LG Electronics' Lifeband Touch and Heart Rate Earphones are the first wearable fitness devices to be offered by the vendor and are designed to work with smartphones and apps for an integrated and full-featured wearable ecosystem.
The LG Lifeband Touch features a bright, full-touch OLED display that shows a full range of fitness data. It is compatible with both Android and iOS operating systems and is designed to work with the LG Fitness app, along with other popular apps such as MyFitnessPal, Runkeeper and MapMyFitness.
It features a unique motion-sensing algorithm that automatically turns on the display when wearers rotate a wrist. It features two sensors -- a triple-axis accelerometer and an altimeter. The LG Lifeband Touch is available in three wrist sizes.
When used in conjunction with the also-new LG HeartRate Earphones ($180.00), the Touch can be used to monitor heart rates. The earphones measure blood flow signals in the ear. LG claims that due to the unique physiology of the ear, wearers can get more accurate health and fitness metrics with the LG unit than with other devices. It can be worn alone or with the LG Lifeband Touch. When used with the LG Fitness app (Android or iOS), users can also receive audible status updates informing them of their heart rate and VO2 (maximum oxygen consumption). The LG HeartRate Earphones also allow hands-free calling and voice guide.
As an added bonus, the LG Lifeband Touch enables users to check incoming phone calls and messages (although it cannot make or receive calls) and control music playlists on their smartphones, essential features that enable users to continue their workouts uninterrupted. The 90-mAh battery is claimed to be good for up to five days between charges.
First impressions conveyed by early reviews of the Lifeband Touch sift through some pros and cons. For example, some users complained about the weight of the device and its tendency to slide freely between wrist and forearm, mainly due to its lack of a fastening strap. Others observed that although the device is designed primarily for outdoor use, the OLED screen is hard to read in sunlight.
Retailing in the U.S. for $149.99, the LG Lifeband Touch features an 0.9-inch OLED (128 x 32) touch screen scroll display and communicates through Bluetooth 4.0.
After its introduction in the U.S., it will be subsequently rolled out in key markets in Asia and Europe.
