Alibaba's Qwen Glasses get more AI oomph

Alibaba has made a major upgrade to its Qwen AI Glasses with the introduction of proactive AI services, expanded everyday-life capabilities, and spatial 3D display capabilities. The update marks a significant step in evolving its AI wearables from a passive assistant into an intuitive, anticipatory companion, the company said.

Moving beyond traditional "ask-and-answer" interactions, the new proactive service system enables Qwen Glasses to understand context and act ahead of user requests. By learning user preferences and behaviour patterns and integrating real-time signals such as time, location, and environmental conditions, the AI delivers timely reminders or executes tasks automatically.

For example, the glasses can analyse weather forecasts, individual schedules, and the current location to proactively suggest bringing an umbrella if rain is expected during the morning commute. The device can track how long it’s been worn and user's postures, reminding them to lift their head and stretch.

The proactive capability also supports a range of everyday functions, including morning news briefings, personalised music playlists, workout route tracking, navigation, and fitness milestone tracking. Together, these features enable the glasses to provide continuous assistance throughout the day.

In addition, several core capabilities of Alibaba’s consumer-facing Qwen App will soon be available on the glasses, including ride-hailing, food delivery, trip planning, review searches, and movie ticket purchases. Users can access these services directly through the glasses, minimising phone dependency a range of work and lifestyle scenarios. 

Notably, the upgraded Qwen Glasses pioneers spatial 3D display in AI glasses, using dual optical engines with binocular stereoscopic imaging technology to deliver high-quality 3D visuals. Unlike conventional smart glasses that project flat 2D overlays, Qwen Glasses renders information with depth, layering, and spatial awareness. This allows navigation prompts, information cards, and other content to appear more naturally within the user’s field of view, enhancing readability and comfort.

Source: Alibaba.  Alibaba debuted the Qwen Glasses at Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, accelerating its wearable AI strategy and unifying its AI ecosystem under the flagship Qwen brand.

According to Wellsenn XR, a research firm specialising in the smart glasses industry, Qwen Glasses have captured a 53% market share in China based on cumulative online sales since their official launch.

Samsung Galaxy Watch8 series helps users get healthier

A recent study has estimated that Singapore could save up to S$650 M in direct healthcare costs if Singaporeans made long-term changes to their lifestyles.

Sleep is one area where Singaporeans could do better. According to a 2024 YouGov study, 66% of Singaporeans continue to struggle with getting seven or more hours of sleep.

This is where a smartwatch can help. The  recently-launched Galaxy Watch8 and Watch8 Classic are boast the thinnest and most comfortable Galaxy watches ever⁶  for continuous health tracking. Features on the Samsung Health app⁸ which can help consumers build healthier habits include:

- Vascular Load¹: the amount of stress on your vascular system while sleeping. 

- Bedtime Guidance², a feature that measures users’ circadian rhythm to suggest the optimal time to go to bed.

“Sleep remains a cornerstone of our approach to health, as it influences physical and mental well-being, social relationships and even work performance,” said Dr Hon Pak, Senior VP and Head of Digital Health Team, Mobile eXperience, Samsung Electronics, in a statement shared in July. 

“Now, we envision our Galaxy Watch delivering holistic insights centred around sleep — insights that lead to meaningful changes in daily life. We believe this aligns with our vision of empowering you to lead healthier lives through proactive care and holistic health management.” 

If high levels of stress persist, High Stress Alert will immediately signal users for a break. There is also the Mindfulness Tracker, through which users can record their mood and receive guidance on breathing exercises to relieve stress.

The Galaxy Watch is also the first in the industry to introduce Antioxidant Index³, a feature to measure carotenoids via its BioActive sensor. Antioxidants help to protect against cell damage and slow ageing. 

The BioActive Sensor can provide a number of real-time insights: 

- The Sleep Apnea⁴ feature, approved for use by the Singapore Health Sciences Authority (HSA), enables users to detect moderate to severe signs of sleep apnea, when proper breathing is affected while sleeping. The condition affects approximately one in three Singaporeans.

- The Galaxy Watch8’s enhanced Electrocardiogram (ECG)⁵ can better capture ectopic beats, extra or skipped heartbeats that occur outside of the normal heart rhythm. While mostly harmless, identification of frequent ectopic beats could add to insights for preventive care. 

The Galaxy Watch8 Series further delivers personalised fitness insights. Running Coach⁹ calculates users’ fitness level from 1 to 10 and develops a tailored training plan complete with real-time guidance and motivational insights. With the Together feature which now supports running, users can gamify their fitness journey by challenging friends and family. 

Plus, the AI-powered Energy Score¹⁰ gives consumers a snapshot of their energy level, combining physical and mental energy metrics to guide users to plan for a healthier day ahead.  

The distinctive cushion design, which debuted with Galaxy Watch Ultra, now defines the entire Galaxy Watch lineup. To achieve the thinnest design yet, the internal structure of the Galaxy Watch8 Series was completely reengineered, resulting in an 11% thinner design⁷. Combined with the Dynamic Lug system, the new Galaxy Watch8 Series fits snugly on the wrist, providing greater comfort and improved stability⁶ for a better fit and enhanced health-tracking accuracy.

A 3 nm processor delivers faster performance and greater power efficiency. The display is 50% brighter⁶ with a peak brightness of 3,000 nits for easy visibility, even under bright sunlight, while the dual-frequency GPS provides more detailed and precise location results⁶. 

Source: Samsung. The Samsung Galaxy Watch8 and Watch8 Classic smart watches were launched in Singapore in July.

Developed in close collaboration with Google, the Galaxy Watch8 Series is the first smartwatch to come out of the box with Gemini¹¹, Google’s AI assistant, and be powered by Wear OS 6. Go hands-free using natural voice commands to get things done on the go with Galaxy Watch apps like Samsung Health, Calendar, Reminder, and Clock. For example, saying “Start a 30-minute run” initiates the workout in Samsung Health.  

Available in 44 mm or 40 mm sizes and in Graphite or Silver, the Galaxy Watch8 provides comfort and style. Meanwhile, Galaxy Watch8 Classic brings offers a rotating bezel and a quick button for added convenience. The Classic model measures 46 mm and comes in Black and White. Both models can be matched with a diverse range of bands¹². 

For those who love outdoor adventures, the Galaxy Watch Ultra is the most advanced and durable Galaxy Watch model yet. The 2025 edition has a storage capacity of 64 GB, up from 32 GB in previous editions. In Singapore, a new Titanium Blue colour will be introduced as part of the launch.

