Misfit has confirmed its Vapor smartwatch will no longer arrive with built-in GPS.
The Android Wear watch had initially been announced with full GPS support, but the company has now backtracked.
Responding to a question on Instagram, the company said location awareness will now come via a connected smartphone. Booo!
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The news is sure to come as a blow to those eying the watch as a means to leave the smartphone at home.
“The Vapor will now offer connected GPS – you can view your distance, steps, and calories burned on your wrist when you go for a run,” the company wrote.
“Additionally, you can track your route, view step-by-step directions on a map, and collect data when your phone is paired and near you.”
Step change
This isn’t the first big change in course this year.
When the Vapor smartwatch was announced, it was set to carry its own operating system.
However, the move to Android Wear — a platform with much greater third party app support — was seen as a step forward.
Regardless, the lack of GPS support could leave the smartwatch wanting when it comes to challenging the big boys.
The watch will arrive later this summer for $200. However, it will face tough competition from Apple, Fitbit, Samsung, Withings/Nokia and a host of Android Wear challengers.
Will you be grabbing a Misfit Vapor later this year? Share your thoughts on Twitter @TrustedReviews.
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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.
