
Sony's new smartwatch doesn't look like a smartwatch. The Wena watch, which is short for "wear electronics naturally," is being shown off at the IFA trade show in Berlin. Sony is looking to fund the watch on its First Flight crowdfunding platform in Japan.
The Wena watch has a traditional face with a 22mm link bracelet. It looks quite nice on our wrist.
But isn't this a smartwatch? Yes. The smart features are actually all built into the slim band.
The band is equipped with a handful of sensors, including an NFC chip for making contactless payments. It also features an accelerometer for tracking steps, a seven-color LED for notifications, vibration alerts, and carries at water resistant rating of IPX7, so you won't have to take it off when doing the dishes or in the shower.
The face of the watch measures 42mm. That's the same size of the Huawei Watch and largest Apple Watch model.
It will come in two styles: a $287 Three Hands model and a $576 Chronograph model.
If you own a Sony phone you won't even be able to use the Wena watch. It currently only supports devices running iOS 8 or higher. Odd, right?
The band is said to last roughly a week on a single charge, however the Three Hands and Chronograph batteries will last you three and five years respectively.
Here's an example of a green notification light on the band.
Sony hopes to raise 10 million yen. That translates into a little more than $83,000 in the US and £54,000 in the UK.
The Wena will be available in silver and black models.
If funded successfully, the watch will begin shipping in March of 2016.