Lumoid is a startup that offers options for renting popular wearable devices. These include Garmin, Jawbone and Fitbit. Now that the Apple Watch will soon reach stores, the company is adding it to its rental lineup to help users determine whether the product is a good fit and might eventually become a purchase.
Lumoid will be renting out the entry-level Apple Watch Sport at the price of $45, $25 of which could be used as part of the purchase price should the user decide to buy it. Likewise, the Steel version of the smartwatch will have a rental cost of $55, with $30 used as partial payment when the customer decides to purchase the device.
Apple's smartwatch collection has a price range of $349 on the low-end to $17,000 on the high-end. Pricing will depend on the metal from which the watch is made and the type of straps it has. In the lower-priced ranges, larger smartwatch models (1.7 in) will be $50 more expensive than their smaller counterparts (1.5 in).
Apple said that potential Apple Watch buyers will have the chance to try different models in the stores. The smartwatches are scheduled to go on sale on April 24. However, some users may find this insufficient in their decision whether to purchase the device. They want to know more about the overall experience and effect the device will have in their lives, how relevant it is and the whether it's worth spending hard-earned money on a device that has yet to make waves.
"It's easy to see how a phone or computer or tablet fits into your life, but a watch that reminds you to stand or helps you pay for your groceries can be a harder sell, especially when you only get to test it in the store," said a spokesperson for Lumoid.
Lumoid is engaged in the type of business that allows customers to choose as many as five devices they use at home. In this newly-launched business model, users are given a trial period of seven days, enough for them to decide which among the wearables best fits their interests and lifestyle.
Lumoid added that people find it interesting to be able to try out a wearable because it gives them a number of options and will ultimately help them choose which to buy.
