Monthly Archives: August 2023

Samsung and Google Combine Forces in New Mixed Reality Partnership

Samsung made a lot of impressive announcements during its Galaxy S23 launch event last week. But an out-of-the-blue partnership with Qualcomm and Google on an upcoming mixed-reality platform certainly caught fans off guard. The new “XR” technology is an umbrella term for the intersection of AR, VR and mixed reality, or MR. 

This story is part of Samsung Event, CNET’s collection of news, tips and advice around Samsung’s most popular products.

In a year that’ll see a new PlayStation VR headset, a new HTC Vive VR headset, a new Meta VR headset and likely a first-ever Apple VR headset, how will this Samsung product (or products) end up changing the game, and when could it arrive?

Watch this: Samsung Galaxy S23 Event: Everything Revealed

11:20

Samsung’s on-stage announcement was incredibly vague, with Google’s Hiroshi Lockheimer, head of Android, and Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon promising new hardware and software that’ll bring new experiences. But Samsung’s and Google’s histories in VR (and AR), along with Qualcomm’s major presence in the field, can point to some answers. So, too, can the last major Google and Samsung partnership two years ago, on smartwatches.

More on Samsung Unpacked

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In 2021, Google’s partnership with Samsung began a rethinking of its smartwatch lineup, which also led to a Pixel Watch last fall. It’s likely that this new Samsung-Google-Qualcomm partnership could play out in a similar way in AR and VR. In this instance, though, both Google and Samsung will be making long-overdue returns to the VR/AR spaces they’ve both stepped away from for several years.

Here’s why Samsung and Google entering the field makes sense, and is even sorely needed.

Samsung’s Gear VR headset worked with phones. But back then, the phone was the VR display.

Juan Garzon/CNET

VR and AR needs to work with phones again

VR goggles used to work with phones, half a decade ago. Back in the days of the Samsung Gear VR and Google’s Daydream View, you’d drop a phone into a cheap set of goggles that would use the device as a VR screen. It was a fun novelty back then, and greatly expanded access, but also had its limits. In 2023, oddly, VR headsets barely work with phones at all.

It’s annoying because most of us live our lives on our phones. VR, meanwhile, tends to stand alone. The Meta Quest 2 has slowly developed hooks into phones via its pairing app, but doesn’t have nearly enough cross-device intelligence. 

Qualcomm has been trying to solve this idea already on its own. Via an early wave of AR glasses and certain Android phones, the company has been developing tools to bridge apps and experiences, and also have glasses directly connected to phones.

That’s a lot easier to do with official Android support. Google would enable that, and this Samsung-Qualcomm-Google partnership seems like a key to exploring how that would work with new VR headsets, or AR glasses, or both.

The Meta Quest 2 is the current standard for VR headsets. It’s likely Samsung and Google would build from this form.

James Martin/CNET

Right now, VR is the future. Then, AR

No one’s perfected AR glasses yet, although the hardware pieces are slowly coming together. In the meantime, standalone VR headsets using built-in cameras to show “passthrough” video of the real world, with virtual reality experiences overlaid, is the fastest solution to AR. It’s also called “mixed reality,” and it’s what the Meta Quest Pro does in some apps. Apple’s upcoming mixed reality headset should work the same way. HTC’s Vive XR Elite coming this February? Same thing.

I’d expect Samsung and Google to start with developing a similar lightweight VR headset with mixed reality features first, using similar Qualcomm chips as other hardware (or a next-gen chipset). After that, AR glasses.

Qualcomm has already promised a new generation of low-power wireless AR glasses that will work with next-gen phones over the next three years, using a new AR2 Gen 1 chipset announced last fall. Samsung’s Google partnership might also involve exploring how to build phones and glasses that could work together in the years to come.

Google’s already dipping its toes into assistive AR glasses research, and has a decade of experience in AR and VR before that. Samsung has all of its experience with the Gear VR and working with Oculus. Between the two, along with Qualcomm, it seems like there’s plenty of team wisdom.

The Google Pixel Watch, and Samsung Galaxy Watch 4. What will Samsung and Google’s VR/AR products end up looking like?

