Sony has just introduced SmartWatch 2, which is a second screen for Android smartphones. The goal is to remotely control an Android app without having to touch the smartphone. With this device, users can either look at information (on the 1.6″ 220×176 pixels display) or send simple commands to a smartphone without having to physically touch the handset. Simple examples include controlling a music track or check messages and notifications, but the possibilities are really endless. When not paired with a smartphone, SmartWatch 2 acts as a simple watch, and its trans-reflective display has been specifically designed to be readable in direct sunlight.
SmartWatch 2 is water-resistant and can be easily paired with a smartphone via NFC. The user interface has been designed to mimic Android’s, but the device itself is not an Android device but an smart accessory which is built to feature a familiar-looking interface. The body of the SmartWatch 2 is made of aluminum and the wristband can be customized. If you are wondering, this watch is compatible with non-Sony Android handset and the specs say “works with most Android handsets”, but there is no specific list. Android version 4.0 or higher will be required however.
Because of its communications and display capabilities, SmartWatch 2 will need to be charged on a regular basis via a micro-USB connector. The battery life is unknown for now, but it will be a key component of the success or failure of the whole concept. Right now, Sony predicts a battery life of 3 to 6 days depending on the usage intensity.
List of apps: SmartWatch Host Application, Call handling (answer, reject, mute, volume handling), Call log, Missed call notification , SMS/MMS, Email, Gmail, Facebook, Twitter, Music remote extension/music handling , Calendar, Weather, Runtastic, Viewfinder, New events – aggregator