For consumers who are looking for a more discreet wearable that offers continuous health tracking, Samsung recommended the Galaxy Ring. With up to seven days of battery life, the ring is available in Titanium Black, Titanium Silver and Titanium Gold, in sizes 5-15¹³.

Samsung also recently announced the availability of the One UI 8 Watch update for Galaxy Watch Ultra (2024) to help more Galaxy users to unlock motivational health features.

1 Service only available with Galaxy Watch Ultra or later released Galaxy Watch Series. To measure vascular load, wear the Galaxy Watch when sleeping for at least three days out of the most recent 14 days. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment of any medical condition.

2 Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment of any medical condition or sleep disorder. Bedtime guidance is available on Android phone (Android 11 and above) requires Samsung Health app (v6.30.2 or later). It is based on three days of sleep analysis of user’s circadian rhythm and sleep pressure.

3 Service only available with Galaxy Watch Ultra or later released Galaxy Watch Series. To measure, place the centre of your finger on the sensor at the back of the Watch and hold it for 5 seconds. While the Antioxidant Index can be measured using any finger, the thumb is recommended for the most accurate result. Repeated measurement due to uneven skin texture may lead to inaccurate results.

4 The Sleep Apnea feature is an over-the-counter (OTC), software-only, mobile medical application operating on a compatible Samsung Galaxy Watch and Phone. This feature is intended to detect signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in the form of significant breathing disruptions in adult users 22 years and older, over a two-night monitoring period. It is intended for on-demand use. 

This feature is not intended for users who have previously been diagnosed with sleep apnea. Users should not use this feature to replace traditional methods of diagnosis and treatment by a qualified clinician. The data provided by this device is also not intended to assist clinicians in diagnosing sleep disorders. Availability may vary by market, carrier, model or a paired smartphone.

5 The ECG feature is only available in select markets. It is not intended to replace traditional methods of diagnosis or treatment. The feature is not intended for users with known arrhythmias other than AFib. Users should not interpret or take clinical action based on the device output without consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. 

6 Compared to the previous Galaxy Watches.  

7 Compared to the Galaxy Watch7 Series.

8 Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment, monitoring or management of any medical condition or disease. Any health-related information accessed through the device and/or application should not be treated as medical advice. Users should seek any medical advice from a physician. Certain features may vary by market, carrier, or the device paired.  

9 Prior to starting the coach program, taking a running level test and receiving a level designation is required.  

10 Only available when user register a compatible Galaxy Watch or Galaxy Ring at least once.  

11 Gemini mobile app available on select devices, languages, and countries at launch. Availability of features will be progressively rolled out in Singapore. Requires compatible Wear OS watch to be connected to a compatible device. Check responses for accuracy. Internet connection and set up may be required. Features may differ depending on subscription and account. Results for illustrative purposes and may vary.  

12 Sold separately. Availability of watch bands may vary by market or carrier.  

13 Colour and size availability may vary by market.

Xiaomi Smart Band 10 debuts

Source: Xiaomi. The Xiaomi Smart Band 10 combines fashion, fitness and functionality.

Xiaomi, a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company, has launched Xiaomi Smart Band 10, a wearable that blends fashion, fitness, and smart functionality.

A 1.72" AMOLED display with symmetrical 2 mm bezels, 326 pixels per inch (PPI) resolution and 1,500 nits High Brightness Mode (HBM) deliver vibrant visuals.

The 73% screen-to-body ratio, 60 Hz refresh rate,¹ plus over 200 watch faces,¹⁵ including five interactive mini-games, offer a touch of fun. Moisture-resistant touch control ensures reliable interaction in a wide range of environments. 

Xiaomi Smart Band 10 offers over 150 workout modes, including six auto-detection³ activities and advanced metrics such as VO₂ max, training load, and recovery time. The upgraded swim mode features real-time heart rate monitoring and 96% lap count accuracy⁴ thanks to a 9-axis motion sensor and 5 ATM water resistance⁵.

Xiaomi Smart Band 10 also offers 24x7 tracking of heart rate,⁹ SpO₂,¹⁰ and stress¹¹.  A new heart rate broadcast⁶ feature via Bluetooth enables real-time data sharing with compatible devices.⁷

For rest and recovery, Xiaomi Smart Band 10 offers professional sleep management,⁸ combining foundational sleep monitoring with two new dimensions: sleep efficiency and distribution. These provide users with a more comprehensive understanding of their sleep quality. Xiaomi Smart Band 10 further delivers personalised guidance¹⁷ based on these insights, helping to improve sleep habits.

In collaboration with the World Sleep Society, the Asian Society of Sleep Medicine, and the Chinese Sleep Research Society, Xiaomi introduced its first-ever 21-day professional sleep improvement programme. Users can set personalised sleep goals, receive expert-recommended guidance, and gain deeper insights through continuous sleep monitoring. The programme delivers tailored insights to help enhance sleep quality with greater clarity and precision.

Xiaomi Smart Band 10 also connects to Xiaomi HyperOS 2-enabled Xiaomi smartphones, tablets and earphones¹⁶ through Xiaomi Smart Hub,¹² offering quick control over paired devices directly from the wrist. Real-time notifications, calendar sync,¹³ and customisable quick replies¹⁴ help users stay connected throughout the day, while a silent mode¹⁴ adds flexibility.

Every alert feels more intuitive thanks to a precision linear motor and updated haptic algorithm that supports customisable vibration for calls, alarms, and messages.

Backed by a 233 mAh battery, Xiaomi Smart Band 10 delivers up to 21 days of typical use,³ or nine days with Always-on Display, and fully recharges in about an hour³.

Xiaomi also shared the return of the Xiaomi POP Run in Singapore. Open to everyone, the Xiaomi POP Run 2025 will be held on July 12 at Gardens By The Bay’s Silver Garden. Limited to the first 200 participants, those interested can sign up online via https://new.c.mi.com/poprun/sg/index.html

Details

The Xiaomi Smart Band 10 comes in a new Pearl White ceramic edition and has 10 accessories, including a pearl-chain pendant² with four wearing modes

The wearable will be available for purchase in Singapore on mi.com, Shopee ,Lazada, Xiaomi stores and authorised retailers from June 27. From June 27 to July 27, consumers can top up S$0.10 to purchase selected accessories, or enjoy up to 50% discount on accessories such as Xiaomi Band 10 straps.

