The problem with wearable tech is that it’s not very wearable. From bland plastic wristbands to Google Glass, most men wouldn’t be seen dead with sensors and cameras strapped to their body at the pub. But that could be about to change, judging by the tech on show at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
Everywhere you look at the year’s biggest electronics showcase, fashion and tech were getting together like never before. Intel announced a partnership with Opening Ceremony, Barneys and the CFDA. The Netatmo June is made with a design by Louis Vuitton. Then there’s Google, who has reportedly consulted with glasses maker Warby Parker, and Apple, who have recently hired former Burberry and Yves Saint Laurent CEOs amid continuing rumours about an “iWatch”. Tech isn’t just starting to look wearable; it’s even starting to look stylish.
Take the Pebble smart watch. Although the most successful kickstarter project ever, the original’s square, plasticky form factor was never going to stand up to a real, swiss-made timepiece. But earlier this month the Silicon Valley brand unveiled the Pebble Steel, a new version of the Pebble that looks much more like a genuine wristwatch. With a square face and a strap either in brushed stainless steel or matte black leather, it looks like a classic Casio.
When synced with your smartphone, the Pebble Steel lets you check texts and emails, consult fitness apps or social networking or control your music on your phone. With the upcoming Pebble App Store, you’ll even be able to play games. It’s waterproof thanks to the gorilla glass shell and has a scratch and shatter resistant lens with an anti-glare optical coating. The battery life lasts for five-seven days, and to re-charge it you can use your laptop or any USB wall charger.
Personalize your Pebble to fit your style, mood, and activities with customizable watchfaces, colours, and accessories. The e-paper display means you can read your pebble in direct sunlight while you can also use it with ease in the darkest of nights as the Pebble has a dim backlight and lights up further with a quick flick of the wrist.
It’s not going to knock that vintage GMT Master off our wish-list just yet, but as wearable tech goes, this is as good looking as they come.
$229. getpebble.com
