When Samsung released its Galaxy Gear watch, critics weren’t overly excited about the device, with the main gripe being that it wasn’t groundbreaking. However, regardless of what critics thought, sales number are what really matter, and reports are out that Samsung has moved 800,000 units of the Galaxy Gear in just two months. According to theverge.com:
“Despite strongly negative reviews from almost everyone that cared to touch one, Samsung has shipped 800,000 Galaxy Gear smartwatches in two months. That’s according to a Reuters article quoting Samsung officials, and the lofty figure reportedly makes the Gear the most popular smartwatch in the world. Reuters reports the firm is saying its sales have exceeded its own expectations. The figure is far larger than some analysts’ expectations, and was likely boosted by regional promotions offering large discounts and subsidies for users buying the Gear alongside a Samsung smartphone.
Another big impact on sales was likely marketing. There’s no firm figure on how much money Samsung has spent promoting the Gear, but it’s clear given the pure density of advertisements that it’s a considerable figure. High-profile campaigns involving collaborations with fashion houses, celebrities, and a shanty town rendition of “Royals”don’t come cheap.”
Although it’s great that Samsung has shipped 800,000 Galaxy Gears, it should still be taken into consideration that shipments can be returned if the devices don’t sell. Samsung also still needs to update the Gear to work with more devices than just the Galaxy Note, which would also give it access to a larger potential market.
This upcoming holiday season will really tell how well the Galaxy Gear will do over the long term.
