MetaWatch Strata - Value & Verdict

Value
Constructing the Strata as a peripheral rather than a 'smart watch' has allowed MetaWatch to keep the Strata's cost reasonable with prices starting from $159 (£99). This is a figure which may be high for some, but for those convinced by the concept it verges on being an impulse buy. Different colour options can raise the price to $179 (£111) while a limited edition Susan Kare designed Strata comes in at a more hefty $299 (£185). Following the Strata, a less sporty model, the 'Frame' (pictured below), will launch in the coming months for $199 with the design and reduced 3 ATM water resistance being the only differences.



The biggest challenge for MetaWatch though is it won't be alone for long. Various Android powered smartwatches are already available (even if a somewhat different concept), but the real challenge will come from the Pebble which follows the same 'smartphone accessory' approach and also went the KickStarter route, breaking records with pledges of over $10m (£6.2m)
from a $100,000 goal.

The Pebble will also launch in volume next year and it must be tempting for Apple to breathe life back into the regularly watch strapped iPod nano. Should MetaWatch, Pebble and Apple all fulfil their potential, 2013 will be the year the watch well and truly makes its comeback.



Verdict
MetaWatch is set to have some significant rivals over the next 12 months, but from what we have seen, the Strata has the potential to lead the way. Its well made, rugged and water resistant design is highly practical and - while still in beta - its software is slick and it certainly has the potential to revolutionise how you use your smartphone. With further models on the way and actual shipping products having begun to reach developers and early investors, our hopes are high that this could fire the first shot in a wrist-based revolution.