Samsung's new Gear Fit smart watch certainly looks great, one of the first wearable devices that really evokes a "the future is now" response.
Sure, Google Glass is pretty high-tech and reminiscent of many futuristic sci-fi devices, but people are still critical of its appearance (though they're working with fashion designers now), and not everybody would want to wear it in public. The Gear Fit, on the other hand, is slim, sleek and well designed.
The main problem brought up by those who used the smart watch (and among people discussing it online) was that the screen was oriented horizontally, making it awkward to look at when it's on your wrist. You could still see the screen and get your information (or twist your arm or head to make it point at you), but it was a bit counter-intuitive and not ideal to have to display face away from your face.
Samsung have responded to the criticism by enabling vertical orientation, something those interested in the Gear Fit will be delighted to hear. This should make it much easier to check the display, especially when the wearer wants to do so quickly, like when working out or running.
Since the Gear Fit (as the name implies) is focused on fitness compatibility and active use, it makes sense that there's an option to streamline that experience. I'm not sure which feedback Samsung was going by that made it decide to enact this change (perhaps surveys or focus groups, perhaps just general internet grumblings), but it's nice that they responded before the device is even launched.
The Verge compliments the change, but points out that there may be trouble fitting longer Latin language text pieces on the slim vertical display (Samsung can't seem to win), since the example photo is from the South Korean website and product version.
Either way it's an optional setting, not one that's forced on you, and the increased ease of use probably outweighs any smaller issues it may cause. The Gear Fit launches April 11 for $199, alongside the Galaxy S5.
