HP’s smart platform will soon power popular watch brands such as Coach, Hugo Boss and Tommy Hilfiger. On Wednesday, HP announced a collaboration with the the Movado Group, which controls a host of other popular brands, to create smarter products with seamless, personalized options.
The Boss Classic Smartwatch (credit: HP)
The partnership with see the Engineered by HP smart platform on Movoado’s portfolio that also includes Juicy Couture and Scuderia Ferrari. HP’s technology, hardware and software will blend in with the design and craftsmanship of Movado’s analog watches.
“Customers want smart accessories that make everyday tasks easier and allow them to stay connected without forcing them to compromise on style,” said Bill Geiser, Head of Wearables at HP Inc.
Geiser notes that the idea is to enable top fashion labels to maintain their brand’s design aesthetic, while still providing the digital elements of a smartwatch.
The new smartwatches with Engineered by HP label will be available in a range of styles. For now, they include Boss Classic Smartwatch, Coach Bleecker Smart, Juicy Couture Connect, Scuderia Ferrari Ultraveloce and Tommy Hilfiger TH24/7.
On the technical side, the smartwatches will be supported by both iOS and Android smartphones. The water-resistant watches is powered by a five-day battery life. The analog movements are powered by a separate battery.
The OLED displays connect with the smartphone app to alert wearers instantly on notifications of incoming calls, texts, emails and social media updates. Through the companion app, wearers can customize the settings and set what notifications they want to receive from their smartphone.