Already a big player in the fashion industry, Michael Kors has announced his foray into wearable tech as well.
Set to debut this Fall, Kors' first smartwatch collection, Michael Kors Access, will feature Google's Android Wear smartwatch OS. The announcement was made at Baselworld in Switzerland.
Although not much has been revealed about the specs of the new line of smartwatches, the company has released some teaser videos showing two styles of wearables for men and women.
According to Michael Kors, the smartwatches will have watch faces exclusive to Michael Kors Access. One will be a traditional-looking chronograph, which can be changed with a swipe of a finger, and the other will be a more hip, glittering animated pavé for those who want to live up the night life.
"I'm in the business of making people’s lives easier through fashion. I thought, ‘Why can’t tech accessories be chic and glamorous?’ You wear them every day. After all, technology is impacting life more and more. It should reflect your personal taste as much as anything else, but it should also give you access to all the experiences that you want," the designer said about his new venture into wearable tech.
Both smartwatch versions for men and women will reportedly also have interchangeable silicone or leather bands and come in sporty or glamorous styles.
Just like all smartwatches which run on Android Wear, they will be compatible with both Android devices as well as Apple devices – however, those who pair their Android Wear smartwatches with the iPhone will find some limitations as the OS does not support many apps designed for the Apple Watch.
Michael Kors Access smartwatches will also have all the standard features available on all Android Wear including hands-free options and the following:
- Social media updates and text and email alerts
- App notifications
- Smart help from Google
- Built-in fitness tracking
- Voice-activated Google
Michael Kors Access smartwatches are set to retail at around $395 and will be available at all Michael Kors stores and select department stores.
