Samsung Electronics is set to release its Galaxy Fit 3 smart band early next year, marking the revival of its healthcare wearable devices after a four-year hiatus.
Industry sources revealed on Dec. 6 that Samsung has confirmed the release of the Galaxy Fit 3 for the first half of next year with an expected shipment of around 1 million units. The Galaxy Fit, a sports band focused on tracking physical activity, simplifies features from the smartwatch-like Galaxy Watch series while offering a more affordable price point. There was speculation that Samsung might discontinue its smart band line after the Galaxy Fit 2, released in October 2020.
The new product launch is likely to occur separately from the Galaxy Unpacked event scheduled for January next year. Samsung has traditionally alternated between unveiling Galaxy smartphones and wearable devices like Galaxy Watch and Buds at its biannual Unpacked events.
The new model is expected to feature an enlarged display and enhanced health measurement and fitness functions, essentially functioning as a “beginner’s Galaxy Watch.” Samsung is significantly boosting the health features in its smartwatches.
With the imminent expansion of the future Extended Reality (XR) device market, Samsung aims to increase its wearable market share to lock users into its device ecosystem. Apple currently leads the wearable device market with a 45% share in the last quarter, followed by Samsung (18%) and China’s Huawei (14%).
Reintroducing the Galaxy Fit, well-received for its cost-effectiveness, is expected to increase Samsung’s market share and draw users into its healthcare ecosystem. Despite its affordability, the Galaxy Fit 2 gained popularity for its performance and compatibility with Samsung Health, commanding prices up to four times its launch price in the market after discontinuation rumors, indicating a substantial fan base.