Asus has announced a new version of its smartwatch, the ZenWatch 2. Unlike the old version it comes in two sizes, like the Apple Watch, and features a digital crown... rather like the Apple Watch.
The new watch comes in a larger 49-millimeter size, which pairs with 22-millimeter straps, and a smaller 45-millimeter version, which uses an 18-millimeter strap. The larger of the two apparently can lend its charge to your phone in the case of low power emergencies, though Asus hasn’t yet revealed how (presumably it involves a USB cable of some sort).
Asus has also announced that the watch will feature a digital crown to help navigate Android Wear. The details of exactly how that will work remain under wraps, though presumably it will allow you to scroll through content. There’s also a new magnetic charger cable, which replaces the plastic cable of old. Elsewhere, some features remains the same: there’s a an AMOLED screen covered with a piece of 2.5D Gorilla Glass 3 and a Qualcomm processor.
The new watch is available in cases with a silver, gunmetal or rose-gold finish, and a choice of rubber, soft leather or metal straps. Or a leather one dotted with Swarovski crystals, if you feel so inclined. All in, the tweaks seem to bring the watch in-line with many of Apple’s design cues. Pricing and availability are yet to be announced. [Engadget, Verge]