Lexy Savvides/CNET

A new OS (think smartwatches)

Evolving Android into a new software experience for VR and AR is the biggest challenge and opportunity, and it would make a ton of sense for Samsung to lean on Google here. VR headsets of the last five years have tried to go it alone with dedicated app stores, much like the Meta Quest. But the whole spirit of the idea of “the metaverse” is cross-device compatibility. And, in theory, easy app support. 

Samsung shifted strategy on its watches by adopting Google’s WearOS as part of a partnership announced two years ago, aiming to bring Samsung’s watches closer to Google’s Android OS. But Samsung also helped Google think about higher-end health and hardware features to advance its aging smartwatch lineup. Which brings us to…

A road to Pixel hardware?

At some point, you’d imagine, Google will try to make its own AR/VR hardware again. The team behind Google’s Daydream, led by Clay Bavor, has shifted focus into Google Labs, working on more experimental projects like Project Starline (and those research-based assistive AR glasses). 

It seems highly likely that the road to Google’s future XR hardware will run through Samsung in much the same way as smartwatches ahead of the Pixel Watch. The Galaxy Watch 4 became the first experiment in Wear OS 3, and then Google entered the waters over a year later with a Fitbit-infused Pixel Watch. 

AR and VR headsets are significantly more complicated. Maybe Google waits a bit longer on a Pixel device. Maybe, as both Google’s Lockheimer and Qualcomm’s Amon seemed to suggest, there will be a variety of forms and possibilities, including some that aren’t headsets at all. Remember: Google’s idea of “ambient computing” involves immersive tech from every angle, including stuff that isn’t worn.

What year will this emerge?

That’s the hard question here. It seems likely that Google will dive into this partnership more at its I/O developer conference that usually happens in May, which would be right before Apple would likely go over its VR headset at WWDC. We haven’t seen any hint of any actual hardware yet. It’s not impossible that a standalone VR headset in the spirit of the Meta Quest could materialize sometime sooner than later, but it would be a huge surprise if anything arrived in 2023.

When Samsung and Google announced the Wear OS 3 partnership in 2021, it came with a teaser photo of the watch itself and a promise of hardware by year’s end. No such statements were made or shown this time and 2024 would seem like the earliest likely launch date.

And at any rate, 2023 is looking like a turbulent year for the greater XR world. While plenty of VR hardware is coming, it’s unclear who can actually afford it. For Samsung and Google, the best bet might be to wait out this crowded year and figure out how to make improved, possibly more affordable hardware in 2024.

The ultimate VR headset buyer’s guide

Design High End

The absolute best-quality VR experiences can’t be powered by a mobile phone. The Oculus Rift, Valve and HTC’s Vive, and Sony PlayStation VR — the three high-end headsets we’re currently waiting for — all run off external computers or game consoles. This means that they can offer sophisticated features like motion tracking, high-resolution screens, and the best graphics possible. They’re also generally more comfortable, better at blocking outside light, and less prone to inducing motion sickness. But they won’t be released until later this year, and for now, they’re expensive and intended mostly for early adopters.

Up-front price High End

By almost any metric, high-end headsets cost a lot. The Oculus Rift is $599, plus the still-unknown cost of its motion controllers. The HTC Vive is $799. The one headset that we don’t know anything about right now is PlayStation VR. Early price estimates for both the Rift and Vive were way off — people underestimated the former and overestimated the latter — so we’ll refrain from making any guesses on PSVR. But we know it’s going to be “several hundred dollars,” and it’s not just a headset; there’s also a box that helps the PlayStation 4 process video. These prices will come down over time, but it’s hard to say how long that might take.

High-end headsets feature more complex and interactive experiences

Hidden costs High End

Most people have a desktop or laptop computer. But the only ones likely to own VR-ready PCs (sorry, no Macs for now) are film or video editors, big-budget video game fans, and other people who routinely need lots of processing power. To be clear, computers that don’t meet the Rift and Vive’s recommended specs might still be able to run some VR games and videos, which will vary in complexity and size. But to get a guaranteed good experience, expect to spend around $1,000 if you’re buying a new desktop — maybe a little less if you buy a combined headset and PC bundle. With PlayStation VR, though, the calculation is a lot simpler: all you need is a PlayStation 4 console.

