"Right as Google's Wear OS is hitting its stride-now feature-rich with robust smartwatches that can go toe-to-toe with the Apple Watch-luxury watchmaker TAG Heuer has decided to ditch the operating system altogether for its latest Connected Calibre E5 smartwatch. Instead, it runs a proprietary "TAG Heuer OS" (still based on Android). But unlike many of the latest Wear OS smartwatches designed only for Android phones, this one is compatible with iPhones."
"That's likely one of the biggest reasons for the switch-up, as Google seems to have abandoned making its smartwatch platform compatible with Apple's hardware (Apple never made it easy, though this could change). It also allows the Swiss watchmaker to be less dependent on the whims of Google, but ultimately, it means TAG's smartwatch will not have access to the wealth of apps found on Google and Apple's respective platforms."
"I spent a few days with the 45-mm Calibre E5 (there's also a new 40-mm variant), and this fifth-generation smartwatch feels polished, despite the software change. It's also striking in its design, unlike any other smartwatch, with premium materials like a ceramic bezel, domed sapphire crystal, and snazzy band options. Unsurprisingly, the version I tried will cost you a punchy $2,000 when it goes on sale this month (and goes up to $2,800 for other variations), though the smaller 40-mm Calibre E5 starts at $1,800."
The Connected Calibre E5 runs a proprietary TAG Heuer OS built on Android and, unlike many Wear OS watches, is compatible with iPhones. The move reduces reliance on Google's platform but sacrifices access to the broader app ecosystems of Google and Apple. The watch is offered in 45-mm and 40-mm sizes and emphasizes luxury design with materials such as a ceramic bezel and domed sapphire crystal. The 40-mm model starts at $1,800, the 45-mm example tested costs about $2,000, and higher-spec variations reach up to $2,800. The device delivers a polished, premium-feeling smartwatch experience with limited app selection.
Read at WIRED
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