Qualcomm made an impressive debut of its Toq smartwatch at a developer conference in San Diego, September 4, and has finally revealed that its wearable tech will be available for $350, starting December 2.
Qualcomm manufactures chipsets for high-end smartphones that act as the heart of the device. But its recent interest in standalone products is going to take the company in a new direction. The electronics manufacturing company announced its first smartwatch, dubbed as "Toq," equipped with "Mirasol" display at a developer's conference in San Diego, September 4, 2013.
Qualcomm announced Monday in a press statement that its first wearable tech gadget is ready to hit the stores as early as Dec. 2, for $349.99. The price is a bit on the high side compared to other companies like Samsung and Sony which have priced their smartwatches lesser. The Samsung Gear smartwatch that has been criticized for its short battery life retails for $299. Another smartwatch maker Pebble that has gained quick fame with its smartwatch, retails for $150. Comparatively, Qualcomm is placing its masterpiece above all its rivals.
"The Toq smartwatch showcases key Qualcomm innovations, such as Mirasol always on low power display, AllJoyn interactions and WiPower LE wireless charging, that will define the emerging wearable category," Dr. Paul E. Jacobs, chairman and chief executive officer of Qualcomm, said in a press release.
"Like a traditional watch, Toq displays information at a glance with no on/off switch. And paired with a smartphone to receive notifications and content, it allows the watch to seamlessly merge our physical and digital lives. Leveraging these and other industry-leading technologies, we and our partners will enable new product opportunities and consumer experiences."
The Toq smartwatch that serves as a second screen for smartphones, does not feature any physical buttons. The smartwatch has wireless charging that is as easy as "drop and go" in its case. Qualcomm guarantees the new Mirasol display technology will make the Toq last for days.
While other features like accepting and making calls, reading and sending text messages is made possible with a wireless Bluetooth headset, Toq lacks camera and other features seen in Gear or Pebbles.
Are the long-lasting battery life with new display technology and wireless charging features impressive enough for you to shell out $350?
