As Google goes full blast with its Android Wear that brings its free operating system to wearables, the battle for the hottest upcoming smartwatches may have started.
Google has partnered with leading technology brands such as Motorola, LG, Samsung, HTC, and Asus to bring fashionable and high-tech devices to consumers. Likewise, it announced a collaboration with known fashion company Fossil Group to reach beyond the technology crowd.
LG has announced that its Android-powered G Watch will be rolled out as early as the second quarter of this year. The company disclosed that its engineers worked closely with Google to craft the best wearable technology device possible that will enhance the user experience.
"The opportunity to work with Google on LG G Watch was the perfect chance for LG to really pull out all stops in both design and engineering. With the LG G Watch, LG is continuing the milestones we've set in wearables following in the footsteps of the world's first 3G Touch Watch Phone in 2009 and the Prada Link in 2008. We're confident that a well-designed device has the potential to take the smart wearable market by storm," said LG president and chief executive Jong-seok Park.
The company has not disclosed details about the LG G Watch but we will update you as soon as we hear about its hardware specifications, features, and price.
The LG G Watch is expected to at least give its users relevant information coming from their Android smartphones and assist users utilizing its digital assistant.
"OK Google" will be the magic word when interacting with this line of Android smartwatches and users can play their favorite music from this smartphone or perhaps stream a movie from another compatible device. Just like what's on spotlight on smartphones today, the Android wearable technology will also help in tracking the user's health and fitness. The device can monitor an individual's real-time speed or distance covered when running or cycling.
The collaboration with LG and Google is nothing new as the two companies have produced the Google Play Edition G Pad 8.3, Nexus 5, and Nexus 4.
Motorola also did not waste time. After the announcement of the new line of wearables, it disclosed that its first Moto 360 smartwatch will be available in the global market starting Summer 2014. It will first be rolled out in the United States, spreading to other markets after its initial launch.
Everyone is still wondering what Samsung will offer as its latest iteration of its Galaxy Gear 2 runs on Tizen. The brand's move is seen by experts as a way to move away from Google's Android but with a very young "Tizen SDK for Wearables" it is highly unlikely that it will leave the umbrella of Samsung.
Of course, iFans might be wondering what Apple is doing and when that much awaited iWatch will debut. Until then, there is no war of smartwatches just yet. With Android taking the first move, everyone waits for any shock and awe strategy from the iPhone and iPad maker.
Below is Google' s preview of Android Wear.
