True wearable technology trends: Michael Kors unveils pictures of its Android Wear smartwatches
Anna Wintour once made the shortest speech ever for receiving a Webby's Award for Vogue.com, famously saying "sometimes, geeks can be chic". And now luxury fashion brand Michael Kors has proven her words -- as always -- are true, joining the wearables technology market with its new Michael Kors ACCESS display smartwatch, to be released later this year.
The new technology accessories line, which runs on the Android Wear platform, offers two designs -- a gold-plated design for women in true Michael Kors fashion, and a sporty black model for men.
The watch, compatible with both iPhones and android phones due to a partnership with Google, aims to combine fashion with leading edge technology.
“I’m in the business of making people’s lives easier through fashion,” said Michael Kors.
“Technology is impacting life more and more. It should reflect your personal taste as much as anything else, but it should also give you access to all the experiences you want.”
The smartwatches will offer customised features including leather and silicone bands, display faces which change when swiped, social media updates, text and email alerts, built in fitness tracking and voice-activated Google.
“We know [users are] busy and need to be connected. We’re now offering them a smartwatch that lets them have access to a world of glamour, escape and adventure,” John D. Idol, CEO and Chairman said.
The smartwatch will be priced at US$395 (AU$515) and available in stores late this year.
Michael Kors recorded a strong revenue growth of 6.3 percent in the third quarter last year, with Idol attributing this to their accessories and footwear categories.