New Balance has just released its own smartwatch called RunIQ.
The New Balance RunIQ is the latest fitness wearable to drop in stores and the sports apparel giant is intent on providing its customers not only with premium sportswear but also with accessories that helps one stay in shape.
The New Balance RunIQ is powered by Android Wear and was mainly created as an accessory for runners, as the name implies. It can track the user's course, pace, and distance traveled. It is also capable of checking the heart rate courtesy of its optical heart rate monitor.
New Balance went with a circular design for the RunIQ which a standard yet impressive look. The 1.39-inch AMOLED touchscreen display shows the classic clock face with a trio of icons showing the heart rate monitor and other features. It comes in matte black with a gray face while the bands can be replaced with different colors.
Its other impressive features include a built-in GPS, WiFi connectivity, and water resistance. The RunIQ's 410 mAh battery allows it to last five straight hours when GPS is continuously used though it has a 24-hour battery life. Thanks to its connectivity, users can share their workouts online just by syncing with Strava. The smartwatch is powered by Intel Atom Z34XX.
The New Balance RunIQ has three physical buttons. One button launches the Run IQ app when pressed. The other lets the user control music or reset laps. The third button is the standard home button.
Wearable noted that New Balance first announced that it was foraying into the smartwatch business in 2016. After a year, it is now releasing its first smartwatch that resembles the polar M600 and the Moto 360 Sport.
The smartwatch is available for $299.99. Unfortunately, The Verge reports that the New Balance RunIQ is now sold out on Amazon though it is still available from New Balance's website.
