Samsung's new SmartTag3 drops the keyring hole
Leaked images show the third-generation tracker arriving without an integrated attachment point, forcing users to buy extra accessories for basic use.
Samsung is preparing to release its third-generation Galaxy SmartTag, and leaked images have finally provided a clear look at the physical device. The tracker moves away from the simple square design of its predecessors, adopting a rounded square shape often described as a squircle. While the hardware looks sleek, the biggest change is functional rather than aesthetic, directly impacting how users will attach the device to their keys or bags.
The most significant trade-off revealed in the photos is the removal of the central hole that previously allowed for direct attachment to keyrings or lanyards. This means the SmartTag3 cannot be clipped directly onto items as standard. Instead, users will need to purchase a separate case or accessory with a built-in loop to attach the tracker to their belongings, adding an extra cost to the initial purchase.
New design features
According to GSMArena, the leaked visuals show the device in two different color options. The center of the tag features a button with Samsung branding, which appears to have a metallic finish that contrasts with the main body. This central button is likely the primary interface for locating the item or triggering alerts, maintaining a familiar interaction model from previous generations.
Attachment requirements change
The decision to remove the integrated hole represents a shift in convenience. For owners of the original SmartTag or SmartTag2, the new model requires an additional step to set up. You can no longer simply thread a keychain through the device. The need for a proprietary or third-party case with an attachment loop means that the out-of-the-box experience is less ready for immediate use compared to the older versions.
This change may appeal to those who prefer a cleaner, minimalist look without the visual clutter of a keyring hole, but it clearly adds friction for the majority of users who want to track keys or wallets. The trade-off is between a potentially more robust or seamless physical design and the loss of direct, zero-cost attachment capability.
Launch timing expectations
Samsung has not officially confirmed the release date for the Galaxy SmartTag3. However, industry expectations suggest the device could become official within the next one to two months. The availability of specific colors and the requirement for new attachment accessories suggest the company is finalizing its product lineup ahead of a broader launch event.
