The Blocks modular smartwatch is back! The wearables pioneer has announced it’s finally ready to sell its tech pick’n’mix watch to the general public.
At the Consumer Electronics Show 2018 in Las Vegas, Blocks took the opportunity to reveal that, after several years of development and a problematic beta period, it’s ready to ship the modular smartwatch to customers, according to TechCrunch.
The Blocks smartwatch initially gained attention back in 2015, as it presented an interesting new take on smartwatches.
The idea was, and still is, that users buy the main watch face then customise the device by adding modular links to the watch strap. These modules add kit like heart rate sensors, a GPS module, extra battery, a custom smart button, and even a flashlight. Blocks also hopes to get third-party developers on-board.
The watch itself seems to be reasonably priced, starting at $259 for the main body and with the current crop of modules costing $35 a pop. Opt for all the modules and the Blocks watch hits a more pricey $469.
It’s worth noting that many smartwatches offer all the functionality Blocks’ modules are presenting, only in one device, with the Apple Watch offering a myriad of in-built features. But Blocks is positioning itself more as a device that gives user the choice of functions they want, rather than paying for redundant features.
Time will tell if Blocks can shake up the smartwatch arena, but at least the modular smartwatch is still looking likely to launch. Blocks has yet to confirm an exact launch date, however.
Related: Best smartwatches to buy
Does a modular smartwatch appeal to you or is it complicating what a smartwatch should be? Let us know on Facebook or tweet @TrustedReviews.
Editorial independence
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.
Professional conduct
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.
Editorial independence
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.
Professional conduct
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.