Space needs High End

One of the big features you’re getting with high-end headsets is the ability to move or even walk through space. The standard way to do this — used by Oculus and Sony — is to put LEDs or some other set of markers on the headset, then track them with an external camera. This kind of positional tracking is very effective, but how far you can move in it depends on how much space the camera can capture. PlayStation VR mostly lets you lean, crouch, and shift around. The Rift can let you move a few feet in any direction, though we’ve only seen this done with multiple tracking cameras.

Unlike these, HTC’s Vive uses a laser tracking system that lets you walk around a 15 x 15-foot room. It’s by far the most freedom you’ll get from any headset, especially with a “chaperone” system that turns on a camera to show you when you’re getting close to an edge. But that also means you’ll need to install a high-powered computer next to a totally clear patch of floor. The Vive can work in smaller spaces as well, so it’s fine to buy if your house or apartment is a little more cramped. But it makes less sense to get the most expensive headset on the market if you’re not taking advantage of its biggest perk.

Controllers High End

Tethered headsets tend to be more focused on video games than the rest of the pool, and both the Oculus Rift and PlayStation VR make frequent use of gamepads. The Oculus Rift will ship with an Xbox One controller, which will be the primary method of using the system at launch. PSVR uses PlayStation 4 controllers for several experiences. But the thing that really sets these high-end headsets apart is their motion controllers, which let you do everything from play realistic virtual ping-pong to paint in three dimensions.

Sony already had its Move motion-tracking wands, and the PlayStation 4 gamepad has a light strip that tracking cameras can pick up as well. The Rift and Vive use their own specially designed controllers, and which one you prefer largely comes down to feel, since they have similar capabilities. But there are a couple of logistical concerns: the Rift’s controllers won’t come out until months after the headset is released, and the Vive only uses HTC and Valve’s motion wands — no traditional gamepads included.

All three headsets let you move around in physical space

Availability High End

April is going to be a huge month for high-end headsets. The Oculus Rift ships at the end of March, and the HTC Vive ships shortly thereafter, marking the first two high-end headset launches. Many people, though, might be getting their orders closer to this summer. The Oculus Rift is heavily backordered, with a current shipping date of July for new buyers — though buying a PC bundle might get you one sooner. Vive preorders have just opened, and we’re not sure how much inventory HTC is working with. The Rift (and probably Vive) will appear in stores, but don’t count on seeing large quantities.

If you’re looking at PlayStation VR, the timeline gets a bit longer. We’ve recently heard that Sony will ship it this fall, and it’s possible we’ll hear an exact date at this year’s Game Developers Conference, where the company has released VR news in the past. Sony introduced around 17 launch games last year, although developers have generally been more secretive about their plans than they have with the Rift or Vive. And while there are free games bundled with the headsets — Rift orders will come with platformer Lucky’s Tale for everyone and EVE: Valkyrie for preorders, and Vive preorder customers get Tilt Brush, Fantastic Contraption, and Job Simulator — everyone has also been pretty coy about how much you’ll pay to buy a game.

Unless you’re determined to be a super-early adopter, waiting a few months may well be the best option. Oculus and Valve have both lined up several dozen titles for the Rift and Vive, but the full catalog will take some months to come out, and it will take time to squash the inevitable bugs that come with new releases. For the Oculus Rift particularly, many of its best experiences — like sculpting tool Medium — won’t work until the Touch motion controllers ship later this year. And if you wait, the hardware needed to run these high-end headsets will only get cheaper.

Samsung Gear VR with joystick (SM-R324)

• Description
• Reviews

Samsung Gear VR with SM-R324 joystick is a great choice for those who want to experience high-quality virtual reality for little money. The helmet is completely self-contained and requires only the appropriate Samsung smartphone to operate. Convenient controls, excellent headset ergonomics, a sea of ​​various games and applications, and other advantages make Samsung Gear VR an attractive option for both home and commercial use. With its help, you can organize a virtual reality cinema or even a VR club.

