Asus ZenWatch 3 Specs, Release Date and Rumors: Android Smartwatch to Come in September with Circular Display and Android Wear 2.0

Aug 11, 2016 09:43 AM EDT

Asus is now gearing up to release its new Android smartwatch in September. The successor of ZenWatch 2 is said to have a circular display, stainless steel frame and Google's latest Android Wear 2.0. Now, here's what is currently known about Asus ZenWatch 3 release date, specs and rumors on the web.

ZenWatch 3 was recently spotted at the website of Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Some of the items that are listed in the documents are smartwatch's model number (WI503Q), charging input (5V/2A) and FCC ID (MSQW1503Q). By looking at the charging input data, it seems that the smartwatch would not have a wireless charging technology, something that fans are hoping for.

Furthermore, there's an entry that writes ZenWatch 3 sports stainless steel body. Tech experts say the material will strengthen the device to make it more durable. Also, the wearable reportedly have "customized keys," meaning it might have more than one button for added functionality.

Regarding design, the forthcoming ZenWatch 3 strays away from the last two ZenWatch models. The first and second models have rectangular displays and metallic frames with rounded corners. Both watches have a unique look, but ZenWatch 3's circular display provides a sleek and classic appearance.

Some of the today's smartwatches that have rounded display are the Moto 360, Gear S2 and Watch Urbane.

Interestingly, the round form factor of the ZenWatch 3 is a hint that the wearable is compatible to Android Wear 2.0. Google reportedly designed the smartwatch OS for round displays because of its circular UI. According to Tech Radar, one of the biggest features of Android Wear 2.0 is the standalone apps. This feature makes smartwatches more independent from phones.

Asus announced the ZenWatch 2 about a year ago at IFA 2015. We expect the company will do the same for the ZenWatch 3. This year's IFA conference will take place in Berlin. The next-generation Asus ZenWatch would be priced around $150.

A recent study from International Data Corporation (IDC) reveals smartwatch makers shipped 3.5 million devices in the second quarter of 2016, a precedent 32% year-over-year smartwatch sales decline. With the forthcoming launching of Samsung Gear S3, Apple Watch 2 and ZenWatch 3, business leaders hope this year's smartwatch sales will be huge.

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