It’s no secret that Fibit has been working on its codename ‘Higgs’ smartwatch since buying up Pebble. In fact, a render of the wearable already leaked back in May. This time, new renders have appeared online showed more angles of the device; along with hints of what changes might be implemented.
As seen before, the Higgs smartwatch bears a striking resemblance to the Fitbit Blaze. Nothing much is different in this aspect. That said, the renders also shows a pair of red optical sensors on the back where the heart rate sensor would be. Fitbit traditionally uses green light on its sensors, and the change in colour may indicate that infra-red is being used instead.
Aside from this minor change, the smartwatch doesn’t look like it will bring anything new to smartwatch design. It may be a good thing for those who already like Fitbit’s designs, but may struggle to grab the attention of new customers.
The company has been left playing catch up in a wearable market that is rapidly dividing itself across economic lines. Xiaomi has capitalised on low cost smartbands like the Mi Band 2 to leapfrog the competition and claim the lion’s share the market. All this without even selling any products in the traditionally lucrative US market.
On the other end of the spectrum is Apple, which has seen substantial growth by treating smartwatches as a luxury item. A move seemingly mimicked by other wearable makers who have begun partnering with premium brands to sell their devices as high tech accessories.
Fitbit’s Higgs, in comparison, feels like it’s unprepared to decided to deal with the changes in the market. The company’s products are neither cheap or luxurious enough to compete with either end of the dividing market. This year may be one of transition for the company, but it really needs to decide on which competitor to directly challenge.
[Source: Wareable]
