Samsung’s new Gear Fit smartband is off to a strong start, with initial sales prompting additional production to meet high demand.
According to Korean media, Samsung’s initial production batch of 200,000-250,000 Gear Fit units sold out globally in just 10 days. South Korea saw 25,000 sales alone.
With supplies drying up quicker than expected, Samsung has kicked off expanded manufacturing at Samsung Display and Samsung SDI facilities.
The Gear Fit launched earlier this month along with the Gear 2 and Gear 2 Neo smartwatches. Early sales indicate the fitness-focused Gear Fit resonated most with consumers.
The global wearables market was valued at around $330 million in 2013, so there is plenty of room for growth as Samsung carves out a share.
Supply chain sources say Samsung aims to ship over 10 million Tizen-powered wearables in 2014 on the back of strong Gear Fit demand.
Of course, sustaining that initial interest is key as new smartwatches from Google, Apple and others launch later this year.
But for now, the rapid Gear Fit sales highlight Samsung’s early mover advantage and opportunity in the nascent wearables space.
