Leikr's big-screen GPS watch is targeted at triathletes (pictures)

This Kickstarter-funded GPS sports watch features a large, color LCD, Wi-Fi connectivity, and integration with OpenStreetMap.

Antuan Goodwin

Jan. 7, 2013 4:28 p.m. PT

Leikr's big-screen GPS watch is targeted at triathletes (pictures)

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Antuan Goodwin/CNET

Leikr's big-screen GPS watch is targeted at triathletes (pictures)

LAS VEGAS--Packing a 2-inch LCD, the Leikr is the largest-screened GPS sports watch that we've seen yet. Transflective technology means that what's on its screen remains clearly visible in direct sunlight and a backlight keeps it visible when things get dim.

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Leikr interface

The unit features buttons at its four corners that correspond to different commands. A vibration motor gives haptic notifications of successful inputs, intervals, or GPS state. The large screen offers enough space to monitor six metrics simultaneously: pace, speed, time, distance, calories, and heart rate.

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Wireless connectivity

The Leikr features a GPS antenna that is said to be sensitive enough to attain position lock in about 30 seconds. Other wireless connections include Wi-Fi for data synchronization and downloading full-color OpenStreetMap data. Bluetooth 4.0 LE and ANT+ offer connection to a variety of fitness accessories such as heart rate monitors and cycling speed/cadence sensors.

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OpenStreetMap

In addition to downloading OpenStreetMap data, users can also download routes. This is helpful for cyclists on long trips or runners who want to share favorite routes with friends.

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More changes to come

The Leikr we were able to test was a preproduction version. We were informed that there would be more tweaks and fine-tuning of the software and hardware between now and the summer 2013 release -- for example, this model is only IPX-6 water-resistant, but the final model is targeted at IPX-8 waterproof, which should possible to swim with it.