Xiaomi Smart Band 10
Product	Colours	RRP
Regular edition	Mystic Rose, Midnight Black, Glacier Silver	S$56
Ceramic edition	Pearl White	S$78

*RRP stands for recommended retail price. 

Xiaomi's POP Run 2025 in Singapore is in July

Source: Xiaomi. Poster for the Singapore Xiaomi POP Run 2025.

Xiaomi POP Run 2025 is a global initiative that takes place annually across 16 regions, including Singapore. During the run event, participants can sync their progress and fitness data to the Mi Fitness app via their Xiaomi wearables. This year's theme is Passion Beyond Limits.

The Singapore run, which will be held on July 12 at Gardens by the Bay’s Silver Garden, will take on a fun run format across 3 km. This year’s run is open to the first 200 participants who register.

All registered participants will receive a unique race kit along with perks from Xiaomi - more details will be shared through the POP Run confirmation email that they receive after registration*. Race kits can be collected between July 5 and 11. More details will be shared closer to date via email.

Details

Sign up online at https://new.c.mi.com/poprun/sg/index.html

Date	July 12, 2025 (Saturday)
Time	Registration starts at 7am
Venue	Silver Garden, Gardens By The Bay 18 Marina Gardens Drive Singapore 018953

*Successful registrants of the Xiaomi POP Run 2025 will be notified via email. They will also receive race kit collection details.

Pay with Garmin's new fēnix 5 Plus outdoor smartwatch series

- The new Garmin fēnix 5 Plus series come in three models

- New family features enhanced mapping and navigation, more storage and cashless payment through Garmin Pay

From left: fēnix 5s Plus (blue band); fēnix 5 Plus (orange
band); fēnix 5X Plus (black band).

Garmin Singapore has announced the fēnix 5 Plus series, its next generation of GPS multisport watches with built-in routable topographical maps, storage for music playlists, the Garmin Pay contactless payment solution, and wrist-based Pulse Ox Acclimation¹ for blood oxygen saturation awareness.

The fēnix 5 Plus series is the latest solution from Garmin’s expanding outdoor segment, which focuses on developing technologies and innovations to enhance users’ outdoor experiences. Like other fēnix 5 watches, the fēnix 5S Plus, fēnix 5 Plus and fēnix 5X Plus are built for athletes, sports enthusiasts, and adventures of all sizes. These rugged yet premium crafted watches range in size from 42-51 mm and all boast a bright, sunlight readable display.

The fēnix 5S Plus is designed for smaller wrists. Despite its size, its 1.2" display is almost a 20% increase over that of the fēnix 5S.

The fēnix 5X Plus is Garmin’s first wearable to offer a wrist-based Pulse Ox sensor for blood oxygen saturation awareness, which is especially useful when adjusting to higher altitudes. On strenuous climbs, users can take advantage of the 24x7 mode option to assess how well they are adjusting to the thinner air.

“Our customers in Singapore will be delighted that we have added exciting new features to our most popular outdoor GPS wearable series,” said Engelhard Al Sundoro, MD, South East Asia, Garmin. “Some of these most sought-after features include built-in mapping, music and contactless payments to each new model in the fēnix 5 Plus series; and with the introduction of the Pulse Ox feature in the fēnix 5X Plus, our customers can now have more confidence taking their adventures to the next level.”

Sundoro introduces Garmin to the audience at the launch ceremony.

Integrated with wrist-based heart rate and all the multisport and smart connectivity features of the previous fēnix 5 models, each of the models in the Plus series will also include built-in map data optimised for at-a-glance navigation and location tracking. These maps can be used with the round-trip course creator that allows runners and cyclists to enter a distance they would like to run or ride, then select a route from a list of appropriate courses to choose from. The Trendline popularity routing feature uses Garmin Connect data to help users find and follow the best trails and running routes based on billions of miles logged by previous Garmin users.

The fēnix 5S Plus, fēnix 5 Plus, and fēnix 5X Plus will also offer on-device music storage, up to 500 songs, for phone-free listening. Once the playlist is loaded, the device is paired with compatible Bluetooth headphones (sold separately) to begin listening. All sizes of the Plus series will also include Garmin Pay, a contactless payment solution³. Utilising their Garmin Pay wallet, users have the same rewards and benefits of paying with the physical cards, with the added convenience of having them right on the wrist. In Singapore, Garmin already has a partnership with OCBC for contactless payments.

Each fēnix 5 Plus model is packed with training features to help monitor form and performance. Users can tap into physiological metrics, running dynamics and more to track workout stats, measure progress and finetune their form. Training status automatically evaluates recent exercise history to let users know if they are overtraining, maintaining or peaking.

The fēnix 5 Plus series are Connect IQ-compatible, so users customise their watch with widgets, data fields, watch faces and apps. When paired with a compatible smartphone⁴, users can get call, text and email notifications right on their wrist. Additionally, users can customise the look of their watch with QuickFit bands. A silicone band can be swapped for a leather or titanium strap, with no tools necessary. The QuickFit bands are also available in new colours.

Every fēnix 5 Plus watch features multi-network satellite reception, now including the Galileo global navigation satellite system to track location where using GPS alone may be challenging. This is particularly helpful when adventuring in places without a clear view of the sky, like deep canyons or urban environments.

Users can choose between a PVD-coated stainless-steel bezel with silicone watch band; or for a lighter material, a high-performing titanium bezel version with brushed titanium bracelet available on the fēnix 5 Plus and fēnix 5X Plus series. Each version features a full-colour Garmin Chroma Display with LED backlighting to assure sunlight readability and is water-rated to 100 m⁵.

The fēnix 5S Plus can get up to six days in smartwatch mode, up to 10 hours in GPS mode, and up to four hours in GPS and Music mode⁶; the fēnix 5 Plus can get up to 10 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to seven hours in GPS and Music mode; and the fēnix 5X Plus can get up to 18 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 11 hours in GPS and Music mode. Users can also activate the UltraTrac power saver mode to extend battery life.

Chua is wearing the fenix 5s Plus.

Jeri Chua, Founder, Red Dot Running Company, an ultra marathoner and also a Garmin ambassador, spoke at the launch about her relationship with Garmin. She has used Garmin devices for over 10 years, and has been very impressed with the fenix 5s Plus. The watch allowed her to self-navigate during a 200km event in Singapore, she said.

"I can't tell left from right. If I'm going in the wrong direction, the watch will tell me," she said. "In 24 hours of running I didn't get lost...You know exactly where you are at any one time."

