Google has revealed that the Asus ZenWatch will be the first smartwatch to run a custom version of Android Wear.
This means that while other wearables might use Google’s stock ROM, Asus will re-work the operating system to suit its own style.
It’s exactly the same as how Google’s Nexus 5 uses the barebones Android OS, while Samsung phones usually run TouchWiz, a modified version that sports additional features and a distinct graphical style.
Google’s VP of engineering, Hiroshi Lockheimer, told Recode that the ZenWatch will debut non-stock Android Wear for the very first time.
“It’s not some Google-way-or-the-highway kind of thing,” says Lockheimer.
There’s no telling how ‘heavy’ Asus’ skin will be. It could be a complete overhaul, or just a handful custom apps or features.
The Taiwanese firm revealed its first wearable device at the IFA tradeshow in Berlin last month.
The ZenWatch touts a 1.63-inch screen with a 320 x 320 resolution, with curved glass and a tan leather strap in tow.
Inside you’ll find 512MB of RAM, 4GB of internal storage, and a battery life of around a day.
It’s also set to revolve around the ZenUI ecosystem, and will offer up a number of features including ‘Find My Phone’ and ‘Cover To Mute’.
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