Samsung's Galaxy Fit3 brings almost-dead smart band series back to life

Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Fit3 [SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS]

Samsung Electronics' once almost-discontinued Galaxy Fit band series has returned to much popularity in Korea, with the Galaxy Fit3 selling out only hours after its launch on April 3.

The fitness band's initial stocks for all three colors — gray, silver and pink gold — were snapped up in less than five hours, according to industry sources.

Supplies were restocked on April 8, but also ran out within an hour, according to Samsung's retail website.

The Galaxy Fit3 is an updated version of the Fit2, released four years ago. The earlier smart band wasn't received well by the public, leading to rumors that the wearable device would be discontinued.

The new version, however, is selling like hotcakes not only in Korea but also globally.

In the Philippines, where the Galaxy Fit3 received an early launch in February, the gray version has sold out, according to Samsung's retail site.

The smart band gained popularity due to its affordable price and slick design.

The Fit3 is priced at 89,000 won in Korea, more than half the price of a Galaxy Watch, which retails at over 200,000 won. The band's display size is 45 percent larger than the previous version and is able to track around 100 types of exercises.

Positive market responses to the smart band have raised expectations for Samsung's Galaxy Ring, slated for launch later in year.

The ring, which was teased at the Galaxy Unpacked event in January and shown off at MWC 2024, is considered the latest piece in Samsung's health care device lineup. It is expected to launch at the summer Unpacked event, where Samsung will debut its new foldable smartphone products.

BY JIN EUN-SOO [jin.eunsoo@joongang.co.kr]