The premium build has stood her in good stead as well. She shared that the watch has survived heavy wear and tear, including a fall where she landed on it, and accidental impacts against stair railings. "In six months I've gone through several ultra marathons," she said. "The watch has come out unscathed."

Sensors on the underside of the
fenix 5s Plus.

She also likes the styling, as the watch looks like a dress watch, and added features such as being able to pair Bluetooth headphones easily.

Details:

The fēnix 5 Plus series has the following recommended retail prices in Singapore⁷:

• Fenix 5s Plus, Black with black band, S$1,199
• Fenix 5s Plus, Rosegold with beige leather band, S$1,199
• Fenix 5 Plus, Sapphire DLC Carbon Gray with black band, S$1,229. 
• Fenix 5 Plus, Sapphire Carbon Gray, DLC titanium with DLC titanium band, S$1,599
• Fenix 5X Plus, Sapphire DLC Carbon Gray with black band, S$1,299
• Fenix 5X Plus, Sapphire Carbon Gray DLC titanium with DLC titanium band, S$1,699

DLC stands for diamond-like carbon, and provides durability and excellent protection, Garmin said. The titanium and leather band options are bundled with silicon bands.

The devices come preloaded with maps for some Southeast Asian countries, including Singapore, Malaysia and Philippines, and will accommodate other maps (sold separately) as long as there is storage space available - there is about 11 GB of space available for maps and music on the Fenix 5s Plus. The map for all of Southeast Asia is about 500 MB in size.

Explore:

Read the WorkSmart Asia blog post about the new Garmin vivoactive 3 smartwatch

¹ This is not a medical device; see Garmin.com/ataccuracy. Pulse Ox is not available in all countries.

² May require premium subscription by a third-party music provider.

³ Available for supported cards from participating banks

⁴ See Garmin.com/ble for more details.

⁵ See Garmin.com/waterrating for more details. The Garmin Descent Mk1, also rated to 100 m, is a watch-sized dive computer with GPS functionality.

⁶ Depending on settings.

⁷Available at Advance Lap, Best Denki, Challenger, Courts, Gain City, Harvey Norman and all authorised retailers.  

National Bank of Kuwait discounts wearables used for contactless payment

Source: NBK website. Tap & Pay can be enabled on a watch which is then tapped on the payment terminal to deduct money from an NBK card account.

The National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) is offering its Tap & Pay wearables for KD12 instead of KD25 to give more customers an opportunity to experience the technology.

NBK Tap & Pay is a secure payment solution technology that allows small purchases to be made without signing or using a PIN. Instead, customers place a Tap & Pay wristband or Tap & Pay sticker on their mobile phone on the payment terminal to deduct the amount from their NBK credit, debit, or prepaid card. Tap & Pay accepts purchases of up to KD100.

More than 7,000 restaurants, shops, entertainment centres, coffee shops and lifestyle brands now accept the NBK Tap & Pay service in Kuwait, in addition to different locations around the world.

“We’ve launched this promotion, offering a discount on Tap & Pay wristbands and stickers, to give customers a chance to try it out and discover how much easier this stylish and innovative payment technology makes their lives. Tap & Pay technology is convenient to use, seamless and simple. It makes small payments easy and safe while enhancing the checkout experience,” said Naser Alduwaisan, Cards Products Officer, National Bank of Kuwait.

Details:

The offer is available at NBK branches at The Avenues, Grand Avenues, Surra, Qurain, KNPC, Al-Hamra and Mishref. Phone orders are accepted via the NBK Call Center at 1801 801.

And now, you can take calls on your Apple Watch

Source: Apple. Apple Watch 3 includes phone capabilities.

Apple has introduced Apple Watch Series 3, adding built-in cellular to the smart watch. Apple Watch Series 3 with cellular allows users to stay connected, make calls, receive texts and more, even without an iPhone nearby.

The third-generation Apple Watch is billed as a health and fitness companion with intelligent coaching features, water resistance of up to 50m¹ and a new barometric altimeter that measures relative elevation. 

Apple Watch Series 3 comes in two models, one with GPS alone and one with both GPS and cellular. Both feature a 70% faster dual-core processor and new wireless chip.

“We believe the addition of cellular will transform the way people use Apple Watch, providing a new sense of freedom since they can stay connected with or without their iPhone,” said Jeff Williams, Apple’s COO. “Apple Watch Series 3 combined with the power of watchOS 4 is the ultimate device for a healthy life.”

The combination of cellular and watchOS 4 will allow Apple Music users to stream 40 million songs right from their wrist. 

Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) features a full LTE and UMTS cellular radio that switches seamlessly to cellular when it is away from an iPhone. Customers have the ability to make cellular calls directly with Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) and, when paired with AirPods, enjoy a seamless and fully wireless experience. The watch shares the same number as the owner's iPhone. To help get customers started, participating carriers are also offering special introductory cellular plans at launch.

Apple also pioneered an antenna design that uses the display itself as both a transmitting and receiving element for LTE and UMTS, while introducing a built-in eSIM that is over one-hundredth the size of a traditional SIM card. This makes over-the-air activation possible without compromising on space².

Powering Apple Watch Series 3 is the S3, Apple’s third-generation architecture featuring a faster dual-core processor, which allows for quicker app launch times and smoother graphics, and, for the first time, enables Siri to speak using the built-in speaker. Apple designed a new custom wireless chip called W2, making Wi-Fi 85% faster and Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 50% more power efficient, while still providing all-day battery life and keeping the size virtually the same as before. Apple Watch Series 3 also features a barometric altimeter that assists with tracking activity, flights climbed and outdoor workouts, including elevation gain.

WatchOS 4 features an updated Heart Rate app, giving more insights to heart rate, including measurements during resting, workout, recovery, walking and Breathe sessions. Customers can also choose to receive a notification when their heart rate is elevated above a specific threshold while inactive. Other watchOS 4 highlights include the proactive Siri watch face that displays the information users need most throughout the day, an enhanced Workout app with new interface, custom High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) workout type and auto-sets for pool swims. With GymKit, users will soon enjoy the ability to connect to their favourite cardio equipment and experience two-way synchronisation of data with just a tap3.

The redesigned Music app experience automatically syncs playlists like New Music Mix and Favourites Mix, along with the user’s most listened to music. Later this year, Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) will stream music, giving users access to any song from Apple Music, straight from the wrist. The new Radio app also enables listeners to access Beats 1 live or any Apple Music radio station while away from iPhone or Wi-Fi.

