- HMD is reportedly developing two Wear OS smartwatches, the Rubber 1 and Rubber 1S.
- The Rubber 1 features a 1.85-inch OLED display, a 2MP camera, and a 400 mAh battery.
- The Rubber 1S has a 1.07-inch OLED display, no camera, and a 290 mAh battery.
- Both models offer heart rate and SpO2 tracking, 5 ATM waterproofing, and modern connectivity.
HMD, the company behind recent Nokia-branded smartphones and tablets, is reportedly venturing into the smartwatch market with two new devices.
According to a leak from tipster @smashx_60, shared via Notebookcheck, HMD is developing the Rubber 1 and Rubber 1S smartwatches, both powered by Google’s Wear OS. These devices could soon join the ranks of the best smartwatches available, bringing unique features like a camera on one model and robust health-tracking capabilities.
Introducing the HMD Rubber 1
The HMD Rubber 1 is shaping up to be the flagship of the duo. It boasts a 1.85-inch OLED display, delivering vibrant visuals and crisp details. The smartwatch is equipped with a 400 mAh battery, ensuring decent longevity for daily use. Health-conscious users will appreciate its heart rate and SpO2 monitoring features, which track vital signs with precision.
A standout feature is the inclusion of a 2-megapixel camera, a rarity for Wear OS smartwatches. While its exact functionality remains unclear, the camera could enable wrist-based photo and video capture, potentially without needing a paired smartphone.
Meet the HMD Rubber 1S
The HMD Rubber 1S appears to be a more compact and budget-friendly option. It features a smaller 1.07-inch OLED display and a 290 mAh battery. While it lacks the camera found on the Rubber 1, it retains essential health-tracking features like heart rate and SpO2 monitoring.
Both models support 5 ATM waterproofing, making them suitable for swimming and other water-related activities up to 50 meters deep. This level of durability suggests a sturdy build, protecting the internal components from the elements.
Shared Features and Connectivity
Both smartwatches are packed with modern connectivity options. The Rubber 1 supports Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, NFC, and an accelerometer, while the Rubber 1S uses Bluetooth 5.0 but retains Wi-Fi and accelerometer support.
Both devices charge via USB-C and are compatible with Qi wireless charging, offering flexible power options. Running on Wear OS, they promise a smooth and customizable user experience, with access to a wide range of apps and watch faces through Google’s ecosystem.
A Camera on a Smartwatch? What’s the Catch?
The inclusion of a camera on the HMD Rubber 1 is particularly intriguing. No Wear OS smartwatch has featured a camera before, raising questions about its practical applications. It could allow users to snap quick photos or record videos directly from their wrist, possibly for video calls or spontaneous moments.
However, some speculate these devices might target younger users, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Watch for Kids launched earlier this year. A camera-equipped smartwatch could appeal to parents looking for a device to keep kids connected while offering basic photography features.
Who Are These Smartwatches For?
While HMD has yet to confirm these devices, the leak suggests they could cater to a broad audience. The Rubber 1, with its larger display and camera, might appeal to tech enthusiasts seeking a feature-rich smartwatch.
The Rubber 1S, with its smaller size and lower price point, could attract budget-conscious buyers or younger users. The 5 ATM waterproofing makes both models versatile for active lifestyles, from fitness tracking to outdoor adventures.
What’s Next for HMD?
HMD’s potential entry into the smartwatch market aligns with its growing portfolio, which already includes phones, tablets, earbuds, and the HMD OffGrid. As the company expands, these smartwatches could strengthen its position in the wearable tech space.
With Wear OS 6 expected to roll out soon, HMD’s timing could be spot-on, offering users the latest software advancements. For now, we await official confirmation from HMD, but the prospect of these innovative devices has already sparked excitement.
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