During the IFA tech conference in early Sept, processor maker Qualcomm announced the Toq smartwatch.
The Snapdragon processor maker has now said the Toq will be made available from December 2 with a $350 price tag.
The android smartphone-compatible Toq features Qualcomm's Mirasol display technology, meaning an always-on experience with multiple days of battery life and visibility in bright sunlight. Integrated into the device is WiPower LE technology enabling a drop-and-go charging experience with no wires, while also supporting Bluetooth audio.
Toq's Mirasol 1.55 inch display is based on microelectromechanical systems (or MEMS) to deliver its low-powered Interferometric Modulation effect. MEMES are the structure of the pixel while the thin-filmed optics are what help manipulate the light into an image. Total pixel resolution of the device is 288 x 192 and it features a 200MHz chip.
"Like a traditional watch, Toq displays information at a glance with no on/off switch," said Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Qualcomm, Dr. Paul E. Jacobs. "And paired with a smartphone to receive notifications and content, it allows the watch to seamlessly merge our physical and digital lives. Leveraging theses and other industry-leading technologies, we and our partners will enable new product opportunities and consumer experiences."
The water-proof Toq allows users to accept/reject calls, view text messages and meeting alerts and selectively receive notifications among others. Shipping with several apps pre-installed like AccuWeather and E*Trade, Qualcomm said it would continue to add functionality to the Toq through future software updates.
Though the phone requires a smartphone device using Android 4.0.3., 4.3. Jelly Bean is preferred.
Only a limited number of Toq smartwatches will be sold by Qualcomm. More will possibly be made if it sells through its first run.
The smartwatch market has been a tough sell. Samsung's Galaxy Gear, making its debut in September, only sold 50,000 units and was at the receiving end of harsh critics. Criticism included the device's limited functionality, poor battery life, $300 price tag and connectivity limited to the Korean electronics giant's current run of Galaxy phones.
