Just two short weeks after the landmark Apple Watch announcement, Gucci has announced it will enter the smartwatch business in partnership with musician and entrepreneur Will.i.am.
The device, announced at Baselworld last week, will operate as a completely standalone ‘smartband’, meaning it will not simply tether to a smartphone. Functions include the ability to make and receive phone calls, send and receive text messages and emails, music, maps, calendar, fitness and a sophisticated ‘personal assistant’ that sounds rather similar to Siri.
Pricing and other details are yet to be announced but Stéphane Linder, president and CEO of Gucci Timepieces explained that the company is “fully embracing the future of wearable technology that is now ahead of us”.
She went on to say: “With the objective of launching a wearable device concept that is a fashion accessory, incorporating the most comprehensive and advanced technological functionalities.”
Will.i.am added that he has coined the term “fashionology” – a nifty portmanteau that represents the collaboration of fashion and technology.