Sony launches SmartWatch 2, a 'second screen' for Android smartphones

Sony has officially launched SmartWatch 2, the successor to its SmartWatch.

Sony SmartWatch 2 comes with a bigger 1.6-inch screen with higher resolution 220x176 pixels resolution, compared to the 1.3-inch screen 128x128 display on its predecessor. Sony is positioning the watch as a second-screen for your Android smartphones, letting you receive notifications from the phone as well as control its functionality.

SmartWatch 2 makes it possible to access notifications from your wrist such as messages, calls, email, Facebook or Twitter, Calendar, or use it as a remote for your Walkman or other digital media player. The SmartWatch 2 comes with a bunch of pre-installed apps, with an option to load other apps as well.

Other things you can do with the SmartWatch 2 include:

• Take a photo remotely from your SmartWatch, using a smart camera app.
• Control your presentations remotely using Presentation Pal.
• Taking a run or on the bike? Select a mapping app on SmartWatch to check your route with a quick glance at your wrist.
• Read previously downloaded e-mails when not connected to your phone.
• Use lifestyle apps like Runtastic to map and instantly track your fitness activities on the go.
• Quickly adjust the tracks and volume on your music player.

Sony SmartWatch 2 comes with NFC connectivity and can be charged via a standard Micro-USB cable. It is water-resistant (IP57) and users can customise it by using any standard 24mm strap.

Sony has fired the first salvo in what is expected to be the year of the smart watch, with companies like Apple, Google, Samsung, Microsoft, and LG, all said to be working on bringing their own smart watch-like devices to the market.

Sony SmartWatch 2 is expected to be available 'worldwide' this September, with no word yet on pricing.

Sony SmartWatch 2 technical specifications

• Works as an NFC watch with all smartphones using Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) and later
• Battery time - Low usage 7 days, Normal usage, 3-4 days (Watch always on)
• Bluetooth 3.0
• Android release: 4.0 and later
• Charging with micro USB
• Transflective LCD 1.6", pixels: 220x176
• Languages: English master, Chinese (Trad), Danish, Dutch, English, French, German, Greek, Japanese, Portuguese, Czech, Russian, Polish, Spanish & Swedish.
• Apps/plugins ready-to-go: App recommender, Facebook, Twitter, SMS, MMS, Missed call notification, Calendar notification, Email, Google+, New events - aggregator, Missed call, RSS, Gmail, Viewfinder (remote camera shutter), Phonebook, Music player, Find phone, Call log, Weather, Time, date.