They are basic in function, just a simple firmware, all it does is send and receive data that is relevant via Bluetooth. Such as when a SMS is received, it sends a signal saying you have a new message or 2 new messages etc. It vibrates to let you know and shows an icon, you click it and it syncs the message again via Bluetooth, same for FB, Twitter and email updates. You can also say recieve a phone call in a meeting use a quick saved message saying "in meeting will call you back later". Rather than digging your phone out and ramaging for it to do the same thing. In essence its like a pager really, just receiving updates from your phone.
You can design apps to interpret its sensor, there's a fitness app already that utilizes it. It tracks GPS & heart rate, which is cool, especially when getting fitter in particular with aerobic exercises like cycling, plus works out average speed, carbs burnt etc... I think its quite cool, its a good way to track your progress
Torque app on android is brilliant, I now use my tablet as a OBD fault finder and clearer for a long time. The gauges are also useful to read boost if a MAP is present or use the MAF to predict it etc... But since phones are now replacing satnav devices, even tomtom have realised this in there sales! What you can do is use the mobile as your GPS system and the smart watch can be mounted and display a single gauge such as boost which I think is
as it doesn't need a strap on, it can be removed and have a different mount on.
The reason for poor battery life is the Bluetooth it consumes huge amount of energy, but Bluetooth 4.0 is now appearing that is a lot more efficient, which will be used on future devices.
Not sure on the headphone thing, maybe when cycling, phones in backpack and your streaming it to your watch whilst its transmitting your fitness data. Also read that some units use the headphone jack as a charger input.
All in all I have sold it to myself, they are building newer watches that will be small light android OS, and be able have a sim card. As opposed to being dependent on a separate android device like a tablet or phone. This I cannot see the point of, as the screens to small. ATM it cannot stream video either, but with a standalone OS it will be able too, again no point for this in my eyes as the screens too small.
Now back on topic, do I get one? And your views?
