Today at its Mobile Asia Expo in Shanghai, China, Sony announced its new water-resistant SmartWatch 2, with NFC capabilities, as the next-gen device in its SmarWatch line. The SmartWatch 2 is made to be compatible with Android devices to bolster smartphone functions while carrying a number of intriguing new apps. Sony noted the SmartWatch 2 will be made available worldwide in September, though has yet to set a price tag.
The new Sony gadget looks to be the perfect complement for tech junkies as it’s compatible with Android-run smartphones and tablets, with the notable exception being the Samsung Galaxy S4.
As far as the SmartWatch 2 is concerned, app expandability is crucial. With the new device users can handle calls by simple touching their wrists, can take photos remotely, can control presentations remotely using Presentation Pal, can track workout routes and routines through Runtastic and Mapping, and connect to their respective devices. Having NFC certainly adds to the SmartWatch 2’s allure, as even Apple’s iPhone 5 is without that popular function.
Just as importantly, though, users can access messages, emails, notifications, and social media networks while reading previously received notifications when not connected to a handset or internet. It also moonlights as a typical digital watch.
Though this is Sony’s third-generation SmartWatch, the “smartwatch” market has yet to really explode. Apple has long been rumored to be developing a similar iWatch, having supposedly tested specific screen sizes and being awarded a patent for a curved battery expected to be for the iWatch, though the Cupertino electronics giant has yet to confirm any speculations.
Sony has a chance to set the nice market, especially now that the SmartWatch 2 integrates rather seamlessly with Android devices. The Google-owned Android mobile operating system has taken off to surpass Apple’s iOS as the most popular and widely used mobile platform so it only makes sense that Sony would try to drive other markets.
Stay tuned to BostInno for the latest developments about the SmartWatch but in the meantime, let’s hear some opinions. What do you think about the idea of a “smart watch” and do you think Sony can be successful with it? Would you prefer an iOS-based iWatch from Apple?
