For quite a while now, smartwatches have been nothing but just another set of wrist watches sporting a touch-sensitive display with the ability to display notifications. One would imagine that a smartphone could do the same and so much more which places them almost exactly in the same category as a computer. Neptune attempts to break that fine line between smartphones and smartwatches with its all new concept, Neptune Duo.
As the name might suggest, the package comprises a smartwatch as well as a smartphone. Interestingly, it’s the Neptune Hub smartwatch that is the lead performer here with a smartphone merely functioning as a complementary interface with a few features. It’s clear that the company wishes to revolutionize the smartwatch technology while addressing issues of small display on devices that might be holding back potential buyers.
The Hub, sporting a 2.4-inch curved touchscreen display, resembles a bangle that is wrapped around one’s wrist. The device is powered by a Quad core CPU that runs a customized version of Android 5.0 Lollipop. Moreover, it comes with a number of interesting connectivity options in WiFi, Bluetooth, LTE, NFC and GPS. Calling, texting and browsing are all supported with this new smartwatch.
A number of other interesting features have been added to the mix in order to make sure that small screen doesn’t hamper user experience, for instance, handwriting support for times when users find it inconvenient to type text. 64GB of storage should accommodate a good amount of content whereas 1000mAh battery promises to last quite a while on normal use.
When it’s time to watch a movie, for instance, you can switch to the 5-inch display of the smartphone that sports 720p resolution. It doesn’t break any ground with the average resolution choice by today’s standards but it still suffices.
Moreover, you can take pictures with the 8-megapixel camera on the back or even squeeze in a few selfies using the 2-megapixel front-facing snapper if that’s your thing. The 2,800mAh battery is said to last a few days before it needs to be recharged.
Neptune Duo will set you back by $798 when it becomes available later this year. However, the company is offering users the chance to save money by pledging a specific amount before its official release. Users may even reserve one free of any charges by visiting the official website. The three options to pledge and save include:
- Pledge $49 now – save $100; pay $649 at shipment
- Pledge $199 – save $200; pay $399 at shipment
- Pledge $498 – save $300; pay $0 at shipment
