Onyx smartwatch prototype surfaces with e-ink display

Onyx apparently has a smartwatch in the works, and though there aren't a lot of details on it at this point, a prototype has surfaced via the folks at ARMdevices. Though a smartwatch isn't notable in and of itself at this point, the prototype stands out amongst the competition because of its display: a true e-ink offering. Though the refresh speed on the prototype seems a bit too slow for everyday use, there are some obvious benefits to using an e-ink display rather than an LCD.

What we see in the video is a smartwatch with the name SOSMART on the bottom, though it appears that might not be the final name of the device. The prototype features a 1.57-inch e-ink display, which will have touch-capabilities once it is officially launched — whether the three large buttons on the side will remain once a touch screen is in place isn't known.

The smartwatch appears to have a plastic wrist band, and is available in different colors; the watch itself is featured in a couple different models, one with gold trim, as well. The unit is waterproof and features Bluetooth for connecting a smartphone. In due time it will be joined by GPS.

The back of the watch has a long charging port that is used with a magnetic charger to power the device. It runs some form of Android, it seems, and has fitness-tracking features. There's no mention of battery life, but the inclusion of an e-ink display likely means it will be able to run for fairly long periods of time on a charge. No details are known beyond that, but we'll keep you updated as more info arrives.

VIA: Liliputing