Advantages of Samsung Gear VR with joystick (SM-R324):

• Great design. Made from matte black plastic, the Gear VR headset looks very stylish and the has all the necessary buttons on its body, including volume rocker, back and home buttons.
• Lightweight and comfortable. Gear VR glasses are so comfortable that immersed in virtual reality, you just forget about them. They weigh only 345 g.
• Without wires. Points are completely autonomous, which allows to forget about binding to a PC and annoying wires.
• Adjustable straps. The device is attached to the head with Velcro straps. Change their size and adjust for each specific user – a matter of 5 seconds.
• Soft grip. Prevents light from entering the goggles to enhance the immersive effect. It can be easily removed and washed if it gets dirty.
• Ergonomic joystick. The included gamepad fits perfectly in the hand and can be used to control most VR games and applications.
• “Tons” of content. You won’t get bored with Gear VR: ‘s library of 800+ games and apps will provide entertainment for every taste.
• Galaxy series support. Glasses are compatible with most smartphones in the line including Galaxy S9, S9+, Note8, S8, S8+, A8, A8+, S7, S7 edge, Note5, S6 edge+, S6, S6 edge.
• Focus adjustment. Gear VR implements the focal length adjustment using a dedicated zoom wheel.
• VR with prescription glasses. Headset has enough space to be used with eyeglasses. Nothing will stop you from enjoying virtual reality.
• Secure fastening. The smartphone is firmly attached to the headset with two clips. You don’t have to worry about it falling out.
• Touch panel. Glasses has a built-in touch panel, which can be used to control games and applications if, for example, your joystick runs out of power.
• 3D sound. Enjoy high-quality sound, which will further immerse you in unknown virtual worlds.

Includes:

• Samsung Gear VR Headset.
• Attachment straps.
• Gamepad with two AA batteries.
• Micro USB and USB Type-C adapters.
• Documentation and warranty card.

Specifications

Warranty

Warranty – 12 months. 14 days

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Feedback from business buyers of virtual reality glasses and attractions

Review by Ilya:
“Good afternoon! I purchased 4 sets of Oculus, for a company in Kazakhstan. Thanks for the fast shipping, everything came to Almaty very quickly)
True, there were troubles with the installation of games, but they explained everything how and what) According to the documents, everything is OK, if something is missing or needs to be changed, they do not a month, but within 30 minutes) This is a really big +!
Thank you again!!!”

Roman Chirkin
Sarov (Nizhny Novgorod Region)

good afternoon. For your needs, I am sending a photo of the attraction from Sarov, write a review yourself – everything suits me.”

90 009 Konstantin’s review:
“The order was received yesterday, exactly on the day birth. Everything is at the highest level, the kit is complete, new + I really liked the responsiveness of Alexei. You can have no doubts about the evenness of this topic and the seller.”

Alexey Trofimets
Krasnoyarsk
https://vk.com/melomanich

Alexey’s review:
“When ordering, you can pay the entire amount at once, who still doubts the main amount, you can pay upon receipt of the parcel. An official purchase and sale is made with the seals and signature of the seller, you only need data to receive the parcel: the address and city code and passport data for registration of the sale. The parcel came to me very quickly, in just 4 days Tambov-Krasnoyarsk. I am very pleased with everything: honestly, promptly, provides assistance in case of problems.”

You can read other reviews and leave your own in the reviews section in our VKontakte group.

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Article: SM-R325NZVAXAR

Categories: VR glasses and kits, Samsung

Based on 3 reviews

4.7 rating

KP top 10 rating

Mobile VR apps and games have exploded in the App Store and Google Play. Now, to work with them, the user can use standalone VR headsets – and this is just a cheap headset and a smartphone in your pocket.

We’ve rounded up the best VR goggles for smartphones.

Top 10 Smartphone VR Glasses

Check out Komsomolskaya Pravda’s Top 10 Smartphone VR Glasses that remain market leaders in 2023. The list includes both new models and proven devices.

Samsung Gear VR (SM-R325)

Samsung Gear VR (SM-R325). Photo: Samsung

The most technologically advanced model, but only for Samsung.

The Samsung Gear VR has always been a respectable smartphone VR headset, but now that it has a motion controller, it’s taken things to the next level.

In addition to a new controller, the updated Gear VR is lighter and more comfortable than before, and features a USB-C connector that connects directly to a Samsung Galaxy phone. Compatible phones include the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Plus, and the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9 Plus.

Google Daydream View 2017

Google Daydream View 2017. Photo: Google

Quality at an affordable price.

If the user has an Android phone (not necessarily a Galaxy) and wants to get into VR without spending a fortune setting up a headset and PC, then Google Daydream View (2017) is a viable option.

