Samsung is said to be developing a new smartwatch with a round face that hopes to challenge more attractive offerings from its rivals like the Moto 360 and the LG G Watch R. Codenamed Orbis, the device will reportedly be available with 3G connectivity with support for calling.

“First off, we can confirm that the Orbis will be launched as the Gear A, or at least that’s what the signs are pointing to at the moment,” reports the reliable SamMobile.

“The Gear A will come in two variants – a standard one with Bluetooth connectivity, and one with 3G and calling support (both variants should support Wi-Fi.)” These are expected to come with the SM-R720 and SM-R730 model numbers.

Samsung’s Gear S smartwatch also boasts 3G connectivity, but it does not have the ability to make calls independently of a phone. It’s also not available in a more affordable Wi-Fi only or Bluetooth only option.

The list of model numbers obtained by SamMobile suggests there will be carrier-specific options for AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon — plus a number of others for carriers in international markets.

There’s still no word on when the Orbis will be available yet, but if this is Samsung’s answer to the Apple Watch, you can expect it to come sometime this year.

• SourceSamMobile