Polar Hints at New WearOS Watch in the Works
Polar watches are known for their excellent running metrics and GPS capabilities, but they have always been lacking in terms of functionality and aesthetics. However, Polar’s CEO Sander Werring recently hinted that the company’s next watch could run on Google’s WearOS operating system, which could change everything.
In an interview with Wareable, Werring said that running WearOS is “an option” and that the technology is now available. Polar’s last watch on Android’s platform, the Polar M600, was released in 2016 when the operating system was still called Android Wear. Werring believes that the M600 was ahead of its time and that the company had to do too much heavy lifting in those days because there was no reference for this type of technology on WearOS.
If Polar does release a new watch running on WearOS, it could potentially compete with devices from Apple and Samsung in the lifestyle space. Polar has already begun licensing its suite of fitness metrics to partners, such as the Google Pixel Watch, so it’s not a stretch to imagine a Polar watch running on WearOS.
While Polar watches may not offer much connected functionality outside of basic notifications, the addition of WearOS could change that. With the ability to run third-party apps, Polar watches could become serious rivals to devices from Apple and Samsung. We’ll have to wait and see what Polar has in store for us.
Casio G-Shock: The Garmin Beater We’ve Been Waiting For
Last week, Casio G-Shock announced its latest smartwatch, and it seems to be the answer to many of our prayers. The new G-Shock model boasts features that could potentially outdo even Garmin’s offerings, which have long been considered the gold standard in the smartwatch industry.
What Makes the Casio G-Shock So Special?
For starters, the G-Shock is built to last. It’s shock-resistant, water-resistant, and can withstand extreme temperatures. But what really sets it apart is its battery life. The G-Shock can last up to two years on a single charge, which is unheard of in the smartwatch world.
But that’s not all. The G-Shock also has built-in GPS, which means you can track your runs and hikes without needing to bring your phone along. And with its rugged design, you won’t have to worry about damaging it during your outdoor adventures.
What About ECG Scans?
Many of the best smartwatches, including Apple Watches, offer ECG scans, but Polar has never gone in for it. However, the G-Shock’s announcement hints that this could be the way forward to access other technologies Polar doesn’t provide at the moment, such as electrocardiogram scans, better known as ECG. Having its watches in the WearOS ecosystem would allow other developers to handle the ECG functionality, while Polar focuses on what it’s good at.
Conclusion
The Casio G-Shock is a game-changer in the smartwatch industry. Its rugged design, long battery life, and built-in GPS make it a top contender for outdoor enthusiasts. And with the potential for ECG scans in the future, it could even give Garmin a run for its money. If you’re in the market for a new smartwatch, the G-Shock is definitely worth considering.
Polar’s Advanced Running Metrics Could Make a Splash on WearOS 3.5
(Image credit: Matt Evans)
In our Google Pixel Watch review, we noted that Fitbit integration with Google could be tighter. While Fitbit’s ecosystem is well-designed, Polar’s advanced selection of running metrics is superior for regular runners.
Polar offers on-wrist running power to measure the effort exerted on a run, which Fitbit does not. Additionally, Polar offers GPS features such as Track Back, which brings users back to the start of a route, and sophisticated metrics like stride length and cadence, all of which are easily accessible without requiring an additional premium subscription.
If Polar could integrate these excellent fitness features into a truly connected WearOS smartwatch, it would be a force to be reckoned with. This would still be based on Google’s own WearOS platform, indicating that WearOS is maturing as intended.
Other companies wanting to piggyback on the success of WearOS could be a blow to Apple, as the emergence of new and improved connected devices on WearOS 3.5 would flood the smartwatch space with high-quality Google-based products, creating more choices than ever and fewer reasons for Android users to switch to Apple.