This is an easy-to-use headset that can be used by almost everyone. It only requires an app to be installed on your phone, and the VR world can be easily navigated back and forth with the included controller.

This is one of the best VR headsets on the market right now and an easy way for Android phone owners to access VR. And that really might be all there is to know.

Xiaomi Mi VR Play

Xiaomi Mi VR Play. Photo: Xiaomi

Nothing extra, just very cheap.

The release of Xiaomi Mi VR Play glasses proved that VR headsets can cost less than $15 and even be useful for users. The model is compatible with all iPhone and Android devices that have a screen size of 4.7 to 5.7 inches. It has anti-reflective lenses and a metal button on the top of the body for interacting with a smartphone, which is fixed with a zipper, rather than Velcro, like, for example, Google Cardboard.

Pleased with the manufacturer and the original colors – from classic black to leopard and denim colors.

VRBox VR 2.0

VRBox VR 2.0. Photo: VRBox

Very budget and reliable option.

The best of the two above, but at the lowest price on the market. High degree of compatibility with most smartphones on iOS and Android. The viewing angles of the device are 95-100 degrees, which is quite a lot for such a price segment. The lenses are aspherical, they can be adjusted in width, as well as adjust the sharpness to the eyes of any user.

And the highlight – the kit also comes with a joystick that controls the functions of the glasses without physical contact with them.

HOMIDO Grab

HOMIDO Grab. Photo: HOMIDO

Bright on the outside, technological on the inside.

The French headset Homido GRAB is attractive not only for its relatively low price, but also for its features. The device is compatible with any Android or iOS smartphones. It comes in six vibrant colors and works well with thousands of apps. A three-dimensional video picture with viewing angles of 100 degrees, of course, makes it possible to feel like a part of what is happening on the screen.

It is also important to note that the device has been evaluated and certified by Google.

HIPER VRS

HIPER VRS. Photo: HIPER

For those who want to get to know VR.

Basic and probably the cheapest model on the market. HIPER VRS is designed for those who want to get closer to the world of virtual reality. The device has a plastic case that provides secure mounting of the smartphone. It has built-in acrylic optical lenses with a diameter of 33.5 mm. The model is compatible with any smartphones with screen sizes from 4.7 to 6 inches, and battery life is limited only by battery capacity.

Xiaomi Mi VR 2

Xiaomi Mi VR 2. Photo: Xiaomi

The second generation is lighter, but more expensive.

Model Xiaomi Mi VR Play 2, unlike its predecessor, received only a neater appearance without adding new features. Among them: an updated design with smooth lines, reduced weight by more than 100 grams, as well as additional ventilation holes in the case for better cooling of the smartphone.

But the price can be called the main drawback of the device – in comparison with the first generation, it has increased several times.

Homido VR V2

Homido VR V2. Photo: Homido

Not a bad option for iOS lovers.

If a user wants to experience virtual reality on an Apple smartphone but doesn’t like budget options like Google Cardboard, Homido VR V2 is a great choice. Its bezel is big enough to fit an iPhone X, and it comes with a 100-degree field of view, focus adjustment, and a comfortable face pad. It also comes with its own app filled with VR content and is compatible with Android devices.

Zeiss VR ONE Plus

Zeiss VR ONE Plus. Photo: Zeiss

For those who love high-quality optics.

By the name of the manufacturer, you can understand that the device is equipped with really high-quality optics. It supports smartphones with a display diagonal of 4.7 to 6 inches. In addition to the main functionality, the device can be used as augmented reality glasses. For convenient operation, a separate joystick is required, which is not included in the kit. Viewing angles of the model are confident 100 degrees.

Google Cardboard V 2.0

Google Cardboard V 2.0. Photo: Google

Google Cardboard is literally a virtual headset made of cardboard. It uses two lenses placed in front of the user’s eyes, which, in combination with certain applications, allow him to perceive what the phone displays in an immersive and three-dimensional environment. The device comes with built-in NFC, which allows you to activate the VR app almost instantly as soon as the phone is placed in the headset.

Most importantly, any phone can be used with Google Cardboard as long as it fits physically and runs Android 4.1, iOS 8.0 or later.

