The Moto360 is an Android operated watch that first came out in 2014 and has continued to create interest ever since then. Its circular shape was produced by Motorola but now the third generation has been licensed out to a company called eBuyNow. It now runs WearOs and it can connect to an iPhone.
Moto360 Features
While fetching $350 USD might make it a fairly expensive option, its value is decided by the features and compatibility with other devices and of course the user. With a 42 mm (1.65 in) diameter the watch looks normal which is a huge benefit to those who don’t want to attract attention and get mugged. Powering the Moto360 is a Qualcomm Snapdragon 3100 processor. It has 1 GB RAM and is complemented by 8 GB of storage which is pretty impressive for such a small device. And of course, it has a heart rate monitor, GPS and NFC options which are obligatory at this stage for watches of this type. And just like other watches in its class, it has a 360 x 360 OLED panel. Other functions allow you to read text messages or at least be notified about them and tracking your key fitness statistics through Google Fit.
With 2 large navigation buttons mounted on the right, it is possible to access Google apps which makes it an attractive option for Android users. It is important to note that this enables it to fulfill your basic daily needs such as tracking your workouts, buying goods and sending texts. Thus if you view it as an enabling device then value can be perceived versus the cost of purchase.
Potential Problems
Users have reported some problems such as non-responsive button inputs and sudden and unexpected connection issues. It has to be understood that placing all this technology into such a small device is relatively new and issues such as these will be encountered. Within a few years, these performances will be corrected and inevitably another issue will arise. With Android having such a loyal customer base, people are just tolerating these issues at the moment.
Significant performance improvements can be seen in the doubling of the speed and memory of its predecessors. Other improvements of course included a longer-lasting battery which every other device has enjoyed over the last few years as well. But there is also better touch accuracy which makes it easier and more enjoyable to use.
Moto360 on the Market
While the latest release lacks the clean elegance of past models, more emphasis has been placed on functionality and compatibility which are key selling points for its competitors. However, due to the Moto360 being made by a partnership rather than all in-house like Apple is, there is always a feeling that the Moto360 is forever playing catch up with Apple and can never quite gain favoritism with the customers.
One thing is for sure. In the space of 6 years the Moto360 has improved dramatically after having overcome horrendous reviews regarding its first release back in September 2014. Whether it is in a position to challenge the Apple Watch remains to be seen.
