One of the funkiest 'fun' smartwatch ranges we've seen, from Hong-Kong based company Cogito, has just gone on sale.
Smartwatches don’t have to be Android-toting mini computers for your wrist, and there’s an emerging ‘less is more’ trend leading to some interesting hybrid devices. The Cogito range fits this description and, while its styling and design might not be for everyone, the idea behind its functionality is more universally useful.
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In addition to the analogue watch face is a digital display and, thanks to the Bluetooth Smart connectivity built in, it will pair with your phone to display information on calls, SMS and emails.
There are two models available, the business-looking Cogito Classic, which features a chunky brushed metal design, with large function buttons that nod to the likes of Bell & Ross or G-SHOCK, and the Cogito Pop, a slimmed down version aimed at younger buyers.
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The Cogito Pop expands the connectivity options to include Facebook and Twitter notification alerts, and control of your phone’s music. Its makers claim that it is water resistant to 100m - although we're not sure if that means you can dive to 100m with it on, or take a shower at 100m from sea-level. There's yet to be any fitness features added.
The Cogito’s approach to smart features follows Swatch’s announcement that it would be adding fitness-tracking features to its line-up in 2015.
As the wearable tech revolution continues to take hold, traditional watchmakers are going to be considering how their analogue watches can become smarter more and more, and the Cogito might just be the start of something big.
The range is on sale now from Cogitowatch directly. The Cogito Pop is £79.99 and the Classic retails at £129.99.
Update: Check our our full Cogito Pop review
How we test
James is the co-founder of Wareable, and he has been a technology journalist for 15 years.
He started his career at Future Publishing, James became the features editor of T3 Magazine and T3.com and was a regular contributor to TechRadar – before leaving Future Publishing to found Wareable in 2014.
James has been at the helm of Wareable since 2014 and has become one of the leading experts in wearable technologies globally. He has reviewed, tested, and covered pretty much every wearable on the market, and is passionate about the evolving industry, and wearables helping people achieve healthier and happier lives.