In addition to silver or space grey aluminium, Apple Watch Series 3 now comes in gold aluminium, along with silver or space black stainless steel cases. All pair with an assortment of new bands and styles. The Woven Nylon is updated with a new pattern and the lightweight Sport Loop effortlessly adjusts to fit wrists.

Apple Watch Nike+ has been popular, and this fall (roughly Q3 to Q4), the partnership continues with both models of Series 3 pairing with a new pure platinum/black Nike Sport Band or Sport Loop in exclusive grey. The Nike Run Club app has been updated to introduce new features such as Audio Guided Runs that deliver coaching and motivation from Nike’s elite coaches, athletes and entertainers, and Cheers which makes running more fun by allowing friends to send audio-based cheers as motivation. Just Do It Sundays continues to provide inspiration and rewards from participation in the world’s largest running community.

Apple Watch Hermès models come with built-in cellular and pair with a collection of new bands, including the Single Tour Rallye in perforated Gala calfskin, inspired by the classic Hermès driving glove, and the Single Tour Eperon d’Or, in printed Gala calfskin, inspired by the equestrian scarf pattern designed by Henri d’Origny in 1974. A new watch face, inspired by the Carrick Hermès watch, also designed by Henri d’Origny in 1993, completes the existing selection of Hermès watch faces.

Interested?

Apple Watch is available in two different case sizes, 38mm and 42mm. Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) will be available in gold, silver or space grey aluminium, or silver or space black stainless steel paired with a variety of bands. Featuring new upgrades like a faster dual-core processor and wireless chip, along with a barometric altimeter, Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) also debuts a special red Digital Crown and exclusive “Explorer” watch face that shows cellular connectivity through a unique design.

Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) will be available in gold, silver or space grey aluminium cases with a Sport Band starting at S$498. Apple Watch Series 1 is available in silver or space grey aluminium cases paired with a Sport Band with a new starting price of S$378. Models will be available from apple.com/sg and Apple Stores, as well as select Apple Authorised Resellers and carriers (prices may vary). Check for Singapore availability. Apple Watch Nike+ starts at S$498.

Beginning September 15, Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) will be available to order in 10 countries and territories, and Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) will be available to order in 28 countries and territories. Both models are available in stores starting September 22.

Customers in the Asia Pacific and Middle East regions can order Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) beginning September 15, with availability beginning September 22 in Australia, mainland China, and Japan. Other countries will follow next year. Check for carrier availability.

Customers will be able to order Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) beginning September 15, with availability beginning September 22 in Australia, mainland China, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, and Taiwan. Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) will be available beginning September 23 in UAE. Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) will then be available beginning September 29 in Guam, India, Macau, Thailand and Turkey, followed by availability beginning September 30 in KSA, Kuwait, and Qatar.

Apple Watch Series 1 is available on apple.com/sg and anywhere Apple Watch is sold.

Apple Watch Nike+ will be available to order on apple.com/sg beginning September 15, with limited availability from October 5 in Australia, mainland China, Guam, Hong Kong, India, Japan, KSA, Kuwait, Macau, New Zealand, Qatar, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, and the UAE. Apple Watch Hermès will be available to order on apple.com/sg beginning September 15, with availability beginning September 22 in Australia, China, and Japan.

New Apple Watch bands are available today on apple.com/sg and will be available soon at Apple Stores, as well as select Apple Authorised Resellers and carriers in the US and over 35 countries and regions, including Australia, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and the UAE.

Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) requires iPhone 6 or later running iOS 11 or later and Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) requires iPhone 5S or later running iOS 11 or later. Some features are not available in all regions or all languages.

Customers who buy Apple Watch from Apple will be offered free Personal Setup in-store or online³ to help set up and personalise their new Apple Watch with calendars, notifications, apps and more.

Anyone who wants to start with the basics or go further with their new Apple Watch can sign up for free Today at Apple sessions.

Read the WorkSmart Asia blog posts on the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus, and the iPhone X.

1 Apple Watch Series 3 has a water resistance rating of 50 m under ISO standard 22810:2010. This means that it may be used for shallow-water activities like swimming in a pool or ocean. However, Apple Watch Series 3 should not be used for scuba diving, waterskiing or other activities involving high-velocity water or submersion below shallow depth. Stainless steel and leather bands are not water resistant.

2 Apple Watch and iPhone service provider must be the same. Not available with all service providers. Roaming is not available outside your carrier network coverage area. Wireless service plan required for cellular service. Contact your service provider for more details. Check apple.com/watch/cellular for participating wireless carriers and eligibility.

3 In most countries.

Place a finger to your ear for your next conference call

Source: Origami Labs. The ORII smart ring is splashproof.

Move over, smart watches. The world’s first voice-powered smart ring, ORII, has launched on Kickstarter. The Bluetooth-enabled ring turns the hand into a smartphone using cutting-edge bone conduction technology to transmit sound.

ORII has dual noise-cancelling microphones that lets wearers make calls, send messages and access Siri or Google Assistant without needing to take out their phones, all by placing a fingertip to the ear. With the ORII app, users can also set custom alerts using the four LED lights on the wearable, or have it vibrate.

Beta users' rings (US$399) will ship in November 2017, and the first batch of rings (US$149) will be delivered in February 2018.

ORII is the first product from Origami Labs, a maker of voice-enabled connected hardware. The company was founded by four Hong Kong-born university friends.

Source: Origami Labs. Make discreet calls wherever you are.

Kevin Johan Wong, CEO and Co-Founder of Origami Labs said, “Our inspiration came from my dad who has been visually impaired from a young age. He set out to develop a voice and text-based technology to help others like him and is a pioneer in his field with eight patents under his name. Integrating the same technology used in hearing aids, ORII uses bone conduction to send sound discreetly to your ear, creating a device which allows freedom from screen-based interaction.”

According to a CCS Insight report, 2020 will see a wearables market worth close to US$34 billion.


Interested?

The splash-proof ORII comes in three colours - matte black, sandblasted silver and metallic dark grey

It is estimated to be good for an hour of talk time, and will require an hour of charging

Visit the Kickstarter page for ORII. At the time of writing ORII has already surpassed its Kickstarter target, but early bird rings are still available for US$99

Garmin rolls out three fēnix 5 multisport GPS wearables

Source: Garmin. The fēnix 5 family of multisport GPS watches.

Garmin International has introduced the fēnix 5, fēnix 5S and fēnix 5X multisport GPS wearables, designed with adventurers of all sizes in mind.

