IFA 2016: Asus has unveiled the ZenWatch 3, a new smartwatch that ditches the square-faced approach of its predecessors.
The Asus ZenWatch 3 is designed to connect to Android and iOS devices and features Android Wear as its operating system. It features a 1.39-inch AMOLED display with a 400×400-pixel display and a resolution density of 287 PPI – almost identical to the Huawei Watch.
Processing duties are taken care of by the new Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 2100, which should mean much a punchier interface than the ZenWatch 2. Connection with a device is done over Bluetooth 4.1.
The ZenWatch 3 also has HyperCharge technology that is said to allow a 60 per cent charge of its 340mAh battery in a mere 15 minutes and can last as long as two days on a single full charge. Water and sweat resistance comes in the form of an IP67 rating.
Just in case the idea of connecting a magnetic charging cable really bothers you (or you spend a lot of time away from plugs), an optional battery pack with an extra 200mAh capacity – a 40 per cent increase – is available.
As for controlling it, there are three physical crown buttons that provide speedy access to frequently used functions, including the ZenFit activity tracking app that basically tells you how lazy you have been.
Each watch is made from 316L stainless steel that is said to be 82 per cent stronger than conventional steel and the case is 9.95mm thick, making it skinnier than the Apple Watch. 2.5D Corning Gorilla glass is used to protect the digital display from scratches and general wear and tear.
Three colours are available: Gunmetal, Silver and Rose Gold (the Recombu favourite). As for the strap, you can choose between stitched Italian leather or high-quality rubber, both of which are available in a dark brown or beige colour.
Those who really want to customise the ZenWatch 3 can choose between 50 different digital faces within the ZenWatch Manager app or create their own using the FaceDesigner app.
No word on a UK price or release date, but Asus has stated a €229 price when it goes on sale in Europe. A US release has also been announced. Stay tuned for further details.
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