New Balance has launched a new “Digital Division” that will focus on creating products to improve and help athletes.
The first product from the division will be an Android Wear-based smartwatch which will track runners through GPS and offer them the ability to listen to music without the need for a smartphone.
Unfortunately, that’s about all we know when it comes to the new smartwatch, except that it will launch for the 2016 holiday season.
The digital division of New Balance is being created in partnership with Intel, with New Balance CEO Rob DeMartini and Intel CEO Brian Krzanich taking to the stage at CES to announce that the two companies have joined forces. In addition to devices like the smartwatch, the Digital Sport division will initially focus on embedded technology, such as intelligent sensors integrated into New Balance footwear and apparel, and performance sport, including a micro-fob that senses, analyzes and provides feedback on the athlete’s performance.
It certainly makes sense that the two companies would want to work together. Wearable devices are set to be a big focus for Intel over the next few years, especially with the creation of Curie, a tiny computer that can be used in everything from bags to shoes.
Only time will tell what comes of the partnership between the two companies, although we’ll have to wait almost a year to see the first products come along.
[“source-techtimes”]