to their smartphones.
Samsung, last month unveiled the new '11.4-millimeter thin' Samsung Gear S2 smartwatch which comes with 3G connectivity.
The new Samsung Gear S2 https://t.co/VgratvQIXB via @YouTube
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According to Gemalto, the wearables market is poised for a rapid growth with worldwide shipments set to exceed 126 million units by 2019 . Many smart wearables are coming to market, driven by consumer demand for a more convenient and connected lifestyle. Gemalto cited a survey conducted across five countries – China, Germany, South Korea, UK, and the US, which found that 56% of smartphone owners say that cellular connectivity is an important factor in buying a smartwatch.
Suzanne Tong-Li, President for Greater China and Korea at Gemalto
This is yet another milestone in our successful cooperation with Samsung, following the recent launch of Samsung Pay in Europe. As the Internet of Things evolves and focus shifts towards smart wearables that go beyond reporting and monitoring, we will support Samsung to design many more innovative products to reach specific markets.