All of the fēnix 5 models are 24x7 wearable with extended battery life, daily activity tracking*, Garmin Elevate wrist heart rate technology, and various connected features**. Measuring 47mm, the fēnix 5 is more compact than previous models like the fēnix 3HR, but is still packed with multisport features. The fēnix 5S is lighter, sleeker and smaller than previous models – perfect for small wrists without sacrificing multisport functionality, while the fēnix 5X boasts preloaded wrist-based mapping.

Additionally, fēnix 5S has been named a CES 2017 Innovation Awards Honoree in the wearable technologies category. Products entered in this prestigious programme are judged by a preeminent panel of independent industrial designers, independent engineers and members of the trade media to honour outstanding design and engineering in cutting-edge consumer electronics products across 28 product categories.

“After years in the wearables market, Garmin knows that athletes and adventurers come in all sizes, which is why we have designed the new line of fēnix 5 watches to fit every wrist and every workout,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin VP of worldwide sales. “This is the first time Garmin has created a variety of sizes for one product so now users don't have to choose between getting the features they want and wearing a watch that fits.”

All of the new fēnix 5 models are available in a variety of colours and finishes with more accessory bands available (sold separately), which makes the new QuickFit bands a great addition. Users can mix and match between their choice of leather, metal or silicone watchbands and switch between them in seconds with no tools needed.

The first fēnix designed with a focus on female adventurers, the fēnix 5S is a sleek, smaller-sized watch. At 42mm, fēnix 5S is small and comfortable for petite wrists, without compromising any multisport features. The fēnix 5S is available in silver with either a white, turquoise or black silicone band with a mineral glass lens. The fēnix 5S Sapphire has a scratch-resistant sapphire lens and is available in black with a black band, champagne with a water resistant gray suede band or champagne with a metal band. The fēnix 5S Sapphire units also come with an extra silicone QuickFit band.

Preloaded with TOPO US mapping, routable cycling maps and other navigation features like Round Trip Run and Round Trip Ride, the fēnix 5X measures at 51mm. With these features, users can enter how far they’d like to run or ride, and their watch will suggest appropriate courses to choose from. Users can also get at-a-glance guidance from their fēnix 5X. During an activity, easy-to-read guidance cues for upcoming turns are displayed as banners on the watch so users are always aware of their route. Additionally, fēnix 5X users can use the Around Me map mode to see different points of interest, waypoints and other map objects within the user’s range to help users be more aware of their surroundings. Users can configure their fēnix 5X to see data overlays on mapping screens, and to see highlight key information without having to switch screens during an activity. The fēnix 5X is available with a scratch-resistant sapphire lens.

All of the new fēnix 5 models come preloaded with the full multisport toolset for running, hiking, swimming, biking and more that has made the fēnix line one of Garmin’s bestselling wearables. Whether users are on an adventure, or just in the gym, Garmin Elevate wrist heart rate technology gives users 24x7 heart rate monitoring without needing a chest strap. In addition to the wide variety of sport profiles, all three fēnix 5 models have daily activity tracking, so users can wear their fēnix as a daily timepiece and a rugged training tool. Built-in navigation features include a three-axis compass, gyroscope and barometric altimeter, as well as GPS and GLONASS support to track in more challenging environments than with GPS alone. Users can also keep their training stats right at their fingertips with a performance widget that shows training status, training load and more.

In addition to the multiport features, the fēnix 5, 5S and 5X boast a variety of connected features. When paired with a compatible smartphone, users can get call, text and email smart notifications from their wrists. All fēnix 5 models are compatible with Connect IQ so users can customise their watch with apps, widgets, data fields and watch faces. To take watch faces one step further, fēnix 5 watches are compatible with the Face It app, so users can set their favourite photo as their watch face. Sapphire models are Wi-Fi Enabled, so users can connect their watch to their home network for automatic uploads to Garmin Connect when within range.

Each of the new fēnix 5 models is water rated to 100m***, and is built to withstand the elements with a stainless steel bezel, buttons and rear case:

• The fēnix 5 can get up to two weeks of battery life in smartwatch mode and 24 hours in GPS mode. 
• The fēnix 5X can get up to 12 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and 20 hours in GPS mode. 
• The fēnix 5S can get up to eight days in smartwartch mode and up to 13 hours in GPS mode****. 

Users can also take advantage of the UltraTrac power saver mode to extend battery life even more.

Interested?

The fēnix 5, 5S and 5x will be available in Q117. The fēnix 5 and fēnix 5S will have a suggested retail price of US$599.99 in the US; while the fēnix 5 Sapphire, fēnix 5S Sapphire and fēnix 5X will have a suggested retail price of US$699.99 in the US.

Read the WorkSmart Asia blog posts about the new Garmin portable navigation devices and what's new at the Connect IQ Store

Hashtag: CES2017

*See Garmin.com/ataccuracy for more details.
 
**When paired with compatible smartphone. See Garmin.com/ble for more details.

***See Garmin.com/waterrating for more details.

****Depending on settings.

More ways to personalise Garmin wearables at the Connect IQ Store

Garmin International has announced several new apps, data fields and watch faces available for Garmin users to download from its Connect IQ Store from companies including Uber, Trek, GU and Nuun.

Connect IQ, an open platform for third-party developers to create content for Garmin wearables, bike computers and outdoor handhelds, lets users customise their Garmin device to reflect their unique personalities and needs. Since its inception just two years ago, there have been more than 20 million Connect IQ downloads to the more than 3 million compatible devices that have shipped around the world.

“Connect IQ is a pillar of the Garmin wearables strategy which is centred on purpose-built devices for consumers who want to measure and enhance their active lifestyle pursuits, whether it’s running, cycling, swimming, golfing, boating, walking or simply being more active,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin VP of worldwide sales. “Just as each Garmin user is unique, so are all of the downloads available through Connect IQ. We’re excited to launch these new apps as we continue to integrate data from brands and developers and grow the Connect IQ store to make customising your Garmin device both useful and fun.”

One of the newest applications for Connect IQ is Uber ETA. Once a user has ordered a ride from the Uber app, Uber ETA will show the estimated time of the driver’s arrival directly on the Garmin wearable. Instead of going back and forth to the phone to see the status of the ride or key information about the driver, Uber ETA lets the user keep doing whatever they need to do while keeping track of their ride’s arrival on their wrist. Uber ETA will also provide the driver’s name, make and model of the car, license plate and guidance (direction and distance) to the pickup location.

Connect IQ downloads are also available for Garmin Edge GPS bike computers, including a new data field from Trek/Bontrager. Committed to cycling safety, the Connect IQ app from Garmin and Trek/Bontrager makes it easy for cyclists to get quick access to and control of their Bontrager headlights and tail lights without leaving the Edge activity during their ride. Cyclists see the battery level of multiple lights and control the light setting for each across automatic, daylight, nighttime and more.

