Google has revealed that the Asus ZenWatch will be the first smartwatch to run a custom version of Android Wear.
This means that while other wearables might use Google’s stock ROM, Asus will re-work the operating system to suit its own style.
It’s exactly the same as how Google’s Nexus 5 uses the barebones Android OS, while Samsung phones usually run TouchWiz, a modified version that sports additional features and a distinct graphical style.
Google’s VP of engineering, Hiroshi Lockheimer, told Recode that the ZenWatch will debut non-stock Android Wear for the very first time.
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There’s no telling how ‘heavy’ Asus’ skin will be. It could be a complete overhaul, or just a handful custom apps or features.
The Taiwanese firm revealed its first wearable device at the IFA tradeshow in Berlin last month.
The ZenWatch touts a 1.63-inch screen with a 320 x 320 resolution, with curved glass and a tan leather strap in tow.
Inside you’ll find 512MB of RAM, 4GB of internal storage, and a battery life of around a day.
It’s also set to revolve around the ZenUI ecosystem, and will offer up a number of features including ‘Find My Phone’ and ‘Cover To Mute’.
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
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We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
