HMD Global is potentially set to enter the Wear OS arena with two groundbreaking smartwatch models, the HMD Rubber 1 and 1S. This veteran in the Android realm appears to be targeting a younger audience with an emphasis on durability and user-friendly technology.
The Innovative Design: A Squircle Display
As leaker @smashx_60 revealed, the HMD Rubber 1 boasts a 1.85-inch OLED display, possibly introducing the first ‘squircle’ design in Wear OS history. This unique shape could necessitate a significant UI overhaul by Google to fit these rounded display edges, potentially paving the way for other brands to adopt similar designs. As stated in Android Central, this innovation marks a thrilling development in smartwatch design, especially for younger users who appreciate vibrant and fun aesthetics.
Feature Set: Cameras and Health Monitoring
Both models promise thoughtful features, with the Rubber 1 likely to include a 2MP camera, NFC payments, HR and SpO2 sensors, Bluetooth 5.3, and a battery capacity of 400mAh. What sets these watches apart is their potential integration of a camera—a feature rare among smartwatches—which could open up possibilities like face authentication or video calls, albeit at modest resolutions.
A Focused Audience: Youth-Inspired Technology
The partnership between Nokia and Xplora has hinted at a shared vision of creating responsible technology for children. The HMD Rubber watches might follow this trend, potentially catering to children who are stepping into the digital world. By incorporating kid-friendly features and utilizing robust rubber materials, these watches could withstand the energetic and sometimes unpredictable nature of children’s daily activities.
The Competitive Landscape: Wear OS for Kids?
While Google’s recent efforts to introduce Wear OS versions for kids akin to the Galaxy Watch 7 with specialized apps show a burgeoning segment, HMD’s moves could further establish smartwatches as an attractive option for tech-savvy youth. This shift aligns with a broader trend of electronics designed specifically for younger users, emphasizing safety, user-friendliness, and interaction.
A New Era of Smartwatches?
This potential launch represents an exciting juncture in the smartwatch market. Whether HMD Global can capture the imagination of young users with these feature-rich yet playful devices remains to be seen. As the landscape evolves, the industry will closely watch how the Rubber series fares, particularly regarding price points and reception among the intended audience.
This adventurous leap into wearable technology could set new standards and inspire other manufacturers to reconsider their approaches to youth-oriented smart devices.