Sony Corp. has launched its SmartWatch first seen at the Consumer Electronics Show back in January. The wristwatch is powered by Google's Android software and connects to the user's Android smartphone using Bluetooth technology.

The high-tech watch allows users to read text messages, receive Twitter or Facebook updates, control music and even tell time. The SmartWatch can switch from displaying time to a touchscreen interface to receive smartphone information. Interested users can get it online or at any Sony store for US$150.

"SmartWatch provides access to live content and entertainment on the go,'' Sony Mobile Communications customer unit president Paul Hamnett, said. "It's the first in a series of gadgets to expand the smartphone's reach.''

The SmartWatch is primarily aimed for people who don't want to continuously check their smartphones for updates or text messages. With the Sony SmartWatch busy users won't have to pull their smartphones from their bags. The small 1.3 inch screen can signal incoming calls, e-mail or text messages and social media updates. Users can also download additional mini-applications at the Google Play online shop.

The SmartWatch won't win any awards for fashion as the device's strap is just rubber and only comes in several colors like white, pink, mint and blue. Sony also said the SmartWatch can run for four days on a single charge and is both dust and splash proof.

Sony isn't the only company interested in smart watches. iOS users can look forward to the Pebble, which just received $1.17 million in pledges on Kickstarter. Fossil also has a smartwatch with technology from Metawatch. Apple's own