Samsung SmartTag 3 Drops Built-In Loop for Keychains
New leaks suggest Samsung is removing the integrated mounting loop from its next tracker, a design shift that prioritizes a smaller form factor over immediate convenience.
Samsung is reportedly redesigning its Galaxy SmartTag 3 to eliminate the built-in mounting loop found in previous generations. According to information shared by 9to5Google, the new device will rely entirely on external accessories for attachment. This change aligns Samsung with competitors like Apple and Motorola, but it removes a feature that many users previously relied on for quick setup.
The shift comes as the company prepares to launch the next iteration of its tracking device. While the internal hardware remains robust, the physical interface is undergoing a significant simplification. Users will no longer be able to clip the tag directly to a keychain or bag loop without purchasing or attaching a separate adapter.
Design shift removes integrated mounting
Previous versions of the Galaxy SmartTag featured a loop built directly into the plastic casing. This allowed users to slide the tag onto a keyring immediately after unboxing. The new squircle-shaped design lacks this feature, requiring a dedicated add-on for any physical attachment. While this results in a slightly smaller overall footprint, it introduces an extra step in the setup process that was previously unnecessary.
This approach mirrors the strategy of Apple’s AirTag and Motorola’s Moto Tag. Both of these devices require users to use a separate loop or case to attach the tracker to their belongings. By following this model, Samsung is standardizing its hardware around a minimalist form factor, trading immediate usability for a sleeker aesthetic.
Hardware specs and battery endurance
Internally, the SmartTag 3 retains the core technologies that define modern tracking devices. It will support Ultra-Wideband (UWB) for precise directional finding, as well as Bluetooth for general connectivity. The device is also rated IP67, meaning it can withstand immersion in water up to one meter deep for thirty minutes.
Battery life remains a strong point for the device, with reports indicating an endurance of approximately 500 days on a single charge. However, the tracker will likely remain exclusive to Samsung’s own network. This means it may not integrate fully with Google’s Find Hub ecosystem, limiting its utility for users who rely on cross-brand tracking solutions.
Pricing and market availability
The single-unit price is expected to remain stable at $29.99 in the US and €39.99 in Europe. However, the cost of the four-pack bundle is set to increase slightly, moving to $139.99 from the previous €129.99 price point. A specific release date has not been announced, but the device is expected to appear alongside other upcoming Samsung announcements.
