By Gadjo C Sevilla
In 2017, smartwatches are trying to cram fitness tracking capabilities with smart features like notifications, apps, payments, and ecosystem plays. They offer a substantial step up from fitness trackers which have minimal functionality outside of tracking activity, heart rate and sleep. Smartwatches are looking to be more independent of smartphones.
By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla
Apple has succeeded in making the Apple Watch a notable category. But like the iPod before it, this can only grow if Apple makes it cross platform (i.e. available to Android or even Windows 10 users). New adoption is the only way to really grow a niche product like this, and bringing Apple Pay or other features to a wider audience may help Apple Watch become the profitable new category Apple expects it to be.
By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla
Is there still space for Android Wear 2.0 devices in a world divided between Apple Watch and Fitbit trackers? Google seems to think so and is putting health tracking, mobile payments, Google Assistant and messaging at the forefront of its new OS and devices.
By Ted Kritsonis
The Microsoft Band 2 is neither a full-on smartwatch, nor a dedicated fitness band, but rather something in the middle seeking to stand out from a crowded pack. Having learned from prior mistakes with the first Band, this model was meant to be a refined iteration that improved in both design and functionality. How well it stacks up depends on what you prioritize most in a wearable tracker.
By Ted Kritsonis
It’s not a smartwatch, but rather a fitness watch? Such a term hasn’t really existed in the crammed wearable category, but Fitbit is staking its claim to it with the Blaze, a fitness tracker that not only resembles a smartwatch, but also sort of acts like one, too.
By Ted Kritsonis
There is increasingly less and less that is secretive about Apple launch events. Virtually everything rumoured to be announced yesterday came to pass, revealing that the company is trying to shore up its credentials in mid-range smartphones, while pushing the iPad inextricably into “Pro” territory.
By Ted Kritsonis
Looking for, or intrigued at the notion of buying a smartwatch, either as a gift or for yourself? The category is still a mixed bag, but compared to last year, the added polish has made them noticeably better than the initial batch that came to market. We lined up some of the best available to you now.
By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla
Consumers now have a range of smartwatches to choose from in the market. I’ve owned, tried and tested the Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy Gear, Pebble Time and Moto 360 to determine what it is they offer.