What to look for when choosing virtual reality glasses for smartphones

Device screen size

When buying a gadget, the user needs to remember that standard VR glasses can work with smartphones of different sizes and operating systems. But for full immersion, the phone must have a 4.5-5.5-inch screen in order to be properly placed in the glasses. Resolution is also important – Full HD (1920×1080) or QHD (2560×1440), as well as the image change speed (2-5 ms).

Weight

The principle is simple – the lighter the weight of the VR helmet, the more convenient it will be to use. And too heavy a design will put pressure on the bridge of the nose, leave marks on the face and generally cause discomfort to the user. The weight of the phone used is also important – experts consider smartphones that weigh no more than 200 grams to be optimal.

Viewing angle

Viewing angle is perhaps the key indicator of the device, which will determine how complete the picture will be seen by the user. Therefore, it is obvious that the wider the angle, the more comfortable and pleasant it is to be in the virtual world. Today, most virtual reality glasses are produced with a viewing angle of 75 to 110 degrees.

Helmet construction

There are several important details that the user needs to know before buying a helmet. For example, attention should be paid to the interpupillary distance in various devices. It is important to choose the best option – this will allow you to use glasses in accordance with the anatomical data of the user. Please note that in some models this parameter can be adjusted to the owner.

The presence of interchangeable lenses and a soft base in the kit with a helmet will also become a purchase criterion. In the future, this will save the user from additional investments in the device. You also need to check the mount that holds the smartphone during the game, and the ability to adjust the straps that attach the glasses to the head.

Smartphone hardware

Most modern smartphones sync easily with VR glasses, but be sure to pay attention to the minimum specifications anyway. Typically, this is support for the Android operating system version 4.

The Best Designer Apple Watch Bands in 2023

Alyssa Powell/Insider

2023-04-26T20:53:07Z

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If the finer things in life tend to strike your fancy, the idea of adorning the best Apple Watch with a designer band is probably par for the course. Ever since the first Apple Hermès Collection back in 2015, the union between high-tech and high fashion has only gotten stronger. 

But Hermès isn’t the only brand making stylish designer Apple Watch straps. Brands like Coach, Michael Kors, and Tory Burch also offer their take on wearable luxury.

Below are 16 of the best designer Apple Watch bands currently available for the Apple Watch SE or Apple Watch Series 8. It’s recommended you always cross-reference the size of the watch band you’re purchasing to the compatible band size of your Apple Watch. Some products may even only list the size (i.e. 40mm or 41mm), so it’s smart to double-check. 

For more picks — designer or not —  check out our guide to the best Apple Watch bands.

When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more.

Best designer Apple Watch bands

• Packaged as a gift set, you get not one, but two chic watch straps that don the Tory Burch logo in embossed leather or woven jacquard.

• Detroit’s Shinola is no stranger to the watch game, and its Stainless Steel Bracelet features a classic band style that’s durably built and striking.

• Apple’s partnership with the French fashion house has a wealth of options, like this premium Swift leather band that comes in 10 different colors.

• Channeling the Italian brand’s vibrant color palette, this strap is part colorful fabric, part leather that strikes a playful designer look.

• This Kate Spade strap features a leather braided design that gives the Apple Watch an effortlessly chic style.

• This strap is embossed with the Coach’s iconic logo and is made of comfortable and stylish black silicone rubber, proving that even rubber can be luxury.

• For something luxe and sparkly, this strap sports a pavé-accented two-tone design of silver and rose gold.

• This Lagos band features a gorgeous combo of ceramic and stainless steel link that will turn your Apple Watch into a fine piece of jewelry.

• Michele’s Stainless Bracelet Band has a silver, stainless steel finish that gives it a stunning look. Pair with a silver Apple Watch case for added style.

• Goldenerre makes stylish accessories expressly for the Apple Watch. With a gold finish, the Herringbone band is one of our favorites.

• Made from leather with stainless steel links that wrap twice around the wrist, this Hermès strap is a subtle statement piece for any occasion.

• Coach’s Signature Silicone Strap is a rugged designer option that’s still quite stylish. It’s thick and chunky, with a studded design for luxe attitude.

• The Terrazza is made of Italian full-grain leather that’s comfortable and snazzy. It’s available in a number of colorways, so you can fully customize your style.

• This stainless steel band features a stylish rose gold finish and an easy-to-use push-button closure. A single

• Nomad’s Titanium Band is highly durable yet still light, weighing in at just 2. 4 ounces. And the look of the shiny titanium links is incredibly clean.

