ASUS’ new wearable is a fitness-oriented gizmo

Apr 14, 2015 08:33 GMT  ·  By

ASUS unveiled its first smartwatch, called the ZenWatch, a while ago at IFA 2014, and this week, without as much as a warning, the Taiwanese company has pushed out another model.

It’s probably the Apple Watch frenzy that dictated this product’s announcement, which, interestingly enough, does not belong to the Zen family.

The new wearable is called the VivoWatch, which makes us think of the company’s popular VivoTab lineup of tablets. Maybe ASUS is hinting that you could pair the wearable with a tablet, not a smartphone like it’s customary.

ASUS was pretty mum about details concerning this new product, but it did mention that the device was meant to be a fitness-centric wearable capable of offering up to 10 days of battery life (as seen at HD Blog).

This is quite important given that the mighty Apple Watch can barely make it through a day of activity without requiring a charge.

The VivoWatch is focused on fitness

Other features include a stainless steel frame, heart rate monitor, and a suite of health-oriented apps. The display of the VivoWatch seems to be a black and white one, but colored LED notification lights are also available.

The ASUS VivoWatch has been IP67 certified, which means it is both dust and water-resistant. Interestingly, the intelligent wearable does not run Android Wear, but we’re not told what OS actually supports the smartwatch.

A few months ago, we heard that ASUS was working towards a non-Android Wear smartwatch and this is probably it.

So the question arises: Has ASUS taken up developing its own platform or did it partner up with Samsung to use their Tizen OS on the VivoWatch?

There’s still a bit of mystery related to the new product, but from what we can see, the VivoWatch is designed as a fitness-centric companion. ASUS has probably integrated a suite of software which will keep you up to date with your physical evolution.

The company didn’t mention the price tag for the VivoWatch, but we guess the company will market it for a bit less than the ZenWatch. Those interested can pick up the current product for $199 / €188 a pop, which is quite affordable, compared to similar products on the market.

ASUS VivoWatch (5 Images)

ASUS VivoWatch frontal view
ASUS VivoWatch is a fitness-centric wearableASUS VivoWatch will probably be quite affordable
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