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Asus is adding a myriad of features to its upcoming ZenWatch 2 smartwatch when it is released later this year, including a new metal watch crown, a Wellness smartphone app and a wider range of choices in watch body colors, sizes and strap designs and colors.
The stylish ZenWatch 2, which is produced in partnership with Google and is powered by Android Wear, was unveiled by Asus at the Computex technology show in Taipei, Taiwan, on June 1 as part of a broad array of new products from the company.
The ZenWatch 2 works with Android phones to deliver calls, messages, notifications and other information to users right on their wrist, without having to glance at their phone, according to Asus.
The watch will be customizable for users by selecting from among two watch face sizes—49mm or 45mm—as well as from three colors for the devices’ stainless steel body—silver, gunmetal or rose gold. Users will also be able to select from 18 different strap material and color combinations, including rubber, leather or metal watchbands. The rubber straps will be available in blue, orange, red or taupe, while the leather bands will be available in khaki, brown, gray, blue or orange. The stainless-steel bands will be offered in silver, gunmetal or rose gold colors to match the watch’s case colors.
A special leather strap that will be embossed with a diamond pattern and be accented with Swarovski crystals will also be offered through a partnership with Swarovski Professional, according to Asus.
Users also will be able to quickly choose from more than 100 digital watch faces on the ZenWatch 2. The faces can be changed depending on the wearer’s mood, making the watches customizable to match clothing, special events or for any other whim. Users can also create their own customized watch face designs with Asus’ new Watch Face Land app.
Pricing and availability dates for the smartwatches have not yet been announced by the company.
The latest ZenWatch 2 builds upon the original ZenWatch in offering a new metal watch crown as well as an all-new magnetic charger that shortens battery recharge times. Also included is a new Wellness smartphone app that can serve as a personal activity and fitness manager to help users track their activities and achieve personal fitness goals, according to Asus.
The watch crystal of the upcoming smartwatch is made from Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for toughness and scratch resistance and has a gentle curve for improved swiping capabilities for users.
The ZenWatch 2 also includes an improved Enhanced Remote Camera, part of the original ZenWatch, and lets wearers display their smartphone’s camera viewfinder remotely right on their wrist. This feature allows them to take photos from creative angles where the viewfinder would be difficult to see, such as when holding the phone overhead at a concert or other crowded event. The device also has an IP67 water-resistance rating, which allows users to wear it all day, even in the shower or during exercise.