Samsung Electronics has announced mass production of the Exynos 7 Dual 727 mobile application processor (AP) designed specifically for wearable devices with 14nm FinFET process technology. Powered by two Cortex-A53 cores, the Exynos 7270 makes full use of the 14nm process, delivering 20% improvement in power efficiency when compared to its predecessor built on 28nm, and thus notably extending the battery life, Samsung said. By integrating Cat.4 LTE 2CA modem, the new AP allows wearables to connect to a cellular service as a stand-alone device. Tethering and data transfer between devices is also possible with its embedded WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. In addition, integrated connectivity capabilities support FM radio, and location-based services with GNSS (global navigation satellite system) solutions.

Apple has introduced the Apple Watch Series 2, with fitness and health capabilities including a water resistance 50 meter rating for swimming, and built-in GPS so users can now run without an iPhone. The Apple Watch Series 2 features a dual-core processor. Combined with the performance enhancements of watchOS 3, the Apple Watch Series 2 makes it easier to access third-party apps, receive and respond to notifications and use Apple Pay. The Apple Watch Series 2 will be available in more than 25 countries beginning September 16. The Apple Watch Series 2 is rated water resistant 50 meters for swimming, surfing or just playing in the pool. Apple Watch Series 2 can count laps, track average lap pace and auto-detect stroke type to accurately measure active calorie burn. With built-in GPS, the Apple Watch Series 2 records distance, pace and speed for outdoor workouts such as walking, running or cycling, without needing to take an iPhone. Users can begin an outdoor workout immediately as the Apple Watch Series 2 uses Wi-Fi, GPS and locally stored satellite data to quickly identify their location. On completion of an outdoor workout, view a route map that shows variations in speed in the Activity app on iPhone. Whether running, going for a swim or walking between meetings, the Activity app on the Apple Watch Series 2 counts all daily activity towards the Stand, Move and Exercise rings.