In these days before the IFA consumer electronics convention in Berlin, tech companies will be unveiling all sorts of new gadgets and phones. Smartwatches are set to make a big appearance at the convention as the next big thing in the gadget market, and ASUS is joining the party with its new ZenWatch.
The ZenWatch is ASUS's introduction into Google's Android Wear ecosystem alongside the wearable operating system's launch devices like the LG G Watch and the Samsung Gear Live. As such, the ZenWatch can pair with any smartphone running Android 4.3 or higher and features the same kind of fitness functionality that made the wearable market blow up in the first place.
Beyond the ZenWatch's innards, though, ASUS also emphasized the watch's design, which features a curved, "2.5D" display that more naturally fits the contours of a wrist. The soft leather strap and quick-release clasp also draw from elements of traditional watch design.
"Our design philosophy is Start with People," ASUS Design Center Vice President Mitch Yang said in a release. "We want to deliver a seamless digital experience for everyone to enjoy. With our ZenWatch, you will always be connected to everything that matters in your life."
The watch contains a specialized wearable version of ASUS's ZenUI user interface, making the device even more compatible with existing ASUS products. Though the ZenWatch can pair with any Android phone, connecting the watch to an ASUS smartphone gives the wearer added functionality with ZenUI apps like What's Next and Do It Later.