Other new Connect IQ applications include a GU Energy Labs data field that reminds the cyclist Garmin Edge device when it’s time to fuel with GU Energy Gels while training and racing, as well as helping the athlete keep track of how many gels they should have eaten for optimal performance. Nuun Active Hydration users now have a new custom watch face to help them keep track of their step progress.

Garmin users will also benefit from other recently-released Connect IQ applications, including a widget from JOIN for cyclists that makes it easier to take part in group rides. In addition, various data fields are also available from Xert Advanced Power Analytics, including Maximal Power Available, Time to Exhaustion/Recovery, Fat/Carb Utilization, Strain Score and more. For runners, the Stryd IQ app displays data from a Stryd foot-mounted power meter onto a Garmin wearable to help improve running efficiency and longevity.

The Strava Live Suffer Score app is also available for both Garmin bike computers and wearables, analysing how much time the user spends in different heart rate zones, and measuring total activity effort with a simple rating. Also available for both wearables and bike computers, an update to the AccuWeather Edge MinuteCast Minute-by-Minute app that provides user with the most accurate hyper-local, by-the-minute precipitation forecasts for their active lifestyle. 

Interested?

Connect IQ is available on a wide range of Garmin products across of all of the markets the company serves, and each app, widget, watch face and data field can be downloaded at no charge to the user. The Connect IQ Store can be found at apps.garmin.com or in the device tab of Garmin Connect. It can also be found in the device page of Garmin Express, or the More section of Garmin Connect Mobile

Local availability and pricing will be announced on a later date

Read the WorkSmart Asia blog posts about Garmin's versatile new multisport wearables and about Garmin's live services for its Drive models

Hashtag: #CES2017

TomTom launches fitness tracker that measures body composition

Source: TomTom. The TomTom Touch.

TomTom has launched the first fitness tracker in Singapore that combines body composition analysis with steps, sleep and all day heart-rate tracking, from the wrist.

Body composition gives wearers a good understanding of their fitness level and how it is changing over time*. Until now, this metric had only been available with dedicated scales or expensive technology. TomTom Touch now makes this measurement more accessible.

“We’re excited to give people fitness information they can really use with TomTom Touch,” said Chris Kearney, VP APAC, TomTom Consumer. “We all know that weight doesn’t tell the whole story. Two people with the same weight can have completely different levels of muscle and fat in their body. TomTom Touch gives more clarity by tracking body composition, so you can really tell whether your efforts are having any effect.”

TomTom Touch is designed to be worn 24x7 and includes the tracking of steps, sleep, all-day heartrate, calories burned, as well as a sports mode for running, cycling or hitting the gym. It connects with the smartphone for notifications.

The TomTom MySports companion mobile app lets wearers view their stats, progress and share achievements with friends. Performance statistics and graphs help to show the effect activities have on body composition over time.

Specifications
Activity measurements: Steps, active minutes, distance, calories burnt, sleep and heart rate 24x7 Battery life of up to five days
Waterproofing: IPX7 (splashproof, showerproof)
Display: OLED, 5.58 x 22.38 mm
Storage: 4MB
Power: plug/standard micro-USB charging cable
Weight 10g

Interested?

 

The TomTom Touch comes out of the box with a micro-USB charging cable and a Get Started leaflet. It is available in a range of strap colours and is available in the first week of November from selected retailers at a recommended retail price of S$239.

*http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/body-fat-measurement

posted from Bloggeroid

TomTom Touch offers body composition analysis from the wrist

TomTom has launched the first fitness tracker on the market that combines body composition analysis with steps, sleep and all-day heart rate tracking. With the push of a button, TomTom Touch can finally answer the question "Is what I’m doing, doing anything for me?"*

Body composition - the percentage of body fat and muscle mass in the body - gives a good understanding of fitness level and how it is changing over time**. This metric used to be available only with dedicated scales or expensive technology. The launch of TomTom Touch now makes it more accessible.

Said Chris Kearney, VP APAC, TomTom Consumer: “We all know that weight doesn’t tell the whole story. Two people with the same weight can have completely different levels of muscle and fat in their body. TomTom Touch gives more clarity by tracking body composition, so you can really tell whether your efforts are having any effect.”

TomTom Touch is designed to be worn 24x7 and includes functions such as tracking steps, sleep, all-day heart rate, calories burned, and sports modes for running, cycling or using the gym. It can be linked with the smartphone for notifications.

With the complementary TomTom MySports mobile app, wearers can analyse their statistics, view progress and share achievements with friends. Performance statistics and graphs make sense of the effect activities may have on body composition over time.

Additional features available in the TomTom Touch Fitness Tracker include:

- Water-resistant 

- Up to five days battery life 

- Goal setting 

- Automatic sleep tracking 

- Wireless syncing 

- Universal micro-USB charging cable 

Interested?

TomTom Touch is available from selected retailers in Singapore from October. Its customisable strap is available in a range of colours.

*Results may vary significantly and could be affected by multiple factors. Try to take the measurements at the same time of day under same conditions. 

**http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/body-fat-measurement#1 and http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/72/3/694.long 

TomTom Adventurer incorporates new dedicated sports modes

TomTom has launched the TomTom Adventurer, a GPS outdoor watch with dedicated sports modes for hiking, trail running, skiing and snowboarding. 

TomTom Adventurer is equipped with a built-in heart rate monitor, barometer, compass and automatic lift detection for snow sports. For trail runners and hikers, route exploration, elevation metrics and the added security of an extended battery life* means new mountain paths can be explored confidently. It also comes with GPS tracking and route exploration, building on TomTom’s heritage as a global leader in navigation and mapping. 

Said Chris Kearney, VP APAC, TomTom Consumer: “We believe anyone who loves the outdoors deserves to have access to high-end technology typically reserved for the extreme mountain man. Now, with TomTom Adventurer everyone can start tracking their activities whenever they are exploring new heights.” 

Along with tracking your outdoor activities, TomTom Adventurer also comes with 24x7 activity tracking and every run, swim, cycle or gym session can be tracked in dedicated sports modes. Wearers can track their pulse using the built-in heart rate monitor, and there is an integrated music player for audio entertainment.

Interested?

TomTom Adventurer will be available from late October from selected Singapore retailers.

*Available for the Hiking Sport mode only

Perfect your running technique with SHFT

Source: Red Dot. The SHFT virtual running coach.

