Last year, Qualcomm released the Toq smartwatch. Even though it wasn’t the most consumer friendly product, it functioned more like a proof of concept that showcased some of Qualcomm"s advanced proprietary technologies. Perhaps, what stood out most from the wearable, was its unique Mirasol display. The Mirasol display is a full color panel that is easy to read in sunlight and requires a fraction of the battery power of traditional LCD’s. Best of all, the display allows the device to stay powered on for up to five days on a single charge.
Almost a year later, it looks like Qualcomm was able to catch the attention of Timex, as they prepare to release a new fitness smartwatch that comes from the same mold as the Toq. The Timex IRONMAN ONE GPS+ is an all-in-one fitness device that does not require a mobile phone to operate. Unlike traditional wearables that work in tandem with a smartphone, the IRONMAN ONE GPS+ works as a standalone unit thanks to an integrated cellular chip that can provide data connectivity.
The Timex IRONMAN ONE GPS+ features:
- 1.5" 288 x 192 pixel Mirasol display
- 4GB of internal storage
- GPS and water resistance up to 50 meters
- Music player
- Bluetooth
- Standby time of 72 hours | Eight hours of battery life with GPS and Cellular connected / Four hours of battery life with GPS, cellular, and music player in use
- One year of AT&T data service is included
Although it might not be a smartphone replacement, the device will reduce bulk and still allow the user to maintain connectivity. The Timex IRONMAN ONE GPS+ will be available in the fall for $399.95 USD.
For those of you who have been on this planet for more than 20 years, you will likely remember the Datalink, which was the company"s first smartwatch.