Android Wear has been a little stagnate lately, feeling as if Google has moved it to the back burner. We have yet to get a Google “Pixel Watch” and Fossil, along with other actual watch brands, have largely been responsible for new models. The tech industry seems to be in a wait-and-see pattern for now (with a few exceptions). Fortunately, Skagen (part of the Fossil Group) just dropped one of the best looking Android Wear devices ever at CES 2018. Meet the Skagen Falster.
The Falster is very similar to one of the original Android Wear 2.0 devices, the LG Watch Style (below), but has a slicker, more modern design. Like the LG watch, its functionality is somewhat limited. There's no speaker for calls, no NFC for mobile payments, no LTE option, no GPS and no heart rate monitor on the back. Skagen's watch has a simple Scandinavian design inside and out, and it'll be interesting to see if style over substance resonates with consumers.
The Falster has a 42mm metal case, which is an excellent middle ground for both men and women, and single push button on the side. Pushing it will launch Google Assistant or open the app drawer. The screen itself is AMOLED and a full circle with an integrated light sensor (no flat tire). There are several custom watch faces installed with a minimal aesthetic, but more can be downloaded via the included Play Store.
Several color and strap combinations will be available, including all black with a black or brown leather strap, or rose gold or silver with a rose gold or silver mesh strap. All straps are interchangeable as well.
Not much is known about specs, other than the Falster will come with Android Wear 2.0 and a Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 2100 processor. Battery life should be good with an AMOLED screen coupled with a lack of battery heavy features, and the watch charges with a magnetic puck that attaches to the back. It will connect to either Android or iOS phones via Bluetooth (functionality will be somewhat limited on iOS), and you'll be able to see and respond to notifications, download and stream music, install apps from the Play Store and utilize Google Assistant.
The Skagen Falster will cost either $275 or $295 depending on strap material, and should be available to buy on January 25th at Skagen's website and retail stores. Best Buy and Amazon may pick them up as well.
Be sure to follow all of our CES 2018 coverage here.
Source: Digital Trends
