Samsung has recently announced that through the use of a simple app, it is now possible to use a Samsung smart watch with an Apple device. These apps can be found on the Apple App Store and will allow the Samsung Gear S2, Gear S3, and Gear Fit 2 to work with devices such as iPhones. Although Android devices such as the Galaxy S7 and the Note 7 do not work with the Apple watch, Samsung has decided to make a bold move and allow their smart watches to work with competing products.
The apps Samsung have released do not work for every iPhone; however, and not all of the Samsung smart watch features will work seamlessly with Apple products. It has been revealed that the iPhone releases that will work with Samsung smart watches are the iPhone 5, iPhone 5S, iPhone 5C, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6S, iPhone 6S Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, as well as the iPhone SE. These phones can be used as long as they are running iOS 9.0 or above.
"While features and functions will vary by device, iOS users will be able to enjoy the Samsung Gear S3's timeless and stylish design, IP68 water and dust resistance, as well as the built-in GPS, Alti/barometer and Speedometer apps," said Samsung officials in an email to CNET. "Users will also be able to track their fitness by monitoring distance and route traveled, running pace, calories burned and heart rate," they added.
There are a number of advantages to using a Samsung smart watch with an Apple device. For starters, Samsung smart watches look more traditional and can work well dressed up or dressed down. Samsung smart watches also have cellular data capabilities. However, the Apple Watch remains the only smart watch that properly integrates itself with an iOS device, Engadget reported.
The Gear S3 is noticeably larger compared to the Apple Watch. Samsung's offering weighs 57 grams or 62 grams depending on the model. On the other hand, the Apple Watch only weighs around 50 grams.
Watch a comparison of the Apple smartwatch and the Samsung Gear S2 here: