Press Association –
A smartwatch that can make calls, receive emails and even take photographs has been launched by Samsung.
Galaxy Gear - described as "something out of sci-fi" - was unveiled at a Samsung Unpacked event in Berlin this evening.
The smartwatch allows users to access email, text and even make phone calls - without touching their mobile.
It features speakers and microphones, meaning people speak into and hear from the device on their wrist instead of a handset.
Pranav Mistry, head of Think Tank Team at Samsung Research America, showed off Galaxy Gear during a presentation at the Berlin IFA today, which was live streamed to Times Square in New York.
Mr Mistry said: "This is an exciting time for all of us at Samsung.
"We have created something incredible. You don't need to get your phone out anymore.
"Gear takes the entirety of your digital world and places it right where you can see."
Mr Mistry said Samsung was inspired by a traditional wristwatch with a simple face.
"It is stainless steel but light in weight," he said. "The strap is packed with technology of the next decade."
The watch, which comes in six colours, is comfortable enough to be worn all day, Mr Mistry said.
Users switch it on with a swipe, which unlocks features including apps, contacts, a camera and email.
Incoming messages - such as calls, alerts and emails - show up on the smartwatch and can be accessed on the wrist.
Alternatively, "smart relay" technology means the message will automatically load with a linked larger device, such as a tablet or smartphone.
Mr Mistry said the Gear's call ability allowed users to stay connected while keeping hands truly 'hands-free'.
"You don't need to talk to the air like a bluetooth handset or get your phone out of your pocket," he said.
Galaxy S Voice - voice-activated command technology - allows users to draft messages, create calendar entries, set alarms and check the weather on the watch simply by speaking.
JK Shin, CEO and president of IT and mobile division at Samsung Electronics, said: "Samsung Galaxy Gear benefits consumers by integrating smart device technology even deeper into their everyday lives, and bridges the gap between the mobile device and fashion worlds to create truly wearable technology.
"Samsung Galaxy Gear frees users from the need to constantly check their smart devices while maintaining connections.
"It provides what we call 'smart freedom' by allowing users to choose how, why, when and where they are connected."
Galaxy Gear is designed to be used in unison with the newly announced Note3 and Note 10.1 2014 edition - but will be able to work with other Samsung smartphones and tablet models by October.
It works using Bluetooth up to 10 metres away from the "parent" device.
Galaxy Gear's camera, the Memographer feature, has 1.9 megapixels, capturing pictures and video.
"Memographer is amazing," Mr Mistry said.
"It is an outward facing camera that lets you quickly snap memos and capture precious moments.
"With Gear, we are changing everything."
Gear, which lasts for more than 25 hours with a single charge, also has an inbuilt pedometer for users to monitor their fitness.
The smartwatch will be available in more than 140 countries with the Galaxy Note 3 from September 25.