• Made of beautiful top-grain leather, this band from Apple is elegant and stylish. Its buckle closure system gives it a particularly clean look.

FAQs

What designer Apple Watch band is best? 

This depends on what kind of designer Apple Watch band you’re looking for and, ultimately, where you want to wear it. Designer bands come in varieties such as stainless steel, leather, and even silicone, and many feature things like gold finishes, diamond or crystal inlays, or a unique pattern. 

Is it better to buy a designer Apple Watch band from a brand affiliated with Apple?  

Although Apple has a partnership with the designer brand, Hermes, and offers its bands via the Apple website, they’re not actually any better than those from Coach, Kate Spade, or Missoni. The Hermès straps may come in an Apple-branded package but won’t be any more or less durable or functional.

Are designer Apple Watch bands meant to be worn every day?  

That’s entirely up to you. One of the Apple Watch’s best features is the ability to easily swap out bands, so you could reasonably have a variety of bands with different use cases (i.e. sport bands for working out, leather or metal for the office, and a designer band for a night out). 

If you do decide to wear a designer band every day, do know that it’s likely to encounter a bit of everyday wear and tear like scratches or nicks. 

Rick Stella

Fitness Tech Editor, Insider Reviews

Rick Stella is the fitness tech editor for the Insider Reviews team. He reviews and reports on all forms of wearables like activity trackers and smartwatches, as well as a variety of other fitness-related wearables. Rick has over eight years of experience covering the verticals of health & fitness, outdoors, and consumer technology.
When he’s not putting digital pen to digital paper, Rick enjoys seeing live music, playing soccer, catching up on Netflix shows, and riding his bike. An Oregonian for much of his life, Rick now resides in Brooklyn. 
He can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @RickStella.
Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here.
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Apple Watch Bands | iWatch Bands

While there are original Apple Watch bands you can choose from, there are limited colors and styles you can go for. StrapsCo showcases various designs: stainless steel bands for the professionals, leather Apple Watch bands for daily errands, sports bands for active people, and various printed and colored silicone bands for those with a quirky sense of fashion. 

We provide and continue to update a wide variety of watch bands for these series:

• Apple Watch
• Apple Watch Series 1
• Apple Watch Series 2
• Apple Watch Series 3
• Apple Watch Series 4
• Apple Watch Series 5
• Apple Watch Series 6
• Apple Watch Series 7
• Apple Watch Series 8

Whatever your lifestyle, your Apple Watch will stay on with its sturdy band design. Here at StrapsCo, we take our watch bands seriously, and offer only the best designs for people who take pride in their fashion sense.

With our wide array of sturdy Apple Watch bands, which are both easy to install and remove, it’s a great way to change your look without breaking the bank. The band for the Apple Watch is one of many new and convenient ways to explore new prints and express your personality, even when wearing formal attire.

How Can You Change the Strap for the Apple Watch?

The Apple Watch was designed to be more flexible and stylish for Apple users. The Apple Watch strap can easily be removed and replaced with a new design. With whatever watch band material you choose, whether it’s leather or stainless steel, it can be popped right off without any tools. 

Here is a step by step process for how to remove and replace your Apple Watch bands:

• To avoid scratching the surface of your Apple Watch, place it face down on a clean and soft fabric. 
• Check for the release button on the bottom and top of the watch body. 
• Hold it down and gently slide the watch band across. The Apple Watch band should slide easily.
• In case it won’t budge, don’t force it. Ensure that the button is held down until the watch band can be removed smoothly.

Which Apple Watch Bands Are the Best?

While there are always new bands with unique designs available, one of the most popular Apple watch band sets is made of leather. Leather is a versatile watch band that can be worn with formal wear and in casual situations, which is why it’s a classic favorite for working professionals.

However, there is a new contender against leather, and it’s the nylon Apple Watch band set. It’s versatile like leather and usually comes in vibrant colors to match your outfits. The classic stainless steel Apple Watch band set has made a comeback as well, as it adds a bit of flair to any outfit. In the end, it all depends on your style and taste.

Where to Buy Apple Watch Bands

You can buy a wide selection of Apple Watch band sets online, like StrapsCo, or in Apple stores.