14 DAY TRIAL // Remember that when @evleaks was still around, we got served an image detailing HTC’s upcoming smartwatch? The company appeared on Google’s official partner list for Android Wear, so we were kind of expecting to see the device arrive at IFA 2014.
Well, as you may know by now, this was not the case and judging by the latest information, it may never be the case. A new report coming from Pocket-Lint says HTC has apparently abandoned its smartwatch plans altogether.
HTC smartwatch – to be or not to be
The source familiar with the matter that talked to the publication doesn't have an official reason for why this is the case, but the theory goes like this: HTC couldn't come up with a wow factor needed to propel this device into absolute glory.
That and the fact that costs for smartwatch-making are increasingly on the rise. So, HTC came to the honest conclusion that it is better to offer squat instead of pushing out a boring copycat, like our friend Sony did with the latest SmartWatch 3 (see, even the name is boring).
HTC might be right here. Just take a look at IFA 2014 and you’ll see its grounds were riddled with the many spawns coming from this category, be it the LG G Watch R, Samsung Gear S, Sony SmartWatch 3 or the brand new ASUS ZenWatch.
Also, let’s not forget the imminent arrival of Apple’s iWatch, which is expected to burn a big hole into the competition. So maybe, HTC made the right decision here. The company will get to save costs and focus on what it does better, namely smartphones.
HTC will continue to focus on its mobile division
The device-maker is also working hand in hand with Google to bring to the market the new Nexus 9 tablet, which is expected to be one of the first to take advantage of Android L.
So the company has what to focus on, but it’s still a shame to think that concepts like the HTC Omni Luxury smartwatch will never become reality. Take a look at it, to behold what will never come.
We guess this information obliterates an earlier leak which suggested HTC would bring out a 1.8-inch smartwatch with IP57 certification meant to come in September.
Maybe, at some point HTC will find the necessary resources to build a smartwatch like we have never seen before. But for the time being, you’ll have to settle for the company’s smartphones and hopefully for the new Nexus 9 tablet that will come soon.