SHFT, a Red Dot Award 2016 winner, is a virtual running coach from Denmark from SHFT.

The wearable tracks and analyses full body running data and statistics via two intelligent pods. The running data is translated into easy-to-follow and real-time coaching instructions. SHFT expects the device to help runners perfect their personal technique, reduce injuries and correct bad habits through the instructions.

The pods fit most shoes without obstructing the laces.

The Red Dot Award is one of the largest and most prestigious design awards in the world. In 2016, the award received a record 5,200 innovations from 57 nations. A jury panel of 41 international experts debated in Germany over three days to select the product designs that represent the best of design today.

Interested?

Starting 1 August 2016, the Red Dot Museum in Singapore will present a collection of products which have been named in Red Dot Award: Product Design 2016. The museum is at 28 Maxwell Road, Red Dot Traffic Building, Singapore 069120. It is open Monday to Sunday from 11am to 8pm.

Visit the online exhibition

The marketing possibilities of a programmable wearable

Source: Broadcast Wear website. Control what's on the shirt with an app.

Broadcast Wear has launched a touch-enabled programmable t-shirt, heralding new applications for marketing.

The Hyderabad-based company’s brainchild features a flexible, washable LED screen integrated into clothing that can be paired with the Broadcast Wear smartphone app to instantly display any text or design. The t shirt can be tapped once to switch the screen on, and then again to switch itself off.

The same t shirt could be used for different marketing campaigns, standing out well especially at night. “Broadcast Wear is the future of self-expression. It’s your digital canvas to communicate with the world. The microcontroller and Bluetooth chip in the programmable t-shirt connect wirelessly to your smartphone, so that the LEDs display anything you type,” said Broadcast Wear Founder Ayyappa Nagubandi.

TomTom Golfer 2 GPS Watch designed to help golfers improve

TomTom today announced the ultra-slim TomTom Golfer 2, a GPS Watch designed to help golfers improve their game by using automatic shot detection to give detailed post-round analysis.

Eliminating uncertainty by measuring distances to greens and hazards, the TomTom Golfer 2 uses automatic shot detection to help golfers understand their distance potential.  They can see distances for drives and approach shots at-a-glance and then analyse their strokes in TomTom MySports after the game. The auto scorecard tracks the score to make it easy for a golfer to see what is working in their game, and what improvements can be made.

“We know that often the best improvements simply come from knowing where you went wrong,” says Clive Millington, COO, TomTom.  “This is why we have designed such detailed post-game analysis for the TomTom Golfer 2 to show you where to improve, but also to know what you’re capable of.”

The ultimate round feature combines the best holes from a course that has been played regularly to demonstrate what a best potential round could look like. TomTom MySports post-game analysis gives insights into shot patterns and greens in regulation.  Rounds can be studied hole-by-hole.

The TomTom Golfer 2 uses graphics to easily visualise the best approach to the green, giving precise distances to front and back of the hazards on over 40K* courses worldwide.

Sleek, lightweight, water-resistant and durable for long-lasting comfort, the TomTom Golfer 2 is designed to be worn both on and off the course. It will be available in May 2016.

www.tomtom.com

Additional features include:

·         See distances to individual hazards along the fairway.

·         See remaining distances to lay-up points.

·         View unique green and hazard graphics before your shot.

·         Round tracking – Keep track of the score, distance, and time for your round.

·         Receive course updates wirelessly from your smartphone, every day.

·         Sync sessions wirelessly on the TomTom MySports app.

·         Weather and water resistant to 40M.

·         Large or small straps ensure the perfect fit.

*Calculation includes all combinations of golf courses at multi-course facilities.

posted from Bloggeroid

Epson launches new Moverio smart glasses

Epson has announced the third generation of its Moverio smart glasses for augmented reality. The Moverio BT-300 features Epson's breakthrough silicon-based organic light emitting diode (OLED) digital display technology, enabling truly transparent mobile augmented reality (AR) experiences for business and consumers.

The Moverio BT-300 is the lightest binocular see-though smart glasses announced to date, and is more than 20% lighter than the Moverio BT-200, Epson said. The glasses are powered by a quad core Intel Atom X5 processor and Android 5.1, enabling efficient rendering of complex 3D experiences. An upgraded 5 megapixel front-facing camera and onboard sensors enable the Moverio BT-300 to more precisely determine the location of objects in the real world. The Si-OLED projection system can then seamlessly render and lock 3D content to these objects, with no display background or edges in the field of view.

"The Epson Moverio BT-300 is a major leap forward in mobile AR smart eyewear, with its comfortable, lightweight form factor and amazing new display engine – and at a price comparable to smartphones," said Eric Mizufuka, Product Manager, New Ventures for Epson America. "The transition from LCD backlit projection to Si-OLED enables higher contrast levels, a wider colour gamut and true display transparency – this is a game-changing technology that will accelerate the adoption of AR glasses."

"We've built our AR ecosystem of partners and solutions over the past five years and three commercially available products - it's been a long journey and we've learned a lot.  We've incorporated these learnings into the design of the Moverio BT-300 and are confident that this device will be the standard in the AR glasses category," Mizufuka said. "In addition to pursuing new markets for our technology, we will rapidly scale in areas where we've had commercial success, including drone photography, remote support, AR training/maintenance, healthcare, retail, logistics and more."

"The Moverio BT-300 marks an impressive advance in performance for the platform, and will offer drone pilots crystal clear, transparent first person views (FPV) from the drone camera while simultaneously maintaining their line of sight with their aircraft," said Michael Perry, Director of strategic partnerships, DJI. "The Moverio smart eyewear will make flying and filming safer and help users stay in compliance with local and federal regulations. We are excited to see the incredible applications that can be built with the BT-300 and the recently relaunched DJI SDK – the possibilities truly are endless."

"Moverio is distinct from other smart glasses on the market where form often supersedes function, to the detriment of the product's usability," said Atsunari Tsuda, General Manager responsible for Moverio. "Every design decision we make is driven by consideration for the product's ultimate usage scenarios and our Si-OLED technology opens a new world for us in binocular see-though smart eyewear development. With OLED we can take advantage of reductions in power usage and weight, and improvements in response times, HD resolution, brightness and contrast. By choosing silicon rather than glass for our base wafer we achieve an even more precise pixel display."

Interested?

The Epson Moverio BT-300 will be available in late 2016 and is available for preorder at Epson.com/Moverio.

Watch the video

posted from Bloggeroid