Designer Michael Kors has released a new smartwatch, known as Access.
The device is now available online and in stores, according to the company website. The his and hers wearables were first introduced in March, and are the first devices in a range of technology accessories.
$350 smartwatch features changing faces
“Our customers love fashion and they’re plugged in 24/7,” Kors said in a statement. “I think they’ll appreciate having social connectivity and health and fitness tracking all within a great-looking accessory.”
The Access smartwatch starts at $350 and runs Google’s Android Wear OS. It will be able to sync with iOS or Android smartphones.
“Michael Kors Access and Android Wear move the wearables category forward with smart, beautiful watches that help you stay on top of your daily life while expressing your personal style,” said David Singleton, vice president of engineering for Google’s wearable OS.
Big Michael Kors smartwatch is fashion forward
The gold version of the smartwatch is marketed at women, while the black version is made for men. They are customizable and can handle social media updates, text and email alerts, fitness tracking, app notifications and voice activation. You can change the look of the face of the watch with a simple swipe, making it fitting for many different occasions.
“We’re excited to offer our customers smart, great-looking watches that will help them to stay on top of their daily lives while uniquely expressing their personal style,” said John Idol, Michael Kors CEO.
Michael Kors is one of many Fossil Group brands such as Chaps, Skagen and Diesel which plan to release 100 new products in 40 countries before holiday season.
At first glance the Access is very large and will be a statement item on anyone’s wrist. The same can be said of the Samsung Gear S3, a rival smartwatch which also has a massive form factor.
While this may not be to everyone’s taste, it is undeniably the fashion of the moment. The Access looks more like a luxury timepiece with smartwatch capabilities, rather than a wearable device made to look like a normal watch. It won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but it could inspire more people to get on board the smartwatch train.
