HP is entering the smart watch market with a fancy looking device. Designed by Michael Bastian, this watch doesn’t use Android Wear, but some custom software which unfortunately itsn’t rich in features. On the other hand, the newly unveiled MB Chronowing Smartwatch arguably looks better than any other such device we’ve seen to date. The fact that it doesn’t feel like smart watch helps a lot.
Smartphone connection does come included and you will be notified with mild vibrations on incoming texts, calls and emails. There’s also stop watch feature, calendar syncing, as well as the ability to control music playback from your wrist.
Unfortunately though, the MB Chronowing Smartwatch doesn’t double as a fitness tracking device and for those purposes you’ll still need a dedicated band like one of those Fitbit and Jawbone models. The battery should keep the watch going for up to 7 days.
The big screen, which realisticly renders the watch face, may be used for other things in the future. In the meantime, if HP delivers all the things you need — and you also happen to own an iPhone or an Android device running Android 4.3 or later — you can grab the HP MB Chronowing for $349. There are few different straps to choose from, including brown leather, olive nylon and black.
Of if you want something even more unique, there’s the limited-edition model (only 300 pieces will be made) in black with a sapphire glass screen and an alligator strap that will sell for $649.