Samsung (NASDAQOTH: SSNLF) launched its Google (GOOG 0.23%)(GOOGL 0.30%) Android-based Galaxy Gear smartwatch late last year, but it looks like the South Korean conglomerate has had a change of heart. The company has issued a software update that changes the device's underlying operating system to its own open-source platform Tizen. That means that Samsung's current smartwatch lineup is devoid of Android.
Google made an official push into smartwatches with the recent announcement of Android Wear. Yet, OEM reception has been mixed at best. Samsung still intends to release an Android Wear smartwatch later this year, even as it would prefer to see Tizen succeed as a platform. Samsung is likely hedging its bets by pursuing both operating systems, especially as it can't afford to transition away from Android at the moment. Its business is simply far too reliant on Google's platform.
In this segment of Tech Teardown, Erin Kennedy discusses Samsung's Tizen with Evan Niu, CFA, our tech and telecom bureau chief.
